Microchip PIC64HX1000 64-bit AI MPU delivers Post-Quantum Security for aerospace, defense, and automotive applications

Microchip recently released the PIC64HX1000 64-bit AI MPU, a quantum-resistant processor designed for demanding applications in aerospace, defense, industrial, and medical fields. Built around the  SiFive X280 cores running at 1 GHz, this chip can deliver up to 2 TOPS of RAW AI/ML processing power. Key features include robust security with post-quantum cryptography, integrated Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) Ethernet, and a dedicated system controller for enhanced reliability. Microchip provides a comprehensive ecosystem with tools, libraries, and OS support for Linux, RTEMS, and hypervisors. While not yet available, samples are expected for early access partners in 2025.

This new MPU includes a dedicated system controller for runtime monitoring and fault management, WorldGuard architecture for workload isolation, and post-quantum defense-grade cryptography, which includes the NIST-standardized FIPS 203 and FIPS 204 cryptographic algorithms, ensuring protection against future quantum computing threats.

PIC64HX1000 64-bit AI MPU Specifications

• CPU:
  • 8x 64-bit RISC-V SiFive X280 cores, up to 1 GHz
  • Decoupled 512-bit vector pipeline
  • Performance: 26K DMIPS, 2 TOPS (int8), 1 TFLOPS (bfloat16)
• System Controller:
  • 64-bit RISC-V SiFive S7 core at 500 MHz
  • Interfaces: SPI/QSPI, I2C, UART, 32x GPIO
  • Runtime monitoring and fault management support
• Memory:
  • DDR4-3200 with ECC, up to 32GB per interface
  • Support for SRAM and MRAM
• Storage:
  • Support for eMMC, SD, EEPROM, NAND, and NOR flash
• Networking:
  • 240 Gbps TSN Ethernet switch with 16 external ports (10M–10G)
  • Dual Gigabit Ethernet MACs (GEM)
  • 80 Gbps DMA and RDMA with RoCEv2
• Camera Interface:
  • 2x MIPI CSI-2 lanes at 1 Gbps
• USB:
  • 1x USB 2.0
  • 1x USB 3.0
• Expansion:
  • 2x PCIe Gen 3 x8 or 4x PCIe Gen 3 x4
  • CXL 2.0 (8 GT/s)
  • SPI, UART, I2C, 64x GPIO
• Security:
  • Post-quantum cryptography (ML-KEM, ML-DSA)
  • Defense-grade secure boot and anti-tamper features
  • User-level security acceleration
• Operating Temperature:
  • Industrial: -40°C to +105°C
  • Aviation: -40°C to +125°C
  • Military: -55°C to +125°C
• Package Options:
  • 45 x 45 mm plastic with 1932 balls
  • 19 x 19 mm FCVG484 with 244x I/Os

To make the development process easier Microchip provides various tools, libraries, and drivers. Additionally, it supports multiple boot firmware and supports OS options, such as Linux, RTEMS, and hypervisors like Xen. The company also mentions that this chip will be compatible with Microchip’s Mi-V ecosystem to boost RISC-V development.

Alongside the PIC64HX1000, the microchip also announced the PIC64HX Curiosity Ultra+ Evaluation Kit with dual-rank DDR4 SO-DIMMs, 256GB eMMC, and 2Gb NOR flash. It offers connectivity options like mikroBUS, Raspberry Pi connector, CAN FD, PCIe edge connectors, dual M.2 slots, dual Gigabit Ethernet with TSN, twelve SFP+ ports (up to 10GbE), and USB 3.0. The kit is currently unavailable, with only a render provided.

At the time of writing Microchip’s PIC64HX1000 MPU is not yet available for sale, but the company mentions that they expected to be accessible to Microchip’s early access partners in 2025. For more information, visit Microchip’s product page or press release.

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