Extended 32-bit MCU range
13 May 2009
DSP, Micros & Memory
STMicroelectronics has added a new line to its STM32 range, focusing on high-performance variants of industry-standard interfaces to allow more applications to benefit from the pin-and-software compatibility between STM32 devices.
The new STM32 Connectivity Line adds a full-speed USB on-the-go (OTG) interface, which allows end products to act as a USB host or USB device. There is also an Ethernet interface featuring hardware support for IEEE1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP). Implementing the protocol in hardware reduces CPU overhead and enables faster response for realtime applications and when synchronising networked devices.
The new Connectivity Line is also the first STM32 family to include two CAN2.0B controllers, which allows developers to build gateway devices linking two industry-standard controller area network (CAN) buses. The new MCUs support simultaneous operation of Ethernet, USB OTG and CAN2.0B peripherals, allowing developers to build gateway devices using a combination of these interfaces in a single chip.
The STM32 Connectivity Line delivers increased audio capabilities, using an advanced phase-locked loop scheme, enabling audio-class I²S communications. Combined with the ability to act as a USB host or device, the STM32 can read, decode and output audio from external storage such as a USB mass-storage device or MP3 player. Human-machine interface (HMI) functions such as play and stop buttons, as well as display interfacing, can also be hosted on the MCU.
The combination of connectivity-oriented peripherals, standard peripherals including a PWM timer, and the high processing performance of the 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 CPU, also allow developers to consolidate multiple functions such as motor control, user interface control and connectivity features in equipment such as domestic appliances, building controls or industrial automation. Other applications will include systems requiring network accessibility, data-logging, or USB peripheral extension, such as patient monitors, point-of-sale terminals, vending machines and safety or security systems.
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