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Renesas announces FreeRTOS support for new SH7216 MCURenesas Technology Europe announced today that it has partnered with the FreeRTOS program to provide FreeRTOS support for the new SH7216 microcontroller device. FreeRTOS is a portable, open source real time kernel that is currently the de facto standard in cross-platform operating systems for embedded microcontrollers. The announcement is significant as it represents the first official port of FreeRTOS for the SuperH line of microcontrollers from Renesas. The port will especially benefit customers wanting to use the SuperH in connectivity or real time applications. The combined hardware and software provides high performance along with ease of use, helping customers to get their applications up and running much more rapidly. 
STMicroelectronics Launches STM32 Value Line to Give Cost-Sensitive Applications Greater ChoiceSTMicroelectronics has released details of new ultra low-cost 32-bit microcontrollers bringing the advantages of the STM32's 32-bit advanced industry-standard core into applications served by lower-performing devices that lock developers into proprietary processor architectures. 
Renesas Technology announces a new 32bit RX MCU with enhanced timer and analog functions for motor and inverter control systemsAt Embedded World in Nuremberg, Renesas Technology Europe today announced the release of the new RX62T, the third family of products in its broad RX Platform series of MCUs. The RX Platform is built around the new RX CPU and comprises the next generation of MCUs which integrate the functions of Renesas Technology's existing 16-bit and 32-bit MCU products. The new RX62T Group comprises 40 individual products. In addition to the high speed, high performance, and low power of the 32-bit RX600 Series, the new RX62T group features improved inverter control timers and analog functions required for today's inverter control applications. 
Renesas launches new R8C Family MCUsRenesas Technology Europe today announced a new generation of R8C Family microcontrollers (MCUs) that are based on the latest process technology tailored for high performance 8 bit applications. Built on a powerful 16-bit CPU core*, the R8C/3x MCUs with on-chip flash have an extended operating voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V. They incorporate new and enhanced analogue functions, including level-only-sensitive power-on reset circuits, high speed digital-to-analogue converters and analogue comparators. In addition, their overall performance has been boosted by the addition of a data transfer controller (DTC) and a background operation (BGO) function for flash memory rewriting. Atmel's Low-Power 8-Bit MCUs Optimized for Touch SensingAtmel announced that its low-power ATtiny 10/20/40 microcontroller (MCU) families are optimized for touch sensing support of buttons, wheels and sliders. Featuring Atmel's AVR MCU and its patented low-power picoPower® technology, these devices are ideal for a number of applications in the cost-sensitive industrial and consumer markets including automotive control panels, LCD TVs and monitors, notebook computers, mobile handsets and more. Infineon Introduces Two Low-Cost 8-bit MCU Series Supporting Energy Efficient Designs of Drives, Automation, Lighting Solutions, and Human Machine InterfacesInfineon Technologies has expanded its cost-effective and scalable XC800 microcontroller (MCU) portfolio with two powerful new device series. The new XC82x and XC83x series were specifically developed to further reduce system cost and allow for improved energy efficiency of a wide range of industrial applications. 
Silicon Labs Greens Up Smart Home/Smart Meter Market With Lowest Power Wireless MicrocontrollersAnswering the need for energy efficiency in home automation and metering, Silicon Laboratories Inc. (NASDAQ: SLAB), a leader in high-performance, analog-intensive, mixed-signal ICs, today introduced the industry's lowest power single-chip wireless microcontrollers (MCUs). Silicon Labs' new ultra-low-power Si10xx wireless MCU family addresses the power and RF requirements of battery-operated home automation systems, smart meters, in-home utility monitors and security systems. 
Renesas Technology announces two new 32 bit RX products with Ethernet, USB and CAN connectivityRenesas Technology Europe today announced the release of a second selection of products in its wide RX Platform product line-up. The RX Platform is built around the new RX CPU and comprises the next generation of MCUs integrating the functions of Renesas Technology's existing 16-bit and 32-bit MCU products. 
Microchip Significantly Expands Enhanced 8-bit PIC MCU PortfolioMicrochip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, today unveiled several new 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers (MCUs) that sets the industry benchmark for low-power microcontrollers and peripheral integration. These new MCUs feature active currents of less than 50 µA/MHz and sleep currents down to 20 nA. The PIC12F182X MCUs extend Microchip's Enhanced Mid-range 8-bit core product line into the 8-pin segment, and include mTouch™ capacitive touch-sensing, and communications peripherals. The PIC16F19XX MCUs feature a broad range of peripherals, such as mTouch capacitive touch-sensing module, LCD drive, multiple communications and more Pulse width Modulator (PWM) peripherals. All of these general-purpose MCUs are well suited for applications in the appliance; consumer; industrial and automotive markets, among others. 
Microchip Announces Higher Memory, Higher Pin Count Expansion of Enhanced 8-bit PIC Microcontrollers (MCUs)Microchip announces the expansion of its Enhanced 8-bit Mid-range core microcontroller (MCU) portfolio, with higher memory and pincount devices featuring nanoWatt XLP technology and industry-leading active power consumption. The PIC16F19XX MCUs feature a broad range of peripherals, including an mTouch™ capacitive touch-sensing module, LCD drive, multiple communications peripherals, and more Pulse-Width Modulator (PWM) channels, with independent timers. The new MCUs deliver increased performance for a wide variety of applications in the appliance; industrial; medical; and automotive markets, among others. 
