In the new wifi shield, a AT32UC3A1256 chip is used. I would like to use the AT32UC3C2128C chip instead of a 328P for the main board Arduino to gain 12bit adc and 4 UART. What would need to be done software/hardware wise to make this work? Obviously, different pin count for the chip would drive a different routing of wires than the 328P, but beyond that, what else would need to change?
check www.avr-developers.com and see if core files, boards.txt, pins_arduino.h, avrdude.conf, maybe others, have been ported to Arduino yet.
Think will be quicker to go to mega1280 or 2560 and external 12bit ADC such as MCP3201 or similar in that family (such as 8 channel MCP3208).
I'm concerned with total costs on a per package basis. Im going to take a look at what you've posted. Thanks for the reply again!
What I am trying to do is have a package that has 4 channel 12bit ADC, at least 4 UART, one USB for programming, and be compatible with Arduino IDE. I'm looking at staying close to the cost that a Uno is as I have to add a RS485 to the 4 UART, and integrate ethernet OR wifi. By using an external ADC, this adds cost and complexity.
Can always roll your own card.
ATMega640, $11.80 (1-lot,digikey) (smaller memory version of $18 ATmega2560)
Support pieces - depends on your IO needs - crystal, caps, 10K resistor, 100nF caps - <$1
MCP3201 - $1.73 (1-lot, digikey)
Board - $2.50/board (10-lot 10cm x 10cm, iteadstudio)
ADC signal conditioning?
Serial buffers?
Headers?
Power regulation, wallwart?
Provide more project definition.
In the meantime, can prototype with ATMega640 using a board like this
http://www.schmartboard.com/index.asp?page=products_qfp&id=70
(0.5mm pin pitch)
May need additions to boards.txt, avrdude.conf, pins_arduino.h,
or create new "variant"
4 UART - one is USB, one RS485, two are TTL serial?
USB/Serial adapter is another chip
RS485 buffer is another chip
Ethernet, Wifi, more chips
How do all that and keep cost comparable to an Uno with its $2 '328 processor?
$9 disadvantage to start on uC costs: