ST intros STM32L EnergyLite ultra-low-power MCUs

STMicroelectronics recently launched the STM32L EnergyLite ultra-low-power MCUs. I caught up with Vinay Thapiyal, technical marketing manager, MCU’s, ST India, to learn more.

The highlights of the STM32L series of MCUs include a commitment for ultra-low power -- the EnergyLite platform is common for 8-bit (STM8L) and 32-bit (STM32L) MCUs. Also, it is strong on pure energy efficiency, with high performance combined with ultra low power, i.e., high high energy saving. Finally, the ultra low power member in STM32 portfolio enriches both the STM32 ultra-low-power EnergyLite platform and the STM32 portfolio.

According to Thapliyal, STMicroelectronics has been involved in the MCU market for a long time. Off late, it has started focusing on the STM32 -- the ARM Cortex based MCU and the STM8 -- for 8-bit family. "We have started converging our old families into these two domains," he added.

The STM32F is the foundation of the STM32 family. STM32F is a family of low power MCUs based on the 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 architecture. The STM8 is a family of MCUs based on ST's propritetary atchitecture. The STM32L is STMicroelectronics' ultra low power family mainly used for portable and very low power applications.

The ultra-low-power EnergyLite platform, featuring the STM32L and the STM8L is based on STMicroelectronics’ 130 nm ultra-low-leakage process technology. They share common technology, architecture and peripherals. The STM8, which was launched in 2009, has caught on very fast. It is a high performance, low cost MCU.

He added that STMicroelectronics started with 130nm technology, and low pin count and low flash on STM8, while higher memory and high pin count is available on the STM32.

Common features across all STM8L and STM32L devices include:
* Multiple communication peripherals up to 3 x USART, 2 x SPI, and 2 x PC.
* Upto 8x16 bit timer.
* Internal 16MHz and 38kHz RC oscillators.
* 2 x watchdogs.
* Reset circuitry POR/PDR.
* 2 x comparators.
* Temperature sensors.

Targeted applications of the STM8L/32L include portable medical electroncs, alarm systems, metering, general portable devices, factory automation, mobile and sensors.

Some more details later!