Microchip Announces New 8-, 14- and 20-pin Enhanced Mid-Range PIC Microcontrollers (MCUs)Microchip announces several new, peripheral-rich 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers (MCUs) with active currents of less than 50 µA/MHz and extremely low sleep currents. The PIC12F182X and PIC16F182X (PIC1XF182X) MCUs extend Microchip's Enhanced Mid-range 8-bit core product line into the 8-pin segment, bringing the total number of Enhanced 8-bit core PIC MCUs to 16, in packages ranging from 8 to 64 pins. With their extreme low power and high levels of integration, including mTouch™ capacitive touch-sensing and multiple communications peripherals, the general-purpose PIC12F182X and PIC16F182X MCUs are well suited for a wide range of applications in the appliance; consumer; and automotive markets, among others. 
Energy Micro launches EFM32 Tiny Gecko microcontrollers for low power, space and cost sensitive applicationsEnergy Micro, the energy friendly microcontroller company, has announced a range of entry-level devices for low power applications subject to stringent PCB space and product cost limitations. At a sub-Dollar price, the EFM32 'Tiny Gecko' (TG) microcontrollers offer the energy-efficient performance of the company's bigger Gecko products combined with smaller Flash and RAM combinations and a choice of space saving QFN20, QFN32 and QFN64 packaging. 
TI’s MSP430 MCU Value Line gives 8-bit developers up to 10X performance and 10X battery life and it starts at 25 cents,Committed to solving the growing performance and efficiency challenges of the 8-bit market, Texas Instruments announced the MSP430 microcontroller (MCU) Value Line that offers superior16-bit MCU performance and industry leading ultra-low power consumption at ultra-low 8-bit MCU prices. Starting at 25 cents, the Value Line ensures 8-bit developers no longer need to sacrifice performance, power efficiency or scalability because of price. Atmel Expands tinyAVR Product Family with High- Performance, Low-power MicrocontrollerAtmel announced the ATtiny4313, an extension to Atmel's tinyAVR product family of low-power, high-performance microcontrollers featuring picoPower® technology. The ATtiny4313 is a new device in the 20-pin tinyAVR family that is code- and pin-compatible with the existing ATtiny2313A. The new device enables a simple, swift upgrade to consumer end products. 
Atmel's Secure Microcontroller Offers Easy-to-Implement Security to Prevent Cloning and CounterfeitingAtmel announced a new secure microcontroller dedicated to deeply embedded security functions including brand and IP (intellectual property) protection against counterfeiting and cloning. Atmel's AT90SO4 is the newest member of the AT90SO product family - a family that offers a wide range of interfaces to bring security in any system. Built around Atmel's secureAVR® microcontroller technology, the AT90SO4 offers banking or government security level with four multiplexed interfaces in a tiny package. 
Fujitsu Announces New Series of Low Pin Count 8-bit MCUs for Motor ControlFujitsu Microelectronics Europe has expanded its F2MC-8FX family of low-cost, low pin count (LPC) microcontrollers (MCUs). MB95330K is the first Fujitsu 32-pin, 8-bit MCU series to feature motor control functionality. With fast processing, low power consumption and three-phase motor control timers, the devices are targeted for use in a wide range of industrial, medical and consumer applications. 
Atmel Develops Floating Point Unit for 32-bit AVR UC3 MicrocontrollersAtmel Corporation announced a new technology, a Floating Point Unit, that is being designed for Atmel's 32-bit AVR UC3 product family. This new technology will enable designers to replace a two chip microcontroller and digital signal processing (DSP) solution with just one Atmel microcontroller (MCU) for applications in the automotive and industrial control markets. STMicroelectronics Delivers 90nm STM32 MCU with Unique Flash Accelerator for Extra Performance BoostSTMicroelectronics has announced two significant advances that further improve the performance and power consumption of its successful STM32 family: availability of production devices featuring embedded Flash at 90nm process technology; and the industry's first Adaptive Real-Time (ART) memory accelerator optimized for the STM32's industry-standard ARM Cortex-M3 processor. 
STMicroelectronics Locks In STM32 Advantages with New Megabyte Devices Increasing Application ReachSTMicroelectronics has extended its STM32 microcontroller family with extra features and up to 1-Mbyte of on-chip Flash. The additional Flash at least doubles the memory available to STM32 developers, thereby supporting future scalability, increasing system performance, and providing advanced application features, such as next-generation graphical user interfaces for consumer and industrial products. NXP Licenses ARM Cortex - M4 Processor For 32-bit Microcontroller Signal Processing ApplicationsNXP Semiconductors today announced it is one of the first ARM partners to license the latest ARM Cortex-M4 processor. The Cortex-M4 processor is a highly efficient solution for digital signal control (DSC) applications, while maintaining the industry leading capabilities of the ARM Cortex-M family of processors for advanced microcontroller (MCU) applications. NXP intends to use the Cortex-M4 processor for a wide range of applications which require greater flexibility and signal processing capabilities, such as motor control, automotive, power management, embedded audio and industrial automation applications. NXP will demonstrate these DSP extensions at Embedded World, Nuremberg (March 2 - 5, 2010) to highlight Cortex-M4's DSP capabilities. NXP's booth number: Hall 12, 218. 
