ST MCUs suit cost-sensitive apps

STMicroelectronics (ST) announced a new series of 8bit microcontrollers (MCUs) in tiny 8-pin packages, which are designed for use in simple, very cost-sensitive applications such as security, lighting, power control, small appliances, sensors and motor control.

The new ST7FLITEUS series extends the embedded peripherals of the ST7Lite Flash MCU family into very inexpensive, very small devices, which enable users to develop applications quickly and easily.

The new MCUs are available in 8-pin SO, DIP and DFN packages. The DFN version is touted to be the smallest 8-pin MCU in the market due to the 0.9mm thickness package with a surface area of 15.75mm². The new micros integrate key system peripherals like an enhanced 12-bit auto-reload timer with PWM output, 8-bit Lite timer with input capture capability, very fast 10-bit ADC with up to 5 channels and an internal RC oscillator. The devices have 1KB program memory and are qualified over the -40°C to 125°C extended temperature range.

The 8-bit Lite timer includes prescaler, watchdog, real-time base and input capture. A trimmable 8MHz RC oscillator offers multiple prescaler ratios, and an additional 32kHz low power Auto Wake-Up oscillator operates alongside the five power-saving modes: Halt, Auto Wake-Up from Halt, Active Halt, Wait and Slow. ST added that these five working modes provide very high flexibility in minimizing the overall power consumption in power critical applications.

Members of the ST7Lite family are available from 8-pin to 20-pin variants. These MCUs promise outstanding flexibility at every stage of the development cycle, from the first prototype to production, ensuring reduced cost of ownership and fast time to market. All of the devices use the same single-voltage Flash technology and are programmed using the same tools.

The 8-pin ST7FLITEUS SO, DIP and DFN samples and tools are already available, with volume production scheduled to begin in Q2 2006. Pricing for 10,000 units starts at 45 cents.