MCU development package exploits 'fun factor'

14 November 2007 DSP, Micros & Memory

STMicroelectronics has introduced a self-contained, entertaining and low-cost development package, the STM32 Primer, for the recently-announced STM32 Flash microcontroller family, which is based on the ARM Cortex-M3 core. It includes an innovative user interface, games and other features to introduce new users to the family, as well as Raisonance software tools for advanced development and programming.

The STM32 Primer, a handheld evaluation and development tool, is designed to provide a fun and easy introduction to the powerful features of the STM32. Its compact, stylised circular design, including a window through which the STM32 chip is visible, is matched with sample applications including two games, access to a dedicated online community for sharing resources and experiences, and a RIDE7 integrated development environment (IDE).

Control and navigation through the built-in graphical user interface (GUI), with its 128 x 128 pixel LCD colour monitor, uses MEMS-based (micro-electromechanical systems) position sensing to monitor the forward, backward, left or right tilt of the Primer. These controls enable the user to play the Maze and Breakout games, included among the firmware designed to demonstrate the features and resources of the STM32, as well as to change settings and run test software through the menu system.

This new approach to MCU evaluation includes the support of an online STM32 community at www.stm32circle.com, providing extensive documentation and resources, downloadable projects designed and submitted by other users, a discussion forum and a soon-to-be-announced competition for the best STM32 Primer application.

Further reading:

Memory shortage 2026: Engineering implications for South Africa
DSP, Micros & Memory
[Sponsored] Addressing this challenge requires system-level thinking and adoption with McKinsey Electronics providing the engineering and sourcing framework required to maintain system resilience despite ongoing global constraints.

Read more...

---

Cost-effective microcontroller series
Altron Arrow DSP, Micros & Memory
The STM32C5 series from STMicroelectronics delivers an excellent balance of performance, efficiency, and affordability for embedded designs that require more capability without increasing bill of materials cost.

Read more...

---

Battery-friendly Thread and BLE solution
iCorp Technologies DSP, Micros & Memory
Positioned as an incremental upgrade to the ESP32-H2, Espressif’s ESP32-H21 adds an integrated DC-DC converter that reduces active current draw and helps extend battery life in power-sensitive consumer and industrial devices.

Read more...

---

Next generation HMI processing platform
Future Electronics DSP, Micros & Memory
Microchip’s latest hybrid MCU SiP integrates an Arm926EJ-S processor with 512 Mb of DDR2 SDRAM and is engineered to meet the rising demand for sophisticated HMI solutions in modern vehicles.

Read more...

---

Low-power SoC for IoT designs
iCorp Technologies DSP, Micros & Memory
Espressif’s ESP32-H4 is a dual-core 32-bit RISC-V SoC designed for battery-powered wireless products that require low energy consumption, strong security, and modern connectivity.

Read more...

---

Chip for high-density power
Future Electronics DSP, Micros & Memory
Microchip’s dsPIC33AK256MPS306 Digital Signal Controllers combine high-resolution control, high-speed analogue, and security with support for post-quantum cryptography.

Read more...

---

The end of ‘entry-level’: STMicroelectronics’ STM32C5 sets a new baseline for embedded systems
DSP, Micros & Memory
[Sponsored] Instead of incrementally improving legacy Cortex-M0+ architectures, STM32C5 introduces a Cortex-M33-based platform into the entry-level category. This changes not only performance expectations, but also how engineers approach system architecture, consolidation, and long-term scalability.

Read more...

---

GigaDevice expands GD25UF Series density
NuVision Electronics DSP, Micros & Memory
GigaDevice has announced the expanded density range of its GD25UF series 1,2 V ultra-low power SPI NOR Flash, now spanning from 8 Mb to 256 Mb.

Read more...

---

ARINC 429 line driver evaluation board
ASIC Design Services DSP, Micros & Memory
Holt Integrated Circuits have announced the release of the ADK-85104 Evaluation Board, a compact, ready-to-use platform designed to help engineers rapidly evaluate and characterise Holt’s HI-85104.

Read more...

---

Highly integrated 24-channel mixed signal IC
EBV Electrolink DSP, Micros & Memory
Microchip Technology has announced the LX4580, a 24-channel mixed-signal IC designed to replace multiple discrete components with a single device that supports synchronised data acquisition, fault monitoring, and motor control.

Read more...

---