Fairchild Semiconductor Offers Broadest Selection of PSR PWM ControllersFairchild Semiconductor's industry-leading portfolio of primary side regulation (PSR) PWM controllers offers designers of mobile chargers, adapters and LED lighting applications multiple solutions to meet the stringent power and regulatory specifications such as ENERGY STAR Level V. 
Renesas Technology Releases 32 Initial-Phase Products in R8C/Lx Series of High-Performance 16-Bit Microcontrollers with On-Chip Flash Memory Incorporating an LCD DriverRenesas Technology Europe today announced the release of the R8C/Lx Series of high-performance 16-bit microcontrollers with on-chip flash memory incorporating an LCD driver, for use in a wide range of LCD panel equipped applications including industrial and consumer products and battery-operated healthcare devices. The initial release phase comprises a total of 32 models (112 type names) in eight groups, incorporating large-capacity on-chip flash memory of up to 128 kbytes and offering higher performance together with improved ease of use through such features as ultra-low power consumption and enhanced peripheral functions. 
Toshiba Electronics micro combines ARM Cortex-M3 with 2MByte FlashToshiba Electronics has launched a 32-bit microcontroller that combines a high speed ARM Cortex™-M3 core with 2MBytes of onboard Flash memory. The TMPM360 is ideal for industrial and digital consumer applications where high-performance, low-power operation, high-capacity data storage and a large number of serial interfaces must be delivered with minimum component count. 
NEC Electronics Expands Lineup with 78 new 32-bit Microcontrollers with Low Power Consumption and Dramatically Reduced Package SizeNEC Electronics today announced 78 new 32-bit All Flash V850ES/Jx3 series microcontrollers (MCUs) with industry's leading low power consumption, optimized pin counts and expanded functionality. The new MCUs are ideal for compact, battery-driven systems such as polyphase electricity meters and handheld terminals, connected devices such as USB2.0 PC peripherals and healthcare equipment, as well as industrial Ethernet systems. NXP’s New 120 MHz ARM Cortex-M3 Microcontrollers Top DSP BenchmarksNXP Semiconductors today announced availability of the LPC1769 and LPC1759 microcontrollers that operate at 120 MHz, the fastest ARM Cortex-M3 MCUs in the industry. At this level of performance, integration of microcontroller control and signal processing becomes a reality for cost constrained applications eliminating the need for dedicated DSP hardware. TI extends support for Flash Player 10.1 to OMAP 4 platformFurther addressing the demand for uncompromised mobile Web browsing and rich Internet applications, Texas Instruments today announced support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 on TI's OMAP processors and OMAP processor-based development platforms, including the new Zoom™ OMAP36x-III and the OMAP 4 processor-based Blaze™ mobile development platform. As highlighted in January 2010, Flash Player 10.1 will soon land on exciting OMAP 3 processor-based devices across various operating systems, including Android and Palm webOS™. 
Renesas Technology to Release R8C/Mx Series of Flash MCUs with Extremely Low Power Consumption and Powerful On-Chip Peripheral FunctionsRenesas Technology Europe today announced the release of the R8C/Mx Series of low-pin-count MCUs with on-chip flash memory (flash MCUs) offering power consumption among the lowest in the industry and improved functions including timers for applications requiring low power consumption, such as electric shavers, electric toothbrushes, and other compact electrical household appliances. 
Saelig's W7100 – New Embedded-Internet 8051 MCUSaelig Company announced the W7100, a one-chip solution which integrates an 8051-compatible microcontroller, 64KB SRAM and hardwired 10BaseT/100BaseTX + PHY for high performance and easy development. Targeted at designs for network-enabled instruments and dataloggers, the W7100 provides 32 Kbytes of internal buffer for data transmission/receiving, and supports half-duplex/full duplex, auto-negotiation and auto MDI/MDIX. It can also drive 6 network LEDs for Link, TX, RX, Collision, Speed and Duplex for status indication. TI delivers a new flexible DaVinci video processorTexas Instruments announced the TMS320DM6467T, a new DaVinci video processor designed to meet the demand for increased digital video quality, higher resolution and faster frame rates for video communications and security applications. The 1 GHz DM6467T is a single-chip processor that enables networked digital video applications to decode high-definition (HD) H.264 (1080p at 60 frames per second (fps)). The processor also provides optimized imaging support and the advanced video processing capabilities required to support up to eight simultaneous channels of H.264 D1 real-time video encoding with solution from a third party. TI challenges top embedded control engineers with Stellaris ARM Cortex-M3-based MCU design contestChallenging top embedded engineers around the world to demonstrate their skills and innovation, Texas Instruments today announced the DesignStellaris 2010 contest, which takes place through June 23, 2010. Contestants can win by leveraging the Keil™ Microcontroller Development Kit (MDK-ARM) software tools to create a unique hardware- or software-based application that showcases technologies enabled by the advanced connectivity, data efficiency, motion control features and other functionality of TI's Stellaris® LM3S9B96 microcontroller (MCU) as well as the capabilities of the on-chip SafeRTOS™ real-time operating system from Wittenstein. The contest is co-sponsored by Circuit Cellar magazine. 
