Summary of PIC10 TB085 HDL Sample using PIC10F206 with Proteus Simulation
Summary: This PIC10 TB085 HDL Sample uses a PIC10F206 to generate 250 kHz control pulses for an MCP1630 DC/DC controller. Firmware implements software soft start, undervoltage lockout via the internal comparator, over-temperature shutdown, and auto-restart. Simulated in Proteus VSM, the minimal-pin design demonstrates protection handling and pulse generation for power-supply applications and learning embedded power control techniques.
Parts used in the PIC10 TB085 HDL Sample:
- PIC10F206 microcontroller
- MCP1630 DC/DC controller
- Inductor (24 µH)
- MOSFET IRLML2502
- Schottky diode
- Resistors (feedback, timing, filtering)
- Capacitors (feedback, timing, filtering)
- Temperature sensor (digital output)
- Linear regulator for Vdd (+2.5 to 5.5 V)
- Proteus VSM simulation environment (for simulation)
Introduction
This PIC10 TB085 HDL Sample is a compact yet powerful microcontroller project designed to generate high-frequency control pulses for a DC/DC power supply. Built around the PIC10F206, the project demonstrates how minimal hardware and firmware can implement advanced features like soft start, undervoltage lockout, and over-temperature shutdown.
Simulated entirely in Proteus, this project is ideal for learning embedded systems, practical electronics, and firmware-driven power control techniques. It serves as a solid reference design for engineers working with small PIC devices and switch-mode power supplies.
How the Project Works (Overview)
The PIC10F206 acts as a pulse generator for the MCP1630 DC/DC controller. It produces a 250 kHz switching signal on one of its GPIO pins. During startup, the firmware gradually increases pulse activity using a soft-start algorithm, preventing inrush current.
The microcontroller continuously monitors supply voltage and temperature inputs. If undervoltage or overheating is detected, pulse generation stops automatically and restarts only when conditions return to normal.
Block Diagram / Workflow Explanation
Power-up Initialization
GPIO configured
Comparator enabled
Watchdog timer set
Voltage Check
Comparator verifies scaled input voltage on GP0
Low voltage prevents startup
Soft Start Sequence
Pulse table gradually ramps duty over ~5 ms
Ensures smooth DC/DC startup
Normal Operation
Continuous 250 kHz pulse output on GP2
Watchdog serviced regularly
Protection Handling
Undervoltage → pulses disabled
Over-temperature → pulses disabled
Auto-restart with soft start
Key Features
Software-based soft start control
250 kHz pulse generator for MCP1630
Undervoltage lockout using internal comparator
Over-temperature shutdown via digital sensor input
Active-low external shutdown using MCLR
Fully simulated in Proteus VSM
Extremely low pin-count design using PIC10 family
Components Used
PIC10F206 microcontroller
MCP1630 DC/DC controller
Inductor (24 µH)
MOSFET (IRLML2502)
Schottky diode
Resistors and capacitors (feedback, timing, filtering)
Temperature sensor (digital output)
Proteus VSM simulation environment
Applications
DC/DC power supply controllers
Embedded power management systems
Battery-powered electronics
Educational PIC microcontroller projects
Soft-start and protection logic demonstrations
Explanation of the Code (High-Level)
The firmware is written in MPASM and optimized for the PIC10F206. It uses GPIO bit-toggling to generate high-speed pulses instead of hardware PWM.
Initialization Section
Configures GPIO direction, comparator, watchdog timer, and clears registers.Soft Start Routine
A pulse table progressively increases the number of pulses per cycle, smoothly ramping output power.Main Pulse Loop
Continuously generates pulses while monitoring voltage and temperature inputs.Protection Routines
Separate handlers manage undervoltage and over-temperature events, safely shutting down and restarting the system.
Source Code
Name Function *
;* 1 GP0 externally scaled supply voltage *
;* 2 Vss Ground *
;* 3 GP1 digital output of temperature sensor *
;* 4 GP2 250 kHz output for MCP1630 *
;* 5 Vdd +2.5 to 5.5 Volts Power Supply (linear regulator) *
;* 6 GP3 MCLR input for !Shutdown control Proteus Simulation
In Proteus, the PIC10F206 generates a clean 250 kHz pulse train on GP2, driving the MCP1630 controller. During startup, the output voltage ramps smoothly due to the software soft start. When undervoltage or temperature faults are injected, the simulation clearly shows pulse shutdown and controlled restart behavior.
(FAQs)
Conclusion
The PIC10 TB085 HDL Sample is an excellent example of how a tiny PIC10F206 can control complex power-supply behavior using smart firmware. With soft start, fault protection, and high-frequency pulse generation, this project is a valuable learning resource for anyone exploring embedded systems, Proteus simulation, and efficient microcontroller projects.
- Can this project run without Proteus?
Yes, it is designed for real hardware, but Proteus helps visualize behavior safely. - Why is software PWM used instead of hardware PWM?
PIC10F206 has no hardware PWM module; GPIO toggling is used instead. - Can I change the switching frequency?
Yes, by modifying instruction timing and loop structure. - How is undervoltage detected?
Using the internal comparator on GP0 with a scaled input voltage. - Is the soft start duration adjustable?
Yes, by modifying the pulse table and delay counters. - Can another PIC10 device be used?
Only compatible PIC10 devices with similar pin functions. - What happens during over-temperature?
Pulse generation stops until the temperature input returns high. - What pin provides the 250 kHz output?
GP2 provides the 250 kHz output for the MCP1630.
