ST launches new 8-bit MCU family

DSP, Micros & Memory

28 October 2009 DSP, Micros & Memory

STMicroelectronics has begun volume production of the first microcontrollers to combine its high-performance 8-bit architecture with the company’s recently announced ultra-low-power innovations to save power in active modes as well as when idle. The STM8L product family comprises 26 devices in three lines spanning a broad spectrum of performance and function.

The three STM8L lines are built on ST’s ultra-low-power technology platform using a dedicated, proprietary 130 nm process optimised for ultra-low leakage. Features include full CPU performance up to the maximum operating frequency throughout the entire supply voltage range, from 1,65 V to 3,6 V. Moreover, using an on-chip regulator, power consumption is independent of supply voltage, providing extra flexibility and simplifying design.

Other innovations include low-power embedded non-volatile memory and multiple power-management modes including a 5,4 μA low-power run mode, 3,3 μA low-power wait mode, 1 μA active halt with full RTC, and 350 nA halt mode. The device can wake from halt within 4 μs, enabling frequent use of the lowest-power mode. Low-power peripherals include the sub-1 μA RTC and automatic wake-up (AWU). Overall, this platform enables dynamic current consumption as low as 150 μA/MHz.

Another feature of the low-power platform is to ensure the integrated analog circuitry remains functional down to 1,8 V operating voltage, which maximises the MCU’s functionality over the complete supply voltage range. It also offers pin and software compatibility between all devices, as well as the flexibility and scalability that come from the homogenous peripheral set shared with ST’s 32-bit STM32 product lines.

The STM8L101 line is the entry point of the STM8L portfolio. This family delivers a high level of integration in an ultra-small footprint, with Flash density up to 8 KB and 20-, 28- and 32-pin package options. Of the two other product lines making up the product range, the STM8L15x lines add extra features including up to 32 KB on-chip Flash and up to 2 KB SRAM, external crystal/clock capability, enhanced reset features, and support for Direct Memory Access (DMA). There are also additional peripherals including a motor-control timer, increased analog capabilities, realtime clock, and fast ADC and DAC functions. On-chip EEPROM with true read while write (RWW) capability saves complex and expensive emulation in Flash. The third line, the STM8L152, also features an integrated LCD controller.

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ST launches new 8-bit MCU family

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