NEC Electronics - Twelve New 16-bit Microcontrollers with USB 2.0 functionalityNEC Electronics announced the availability of twelve new 16-bit All Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) with built-in Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 function and industry-leading low power consumption. The new offering includes six 48-pin MCUs (78K0R/KC3-L) and six 64-pin MCUs (78K0R/KE3-L). 
Renesas Technology to Release SH74552 and SH74562 MCUs with On-Chip Flash Memory and Compact Package for Applications of Advanced Driver Assistance SystemsRenesas Technology Europe today announced the SH74552 and SH74562 32-bit MCUs for applications of advanced driver assistance systems, needed in automobile "active safety" systems, such as those for obstacle detection and risk avoidance. Sample shipments will begin in May 2010. 
Microchip adds self-programmable Flash memory to 8-bit familyMicrochip announces a new member of its popular 8- and 14-pin PIC16F61X 8-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) family, targeting cost-effective general-purpose applications. The PIC12F617 MCU features 3.5kbyte of self-programmable Flash program memory, and peripherals such as a 10-bit Analogue-to-Digital Converter (ADC), comparator, Pulse-Width Modulator (PWM) and VREF for closed-loop-control applications—all in a miniature 3 mm x 3 mm DFN package. 
NEC Electronics Europe Introduces New 78K0/Ix2 LED Microcontroller Demonstration KitNEC Electronics Europe announced the release of its 78K0/Ix2 LED microcontroller (MCU) demonstration kit based on NEC Electronics' 78K0/Ix2 lighting ASSP. The kit demonstrates how an efficient and intelligent LED driver design can be implemented without any additional driver ICs but only by a single flexible microcontroller capable of maintaining programmable constant current through multiple LED channels only using the integrated unique peripheral architecture allowing no CPU involvement which at the mean time can process DALI or DMX512 communications. Precision Analog Microcontrollers Feature On-Chip Data Conversion To Simplify Optical Module DesignAnalog Devices introduced a pair of highly integrated precision analog microcontrollers featuring on-chip memory, data converters, and other analog peripherals that combine to deliver the highest level of programmability and smallest package size. Effective for digital diagnostics in optical transceivers and modules based on both fixed and tunable frequency lasers, the ADuC7023 and ADuC7122 precision analog microcontrollers use an ARM7 processor with up to 126 KB of flash memory to ensure the accurate control of optical drivers and diagnostics. 
TI introduces new C2000 controlSUITE software for real-time control applicationsResponding to the demand for more intuitive, easy-to-use software throughout every design stage, Texas Instruments today announced controlSUITE software for its TMS320C2000 microcontrollers (MCUs) that enable real-time control applications. 
Toshiba announces implementation of functional safety concept on MCU for SIL3 and ASILD level applicationsToshiba Electronics Europe has announced a microcontroller that can be certified to Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL3) and Automotive SIL D (ASILD) while significantly reducing associated system cost and performance overheads. The Toshiba SIL3/ASILD implementation delivers a more cost-effective solution than alternative methods owing to the fact that it has a smaller chip size, smaller program requirement and better performance than conventional dual-core lock-step methods. It is based on a hardware architecture that reduces both effort of safety mechanisms and their detection latency. Detailed diagnostic information and the ability to configure the reaction according to the severity of the error allow new system concepts to be implemented targeting higher availability. 
Blackfin BF50x Processors Break Price/Performance BarriersAnalog Devices unveiled the latest entries in its Blackfin family of processors for converged digital signal and control processing applications – the Blackfin BF50x series. Delivering up to 100% greater performance than competing, comparably priced processors with integrated analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and flash memory, BF50x series processors enable designers to achieve significant gains in signal conversion and computational precision, and apply advanced power control techniques to yield greater energy efficiency for industrial applications. Analog Devices also introduced a new low-cost ($199) EZ-KIT Lite® evaluation platform for the Blackfin BF50x series, providing a cost-effective entry point for processor evaluation. Blackfin BF50x processors are sampling to customers today. 
Toshiba - ARM9 micro with on-board graphics processing, USB connectivity and support for home appliance safety standardsToshiba's new microcontroller features an LCD controller for STN/TFT colour displays up to a maximum of 1024 x 768 pixels, a touch screen interface and an image process accelerator that provides on-chip scaling, filtering and image blending at resolutions up to 800 x 480 pixels. Nuvoton launches NuMicro Family —32-bit Microcontroller based on ARM Cortex-M0Nuvoton Technology Corporation announced the launch of a brand new product line — NuMicro Family, the 32-bit Microcontroller based on ARM Cortex-M0. NuMicro family adopts the newest processor of ARM Cortex-M0, featured with smallest size, lowest power consumption, optimized instruction set. As a powerful microcontroller, NuMicro® Family is equipped with various built-in analog, mixed-signal components, and all kinds of high-speed communication interfaces, which enables users to upgrade their existing products from 8051 to NuMicro® Family easily. With the integration of features of wide range voltage input and EMI from 8-bit microcontroller, NuMicro® Family is particularly suitable for the industry controlling system. 
