STMicroelectronics has released details of new ultra low-cost 32-bit microcontrollers. ST’s new STM32 Value Line combines the 24MHz ARM Cortex-M3 processor core with peripheral features optimized for typical 16-bit applications such as home-entertainment products, appliances, and industrial equipment. At 24MHz with zero wait state embedded Flash memory access, the STM32 Value Line delivers up to 30 DMIPS, outperforming most of the 16-bit processors. Application-focused features embedded in the STM32 Value Line include up to 12 16-bit timers, including a PWM timer for motor-control applications. As many as 26 timer channels are available, with package options providing up to 100 pins, as well as a 12-bit high-speed ADC, to solve a wide range of industrial control challenges. ST is also offering free software support, including a complete 3-phase motor-control library for appliance and motor-control applications and free VDE-certified libraries to help household appliances achieve necessary approval to EN/IEC60335-1 Class B.
The family also embeds hardware support for the Consumer Electronics Control protocol included in the HDMI standard, thereby simplifying CEC implementation in products such as TVs, Blu-ray players, PVRs and home cinema equipment.
Wolfgang Patelay, Editor Print & Online 