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Microchip Technology MPL360BT-I/SCB
- Part No.:
- MPL360BT-I/SCB
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Telecom
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MPL360BT-I/SCB.pdf
- Description:
- IC TELECOM INTERFACE 48QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,498
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Product details
Overview
MPL360BT-I/SCB from Microchip Technology is a programmable narrow-band Power Line Communication (PLC) transceiver IC designed for G3-PLC® and PRIME protocol compliance in smart metering and IoT energy systems. It integrates ARM Cortex-M7 core (216 MHz), 192 kB SRAM, AES-128/192/256 cryptographic engine, and dual transmission branches supporting up to 500 kHz signal bandwidth - deployed in utility-grade smart grid endpoints requiring FCC, CENELEC EN50065, and ARIB regulatory conformance.
For engineers reviewing the MPL360BT-I/SCB datasheet, MPL360BT-I/SCB pinout, MPL360BT-I/SCB application, or MPL360BT-I/SCB equivalent, key selection criteria include its SPI-controlled host interface, zero-crossing detection (VZC), AGC-enabled analog front-end, dual TXRX coupling control, and QFN-48/TQFP-48 package compatibility with industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C).
Technical Context
The MPL360BT-I/SCB implements a dedicated PLC signal processing architecture combining an ARM Cortex-M7 CPU with co-processors and hardware accelerators optimized for narrow-band digital PLC tasks including modulation/demodulation, channel estimation, and FEC decoding. Its analog front-end includes PGA with automatic gain control, 12-bit ADC, DAC, and transmission driver supporting direct line driving or external Class-D amplifier interfacing.
System-level control is achieved via 4-line SPI (NPCS0/SPCK/MOSI/MISO), supplemented by NRST for reset, LDO ENABLE for internal regulator control, and VZC for mains phase synchronization. Twelve multiplexed GPIOs (PA0–PA12) support configurable peripheral functions including SWD debug, PWM, UART, and protocol-specific interrupt signaling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M7 @ 216 MHz - enables real-time PLC protocol stack execution and firmware updates without external host processor dependency. |
| Memory | 192 kB SRAM (code + data) - sufficient for full G3-PLC® or PRIME protocol stacks plus application layer logic in embedded endpoint designs. |
| PLC Bandwidth | Up to 500 kHz - supports CENELEC A/B/C/D, FCC Part 15, ARIB STD-T108, and KN60 frequency bands for global smart meter deployment. |
| Cryptographic Engine | AES-128/192/256 with secure boot (CMAC auth + CBC decryption) - ensures firmware integrity and prevents unauthorized firmware loading in field-deployed meters. |
| Analog Front-End | PGA + ADC + DAC + dual TXRX control - enables adaptive signal conditioning and flexible coupling circuit design for both isolated and non-isolated PLC interfaces. |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C - qualified for outdoor utility meter enclosures and industrial power distribution environments. |
| Supply Voltages | VDDIO/VDDIN = 3.3 V ±10%; VDDCORE = 1.25 V (internal LDO); VDDIN_AN = 3.3 V - requires decoupling per DS70005364C-page 16 for stable PLC signal integrity. |
Pinout & Package
Available in 48-lead QFN (0.4 mm pitch) and TQFP (0.5 mm pitch) packages, both RoHS-compliant and rated for -40°C to +85°C operation. Pin mapping is identical between packages per DS70005364C-page 9–12.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| NRST | Active-low system reset input | Drives full chip reset including CPU, peripherals, and memory subsystems; asynchronous to clock domain. |
| NPCS0 / PA6 | SPI chip select / GPIO | Selects MPL360BT-I/SCB on shared SPI bus; configurable as general-purpose I/O when SPI inactive. |
| SPCK / PA7 | SPI clock input | Master-generated clock synchronizing all SPI transfers; supports up to 25 MHz operation per DS70005364C-page 27. |
| MOSI / PA8 | SPI data input | Receives configuration registers, firmware blocks, and command packets from host microcontroller. |
| MISO / PA9 | SPI data output | Transmits status flags, received PLC frame payloads, and diagnostic data back to host controller. |
| EMIT[0:3] | PLC transmission outputs | Four tri-state digital outputs driving external coupling circuitry; support simultaneous multi-branch transmission for diversity gain. |