Atmel Reduces System Cost in Industrial Applications with High-Quality Video Decoding ARM926-based MicroprocessorAtmel today announced the SAM9M10, a high-performance ARM926EJ-based embedded microprocessor (MPU) that integrates a video decoder and 2D acceleration (scaling, rotating, color space conversion, picture in picture) to provide high-quality video performance in industrial embedded applications. The SAM9M10 is targeted at media rich display and control panels in application segments such as home and commercial buildings, POS (Point of Sale) terminals, entertainment systems, Internet appliances and medical. 
STMicroelectronics Pushes the Multi-Touch Screen Market and Unveils Resistive Multi-Touch Single-Chip Controller with Unrivaled PerformanceAs the latest high-tech devices such as smartphones, mobile internet devices and netbooks adopt multi-touch touchscreens to support increasingly sophisticated 'apps' and games, STMicroelectronics has introduced a very advanced multi-touch 'resistive' touchscreen controller chip to optimize the Bill of Materials of the electronics supporting this advanced capability. The STM32TS60 is the first member of ST's new STMTouch family, which offers a broad portfolio of solutions including multi-touch devices and proximity and touch-key sensors. 
NEC Electronics Introduces Eight New 8-bit Body Control MCUs with Industry’s Leading Low Standby Power Consumption for Low-End Automotive ApplicationsNEC Electronics today announced the availability of eight new All Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) for safing microcontroller applications as well as low-end automotive systems, such as motor control and lighting control applications. The new offering includes three 16-pin MCUs (78K0/FY2-L), three 20-pin MCUs (78K0/FA2-L) and two 30-pin MCUs (78K0/FB2-L), featuring the industry's leading low standby power consumption of 0.65 µA, and capable of responding to all temperature environments. Super energy-efficient processors for intelligent home networks from IsmosysCavium's super energy-efficient ARM-based SoC processors are now available from Ismosys, officially launched in March 09 as a new demand creation vehicle of the Spectrum Electronics Group. The single and dual core ARM SoC processors enable high performance, while slashing power and cost for next-generation gateways, storage and Consumer Electronics (CE) devices in the digital home. 
New LCD Controller SoC from STMicroelectronics Delivers Best-in-Class Performance for Mainstream DisplayPort MonitorsSTMicroelectronics today announced a new series of single-chip controller ICs that delivers the features and performance previously only found in premium or high-end monitors, including advanced 12-bit color-processing capabilities, enhanced color fidelity, DisplayPort connectivity and industry-leading ultra-low power consumption when the monitor is in standby mode. 
18-pin PIC® Microcontrollers Feature Microchip’s Enhanced Mid-Range Core and Industry-Leading eXtreme Low Power ConsumptionMicrochip announces the PIC16(L)F1826 and PIC16(L)F1827 general-purpose 8-bit microcontrollers (MCUs) — the latest PIC MCUs to feature the Company's Enhanced Mid-range core. With this extension into the 18-pin range, the PIC16(L)F1826/7 MCUs provide an advanced peripheral set that includes an mTouch™ capacitive touch-sensing module and dual I2C™/SPI interfaces, along with "LF" versions featuring industry-leading low power consumption via Microchip's nanoWatt XLP eXtreme Low-Power technology. The introduction of these MCUs' provides an excellent low cost, pin-compatible migration path for legacy 18-pin PIC MCUs, while delivering increased performance and industry-leading low power operation. 
Atmel Highly-Integrated Cortex-M3-based Flash MCUs Improve Impedance Matching and Lower Power Up to 50 PercentAtmel Corporation today announced the SAM3S series. This series includes 18 general-purpose Cortex-M3 based Flash microcontrollers that simplify PCB design and save 50 percent power at 1MHz operation with a consumption of only 2.3mW. At maximum operating frequency of 64MHz the device consumes 1.45mW/MHz. Inspired by the market's best-selling ARM7TDMI-based SAM7S series, these MCUs enable SAM7S customers to migrate to a 50 percent more powerful and feature-rich MCU, while preserving hardware and software investments. Atmel's SAM3S also expands market opportunities in applications including consumer, industrial control, metering, toys, medical, test and measurement, 802.15.4 wireless networking, PC, cell phone and gaming peripherals. Swimovate redefines swim training with sports watch based on TI’s ultra-low power MSP430 MCUInnovating advanced swim training aids for the fitness industry, Swimovate Ltd leveraged Texas Instruments ultra-low power MSP430™ microcontroller (MCU) to drive its cutting-edge Pool-Mate sports watch, the first fully automatic lap and stroke counter on the market. Based on a single MSP430 MCU, Swimovate's intelligent Pool-Mate allows swimmers to automatically count strokes and laps as well as calculate speed, distance, calories and efficiency. 
Silicon Labs Microcontrollers claim Industry’s Lowest Active And Sleep CurrentAddressing the need for energy efficiency in power-sensitive applications, Silicon Laboratories has introduced the industry's lowest power microcontroller (MCU) family. Silicon Labs' ultra-low-power C8051F91x/0x MCUs dramatically increase battery life in portable designs and other power-sensitive embedded systems. The new F91x/0x MCUs are ideal for a wide range of applications where low power consumption is critical such as smart meters, RFID tags, personal medical devices, sensor interfaces, energy harvesting, home security systems, and smoke and fire detectors. 
NEC Electronics - 8-bit LCD Microcontrollers with Integrated Metrology Engine for Smart Electricity MetersNEC Electronics has announced the availability of four new 8-bit All Flash LCD microcontrollers (MCUs) with an integrated metrology engine providing energy measurement and management functions for smart electricity meters. 
