In cost-sensitive and resource-constrained applications, 8-bit microcontrollers are often the first choice. However, in early 2023, STMicroelectronics (ST) launched the eye-catching STM32C0 series, subverting traditional perceptions. The STM32C0 series has not only become the price barrier-breaker for 32-bit MCUs to drop to 8-bit MCUs in terms of price, but has also become the performance booster of low-priced microcontrollers in terms of performance. This means that the 32-bit entry-level microcontrollers of the STM32C0 series are not only cheaper than 8-bit microcontrollers, but also perform far better than 8-bit microcontrollers, achieving the goal of cost reduction and efficiency improvement.
1. The key to efficiency improvement
The STM32C0 series is STMicroelectronics' entry-level 32-bit microcontroller for low-cost applications. It is based on the Arm Cortex-M0+ core, has a main frequency of 48MHz, and uses a 90nm process, which has a high cost-effective advantage. This series of products is not only cheaper than 8-bit MCUs, but also has the performance of 32-bit MCUs, bringing new design advantages to typical application fields of 8-bit/16-bit microcontrollers.
Normally, the main frequency of 8-bit MCUs is mostly between 16MHz and 24MHz. Although some products have a main frequency of up to 48MHz, they are inferior to STM32C0 in terms of other resources and interfaces. In addition, the STM32C0 series currently provides 16 to 32KB flash memory and 8 to 48-pin packages, covering a variety of types to meet the needs of different applications. It is expected that in 2024, the STM32C0 series will also expand with new products, including 128KB and 256KB flash memory products, as well as a new 64-pin package.
2. Brand new product STM32C071
The upcoming STM32C071 focuses on large memory, including 128 KB of flash memory and 24 KB of RAM, quadrupling the memory configuration. This means that the STM32C0 series can meet more memory-requiring application scenarios without using higher-priced MCU products. In addition, STM32C071 is also equipped with a crystal-free USB controller, which can simplify the BOM and reduce the complexity of PCB layout, thus filling the market gap in entry-level application scenarios.
In addition to the USB controller, the STM32C071 also has additional SPI and I2C interfaces and 32-bit timers, allowing embedded systems to have more functions. STM32C071 can be regarded as a connecting product between the STM32C0 series and the STM32G0 series with better performance and higher configuration, providing developers with more possibilities.
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