| VIN | PLC analog receive input | Differential-capable input for digitizing coupled PLC signals; referenced to VDDIN_AN and AGND for noise immunity. |
| AGC | Digital AGC control output | Tri-states external attenuation circuitry to prevent ADC saturation during high-amplitude PLC burst reception. |
| VZC / PA12 | Mains zero-cross detection input | Enables time-synchronized PLC transmission at optimal voltage phase points to minimize EMI and improve coupling efficiency. |
| TXRX0 / PA10 TXRX1 / PA11 |
Analog front-end coupling control | Configure external filter impedance matching and transmission/reception path switching; polarity invertible in software. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable PLC modem architecture | Supports G3-PLC®, PRIME, and custom narrow-band protocols via firmware load - eliminates hardware redesign for regional standard updates. |
| Dual independent transmission branches | EMIT[0:3] + TXRX0/TXRX1 enable spatial or frequency diversity transmission - improves reliability in noisy or attenuated power line channels. |
| Integrated cryptographic security | AES-128 CMAC authentication + AES-128 CBC decryption with fuse-programmable keys - prevents cloning and ensures OTA firmware update authenticity. |
| Zero-crossing synchronized timing | VZC input allows precise alignment of PLC symbol transmission to AC mains phase - reduces harmonic injection and improves spectral efficiency. |
| Low-power operational modes | Configurable sleep states with wake-on-event (e.g., carrier detect, SPI activity) - extends battery life in portable or backup-powered smart grid sensors. |
Applications
| Smart Electricity Metering | Gas/Water Smart Metering |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Two-way communication between utility head-end and residential electricity meters over existing LV power lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary PLC transceiver handling physical layer modulation, MAC-layer framing, and secure payload encryption/decryption. Use Value: Enables CENELEC EN50065-compliant G3-PLC® operation at 169 kHz band with 20 dBm output power and <1% BER under 40 dB channel attenuation. |
Use Scenario: Remote reading and valve control for battery-powered gas/water meters using low-duty-cycle PLC bursts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power PLC modem with wake-on-carrier-detect and VZC-triggered transmission scheduling. Use Value: Achieves >10-year battery life via programmable sleep modes and efficient 32-bit Cortex-M7 execution of lightweight PRIME v1.4 stack. |
| Streetlight Control Network | EV Charging Station Management |
|
Use Scenario: Centralized monitoring and dimming control of LED streetlights across municipal grids using PLC backbone. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust PLC node with dual TXRX paths for redundant channel access and AGC-adapted reception in high-noise transformer zones. Use Value: Maintains >99.5% packet delivery rate in 500-node mesh networks operating under 60 dB conducted noise per EN50065-1. |
Use Scenario: Secure OCPP-over-PLC communication between EVSE and grid operator for load balancing and tariff negotiation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cryptographically hardened PLC interface enforcing AES-256 session keys and firmware signature validation. Use Value: Meets IEC 62056-21 and ISO 15118-2 security requirements for bidirectional energy transaction integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PLC transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST7580 | ARM Cortex-M0+ core (48 MHz), no integrated crypto engine, single TX branch, 128 kB Flash + 16 kB RAM | Limited to legacy PRIME v1.3; lacks G3-PLC® acceleration hardware and secure boot capability | Lower-cost option for non-security-critical deployments where firmware updates occur only via physical access. |
| AR7400 | Dual-core (ARM9 + DSP), 256 MB DDR, Linux-ready, external PHY required, no integrated AGC or VZC | Requires companion analog front-end and external security IC; targets gateway-class nodes, not endpoint meters | Appropriate for concentrator or data collector roles where full protocol stack offload and Ethernet/Wi-Fi bridging are needed. |
Compared with ST7580 and AR7400, the MPL360BT-I/SCB delivers higher protocol flexibility through firmware-upgradable narrow-band PLC support, built-in cryptographic enforcement for remote firmware updates, and integrated analog front-end controls (VZC, AGC, TXRX) that reduce BOM count and layout complexity in endpoint meter designs.