NEC Electronics Introduces 6 New 8-bit All Flash Microcontrollers for Interdependent Control of Digital AV ApplicationsNEC Electronics today announced the availability of six new 8-bit All Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) with built-in CEC (consumer electronic control) controller and embedded flash memory. The new products enable interdependent control of digital audio/video (AV) applications such as digital TVs and Blu-ray™ disc players, and include three 48-pin variants, named 78K0/KC2-C and three 64-pin variants, named 78K0/KE2-C. The new chips target the rapidly growing digital AV market. They are designed for use in devices such as flat-panel TVs and Blu-ray disc players. Northern Power Systems’ Wind Turbines Generate Clean Energy with Help from Analog Devices’ SHARC ProcessorsAnalog Devices, Inc. today announced that Northern Power Systems has selected ADI SHARC digital signal processors for use within the company's flagship Northwind® 100 community-scale wind turbines. Northern Power Systems' Northwind 100 uses an advanced "digital drivetrain" to deliver 100 kilowatts of rated power for community wind applications such as schools/universities, businesses, farms, and municipalities. 
Atmel Introduces Low-Power, Single-Chip Wireless Microcontroller Family for Growing IEEE 802.15.4 MarketAtmel Corporation today announced a new family of AVR wireless microcontroller devices targeting wireless applications such as ZigBee and IPv6/6LoWPAN. The ATmega128RFA1 is IEEE 802.15.4 compliant and combines Atmel's picoPower AVR MCU and a 2.4 GHz RF transceiver. Atmel's picoPower technology offers ultra-low power consumption to ultimately enable longer battery life for wireless ZigBee applications, including smart energy, building automation, telecom and health care. ATmega128RFA1 is supported by Atmel's QTouch Library, making it easy to combine capacitive touch functionality with RF in a single chip. 
Freescale introduces QorIQ communications processors with QUICC Engine technologyprocessorsFreescale Semiconductor has introduced the first processors based on its QorIQ communications platform that also incorporate QUICC Engine multiprotocol technology. The QorIQ P1012/P1021 product family offers a high-performance, low-power migration path to all-IP environments for customers using legacy multiprotocol interfaces. 
Microchip’s PIC Microcontrollers With nanoWatt XLP Gain Global Industry Recognition as the World’s Leading Low-Power TechnologyMicrochip Technology has announced that its PIC microcontrollers with nanoWatt XLP eXtreme Low Power Technology have won three global honors. In Europe, XLP received the 2009 Elektra Award in the Semiconductor Product of the Year category. In the U.S., Microchip's XLP Technology was selected by Wireless Design & Development Magazine as the May 2009 Editor's Choice Technology Award. In Asia, XLP received a "Leading Product Award" in the Microprocessor and DSP category, from the 2009 EDN China Innovation Awards. Super Low Power MCU from Renesas offers large flash in a small packageRenesas Technology Europe today announced the availability of its H8/38606F Super Low Power microcontroller, which has been designed for the next generation of low power smart sensor applications. The H8/38606F is unique in providing 48 kbytes of on-chip flash memory in a small 32-pin QFN package together with Super Low Power technology. 
NXP announces availability of ARM Cortex-M3 USB microcontrollersNXP Semiconductors today announced availability of the LPC1340 series microcontrollers with full-speed USB 2.0 device connectivity enabled by on-chip USB drivers certified by USB-IF, making them the easiest to use USB MCUs in the industry. The LPC1340 is supported by VDE IEC 60335 Class B test libraries to support customers in the Class B certification process. In addition, NXP will offer an easy-to-use, comprehensive development tool platform for under US $30. 
Atmel Expands 6-pin AVR Microcontroller FamilyAtmel has announced three new 6-pin picoPower AVR microcontrollers. The ATtiny4, ATtiny5, and ATtiny9 are pin- and code- compatible, include a rich feature set, and execute code 6-times faster than the closest competitor. STMicroelectronics - New Applications for its 32-bit MCU STM32 Connectivity LineSTMicroelectronics will showcase "Internet radio" and "Standby MCU" demonstrations with evaluation boards that use its STM32 Connectivity Line of ARM Cortex-M3 core-based 32-bit MCUs at its booth at Embedded Technology 2009. The exhibition will be held at PACIFICO YOKOHAMA, Japan, from Wednesday, November 18, to Friday, November 20, 2009. Both demonstrations run on an operating system (OS) from eForce Co., Ltd., a developer and manufacturer of embedded software, using applications from ZIPS Corporation, a vendor of middleware (TCP/IP) and firmware. 
32-bit MCU Families With Ethernet, CAN, USB and 128kB RAM Extend Portfolio via High-Performance ConnectivityMicrochip is building on the success of its 80MHz 32-bit PIC32 microcontroller (MCU) portfolio with three new families. The new PIC32MX5/6/7 families are designed specifically for data-intensive applications running several software stacks simultaneously and are complemented by Microchip's free software stacks, making it easier for embedded designers to add connectivity to their applications. 
