Micros
Getting hands-on with the Cortex-M7
The first MCU featuring ARM’s newest M-class core is now in volume production, supported by a very capable development kit, as Philip Ling ‘discovers’
Universal debug engine supports multi-core automotive MCUs
As a result of many years of close partnership with STMicroelectronics, PLS Programmierbare Logik & Systeme is already able to offer the Universal Debug Engine (UDE) 4.4.6, a sophisticated and proven debugging and testing solution, for the first samples of STMicroelectronics' latest SPC58 E-line in its multi-core automotive MCU family.
Versatile ARM-based microcontrollers target host of applications
The SAM D10 and SAM D11 SMART ARM-Based Microcontrollers from Atmel are now being shipped by distributor Mouser Electronics. The low-power microcontrollers are based on a 32-bit ARM Cortex -M0+ processor operating at a maximum frequency of 48MHz. They boast a rich set of peripherals, flexibility, and ease-of-use at a low entry cost, making them ideal for a wide range of general-purpose uses, including home automation, consumer, metering, and indu...
Low-power MCUs support high-speed IoT/M2M operation
Toshiba has announced the TXZ family of ARM Cortex-based MCUs, supporting low-power consumption and high-speed operation for IoT and M2M ecosystems. The TXZ family has been designed to meet market needs for low power consumption systems by integrating the ultra-low power design technologies adopted in Toshiba’s TZ series of ApP Lite application processor family for IoT solutions into current TX family of MCUs.
Low power MCU portfolio offers enhanced memory & security
Microchip announces the expansion of its eXtreme Low Power (XLP) PIC MCU portfolio. Features of the PIC24F GB4 family include an integrated hardware crypto engine with both OTP and Key RAM options for secure key storage, up to 256KB of Flash memory and a direct drive for segmented LCD displays, in 64-, 100- or 121-pin packages.
16-bit MCUs integrate 256KB flash memory
Designed to meet the needs for greater performance and functionality required in consumer electronics and home appliances, the ML620530/540/550 family of 16-bit low power MCUs has been released by LAPIS Semiconductor. The family builds upon the general-purpose ML620500 series by integrating 256KB flash memory along with enhanced communication and sensor functionality.
Crystal clear choice for displays
MCUs with integrated drivers are providing a boost for the growing LCD market. By Mary Tamar Tan, Applications Engineer, Microchip Technology, and Rodger Richey, Director Engineering & New Product Development, Microchip Technology.
MCU additions offer 256KB Flash & 83DMIPS
Microchip has announced a series within its PIC32MX1/2 32-bit MCU family that features a 256KB Flash configuration and 16KB of RAM in small-footprint packages. These latest additions to the MCU family provide flexibility to low-cost applications that need complex algorithms and application code, and they are coupled with Microchip’s comprehensive software and tools for designs in graphics, touch sensing and general-purpose em...
MCU sales growth slows despite unit shipments increase
According to IC Insights’ Mid-Year Update to its 2015 McClean Report on the IC industry, MCUs are in the middle of an incredible wave of unit growth, but unprecedented price erosion is keeping a lid on the increase of revenues. The mid-year forecast shows MCU shipments rising 33% in 2015 to 25.4bn units worldwide as a result of a tremendous upsurge in units for smartcards and 32-bit applications - many of which are aimed at the IoT market.
ARM Cortex M0+ MCUs feature segment LCD controller
Expanding its family of secure, ARM Cortex M0+-based MCUs, Atmel has announced the SAM L22 series. These devices offer an ultra-low power capacitive touch with a segment LCD controller that can deliver up to 320 segments, making them suitable for low-power applications such as thermostats, electric/gas/water meters, home control, medical and access systems.