Availability
MPL360BT-I/SCB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, utility IoT infrastructure, streetlight control, EV charging station communication, and industrial energy monitoring requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MPL360BT-I/SCB includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and IoT markets.
The MPL360BT-I/SCB belongs to Microchip's PL360 family of programmable PLC modems, engineered specifically for regulatory-compliant, secure, and interoperable smart energy infrastructure deployments across global utility standards.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the MPL360BT-I/SCB in a smart meter design?
The MPL360BT-I/SCB serves as the complete narrow-band PLC physical and link-layer transceiver, executing G3-PLC® or PRIME protocol stacks while managing analog front-end coupling, cryptographic security, and zero-crossing synchronized transmission. In a smart meter, the MPL360BT-I/SCB handles all PLC communication duties - eliminating need for external DSP or security ICs - and interfaces directly to the host MCU via SPI for application-layer coordination.
Does the MPL360BT-I/SCB require an external crystal oscillator?
Yes, the MPL360BT-I/SCB requires a 24 MHz external crystal connected to XIN/XOUT pins for system clock generation, as specified in DS70005364C-page 41. This crystal drives the internal PLL to generate the 216 MHz CPU clock and other timing domains. No internal RC oscillator is provided for primary clocking; the crystal is mandatory for compliant operation.
How does the AGC pin on the MPL360BT-I/SCB improve PLC reception reliability?
The AGC pin on the MPL360BT-I/SCB is a digital output that dynamically enables external attenuation circuitry when high-amplitude PLC signals risk saturating the internal ADC. By preventing clipping and distortion during burst-mode reception in noisy power line environments, the AGC function maintains consistent SNR and bit error rate performance - directly contributing to reliable frame recovery under variable channel conditions.
Can the MPL360BT-I/SCB operate without an external host microcontroller?
No - the MPL360BT-I/SCB is designed as a co-processor modem and requires an external host microcontroller to load protocol firmware, configure registers, manage SPI transactions, and handle application-layer logic. The host initiates boot via NPCS0/SPCK/MOSI/MISO and uses PA10/PA11 (TXRX0/TXRX1) and VZC for real-time coupling and timing coordination. Standalone operation is not supported.
What package variants are offered for the MPL360BT-I/SCB, and are they pin-compatible?
The MPL360BT-I/SCB is offered in both 48-lead QFN and 48-lead TQFP packages, with identical pin numbering, signal assignment, and electrical characteristics per DS70005364C-page 9–12. These packages are mechanically distinct but electrically and functionally pin-compatible - enabling layout reuse across cost-sensitive (QFN) and rework-friendly (TQFP) production scenarios without schematic or firmware changes.
MPL360BT-I/SCB Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Power Line Communication Modem (PLC)
- Interface:
- SPI
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-QFN (6x6)
MPL360BT-I/SCB FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPL360BT-I/SCB through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPL360BT-I/SCB on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MPL360BT-I/SCB reliable?
The price and inventory of MPL360BT-I/SCB are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPL360BT-I/SCB is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPL360BT-I/SCB?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPL360BT-I/SCB transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPL360BT-I/SCB?
MPL360BT-I/SCB orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPL360BT-I/SCB order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MPL360BT-I/SCB?
For technical support, including MPL360BT-I/SCB datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPL360BT-I/SCB requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPL360BT-I/SCB is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPL360BT-I/SCB products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MPL360BT-I/SCB meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPL360BT-I/SCB?
All MPL360BT-I/SCB units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPL360BT-I/SCB, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MPL360BT-I/SCB part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPL360BT-I/SCB:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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