Renesas Technology to Release High-Performance 16-Bit Secure MCUs with Dual Interface and MIFARE Plus S Support for Multifunction Smart CardsRenesas Technology Europe today announced the development of the RS-4 Dual Interface Series of high-performance 16-bit secure MCUs. Built around the proven RS-4 high-performance 16-bit CPU core while providing dual interface capability for contact and contactless communication and MIFARE Plus support, the new MCUs are intended for smart card applications requiring multifunctionality and high security, such as financial services cards issued by banks or credit card companies and ID cards. The first products in the series will be the RS44X, RS45X, and RS46X. Sample shipments of the version without MIFARE Plus of the RS44X and RS45X will begin in November 2009 and of the RS46X in February 2010. The MIFARE Plus S versions of the RS44X and RS45X will start sample shipment in March 2010 and the RS46X in June 2010. Atmel Launches AT90SDC100/104 Dual-Core Secure Microcontrollers For Growing PayTV MarketAtmel Corporation, a leader in microcontroller-based solutions, today announced the industry's first dual-core secure microcontrollers targeting demanding smart card applications such as the growing PayTV conditional access market. 
Atmel AVR Microcontroller Targets High-volume USB Smart Card Reader ApplicationsAtmel has announced a new Atmel AVR microcontroller designed for the smart card reader market. Targeting the low-cost, high volume market, Atmel's new AT90SCR050 is a complete system solution that enables designers to bring their products faster-to-market. The AT90SCR050 includes an industry-proven Atmel AVR microcontroller, 16 KB of ROM, USB FS2.0 and smart card interface with an integrated DC/DC to support cards compliant with the EMV L1 requirement and ISO7816. These features offer designers a complete system solution to help bring their high-volume products to market at cost-effective price points. Freescale - 8-bit MCU optimized for industrial and automotive motor controlFreescale Semiconductor is expanding its embedded motor control portfolio with the introduction of the S08MP16. This entry-level 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) family provides a safe, accurate and cost-optimized solution for brushless DC (BLDC) motor control applications ranging from industrial drives to automotive fuel pumps. Low-Cost Cortex-M0 MCU from NXP targets 8/16-bit applicationsNXP today announced the availability of its ARM® Cortex™-M0 based LPC1100 microcontroller family from distributors in December. NXP's LPC1100 is the lowest-priced 32-bit MCU solution in the market, bringing higher value and ease of use than existing 8/16-bit microcontroller through unprecedented performance, simplicity, low power, and more importantly, dramatic reductions in code size for all 8/16-bit applications. With 15 members initially, the LPC1100 family offers a seamless entry point for any 8/16-bit customers looking to start with the scalable ARM architecture throughout their entire range of product development. 
Energy Micro claims world's most energy efficient microcontrollerEnergy Micro has announced the availability of its first products, the 32-bit EFM32 Gecko microcontroller family. Based on the ultra-efficient ARM® Cortex(TM)-M3 microcontroller architecture, the EFM32G has been proven to extend battery life by a factor of four, consuming a quarter of the energy required by existing 8, 16 or 32-bit microcontrollers. 
16-bit All Flash Microcontrollers with Embedded IEEE 802.15.4 Radio Transceiver for ZigBee RF4CENEC Electronics today introduced its three new 16-bit All Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) with embedded IEEE802.15.4-compliant 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) radio frequency (RF) transceiver for ZigBee® RF4CE, an industry standard for remote control in consumer electronics. The new MCUs are ideal for RF remote control and provide the lowest level of power consumption in the industry. The three new MCUs come with 56 pins and 8x8mm quad flat no-leads (QFN) packages, and part numbers differ according to their flash memory capacity: the µPD78F8056 offers 64 kilobytes (KB) of flash memory, the µPD78F8057 has 96 KB, and the µPD78F8058 has 128 KB. Freescale extends product family that pioneered the smartbook category to address additional embedded marketsThe Freescale i.MX51 product family that helped establish the fast-growing smartbook category has been expanded to include new processors designed to help customers differentiate and win in automotive, industrial and consumer markets. The new devices are the i.MX514 and i.MX516 processors for automotive applications and the i.MX512 and i.MX513 processors for industrial and consumer applications. In addition to these new offerings, the previously announced i.MX515 processor is shipping in volume quantities to smartbook manufacturers and is expanding availability to include industrial and additional consumer applications. 
TI's new six-core, high-performance processors claim industry's best power efficiencyTexas Instruments today announced the availability of the industry's most power efficient, six-core DSP (digital signal processor), the TMS320C6472, targeted at process-intensive applications requiring low power consumption. To help evaluate the performance of the C6472 devices more easily and affordably, TI is also offering a multicore processors evaluation module (EVM), the TMDXEVM6472, for USD $349. 
Sundance Features TI's TMS320C6472 Multicore DSP in its EVP6472 Development PlatformSundance today extended its multiprocessor solutions through the introduction of its EVP6472 embedded development platform. The EVP6472 is the industry's first off-the-shelf multiprocessor, multicore solution that features dual Texas Instruments (TI) TMS320C6472 Digital Signal Processors (DSPs). Another industry first for the EVP6472 is design support from 3L's Diamond multiprocessor tool-suite. Diamond enables easy access to the on-board 12 C64x+ cores and allows the designer to rapidly build, model, test and iterate different design architectures by moving tasks between the processor cores. Silicon Labs Introduces High-Performance Touch Sense MicrocontrollersThe new C8051F800 microcontroller (MCU) family is said to offer the industry's fastest capacitive touch sense capability. Leveraging Silicon Labs' patent-pending sensing technology, the F800 family enables developers to add sophisticated touch sense interfaces to a wide range of consumer and industrial electronics products such as set-top boxes, residential light controls, thermostat controls, home security panels, commercial point-of-sale (POS) interfaces, portable electronic devices and small appliances. 
Twenty-nine Stellaris MCUs from TI claim unparalleled memory, connectivity and package optionsProviding developers with greater flexibility to meet embedded design requirements, Texas Instruments has announced the expansion and reduced pricing of its Stellaris ARM Cortex-M3-based microcontroller (MCU) family. Twenty-nine new Stellaris MCUs include unique IP for motion control applications, intelligent analog functionality and expanded advanced connectivity options to provide a broad range of price/performance solutions for industrial applications. The portfolio also offers extended memory range pin-compatibility, along with new compact packages for space and cost savings. 
TI expands embedded processor portfolio with new ARM family coresTexas Instruments Incorporated today announced the major expansion of its embedded processor portfolio, adding 31 new ARM processors that provide customers with scalable solutions ranging from a $1 to greater than 1 GHz in future devices. The new processors include 29 Stellaris Cortex-M3 microcontrollers and the first two devices in the new Sitara family of ARM9 family and Cortex-A8 technology-based microprocessors. This portfolio expansion builds on TI's recent Luminary Micro acquisition and adds to the industry's broadest range of ARM technology-based processors offered by a single supplier. ST Unveils ARM Cortex-M Series Microcontrollers Featuring Advanced 90nm Embedded Flash TechnologySTMicroelectronics has achieved a breakthrough for microcontrollers based on the ARM Cortex-M series of processor cores by announcing the industry's first devices featuring embedded Flash at 90nm process technology. 
Renesas Technology - High-speed SuperH microcontroller for automotive engine control with 3,75MB on-chip flash memoryRenesas Technology Europe today announced the SH72546R SuperH Family microcontroller designed for use in automotive engine and transmission control systems. The device combines high-speed operation of up to 200 MHz with flash memory capacity of 3.75 MB. Sample shipments will begin this month. 
Automotive safety-critical systems move forward with next-generation microcontrollers from STMicroelectronics and FreescaleFreescale Semiconductor and STMicroelectronics, leading semiconductor suppliers to the automotive industry, have introduced a new dual-core microcontroller (MCU) family aimed at functional safety applications for car electronics. The 32-bit devices help engineers address the challenge of applying sophisticated safety concepts to comply with current and future safety standards. The dual-core MCU family also includes features that help engineers focus on application design and simplify the challenges of safety concept development and certification. 
Solid State Supplies adds low power microcontroller line Energy Micro to its linecardSolid State Supplies has signed a distribution agreement with Energy Micro, supplier of the world's lowest power microcontrollers. Solid State Supplies will distribute Energy Micro's EFM32 microcontrollers in the UK from September 1st. The EFM32 is the first 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 product that addresses the low power mixed-signal microcontroller market and is ideal for ultra-low power and battery operated applications. 
ATA874x - Atmel's AVR Microcontrollers Now Integrate RF Transmitter Functionality to Address Industrial ApplicationsAtmel Corporation today announced the first ATA874x single-chip UHF ASK/FSK RF transmitter family targeting a broad range of proprietary wireless industrial and consumer applications such as metering, alarm systems and home control applications. This new AVR product family offers industry-leading RF performance operating in the license-free ISM frequency bands (868 to 928 MHz, 433 MHz, and 315 MHz). RS Components to highlight MCUs and development kits from Microchip and TI at ESC UK 2009RS Components is showcasing new microcontrollers and development kits including those from Microchip and TI on Stand 323 at this week's Embedded Systems Conference and Exhibition at the Farnborough International Show Centre (FIVE). 
MSP430F4xx - TI expands its smart metering portfolio with 16 new MSP430 MCUs supporting a broad range of implementation standardsDue to increased legislation and various implementation standards across the United States and Europe, utilities are seeking compliant metering solutions that will meet stringent energy efficiency guidelines. Expanding its smart metering portfolio to address these needs, Texas Instruments Incorporated today announced 16 new ultra-low power MSP430 microcontrollers targeted at electricity and gas metering applications. These new MSP430F4xx devices are highly integrated solutions that can support standalone analog front-end needs and achieve leading accuracy results of better than 0.1 percent. Texas Instruments - 720 MHz processor targeted at multimedia applicationsGiving designers more performance to run new application features and additional headroom to add their own IP, Texas Instruments has announced a speed upgrade for the OMAP3530 applications processor and evaluation module (EVM). The new OMAP3530 processor features a 720 MHz ARM Cortex-A8 core and a 520 MHz TMS320C64x+ DSP. UTAS Medical Equipment Ensures Quality Patient Care with help from Analog Devices' Blackfin ProcessorsAnalog Devices has announced that UTAS, a provider of medical devices for patient monitoring and diagnostics, has selected ADI Blackfin processors to ensure high-performance digital signal processing operations and robust functionality across its full line of products – highlighted by UTAS' most recent product introduction, the UM 300 portable patient monitor. Leveraging Blackfin's performance, low power consumption and flexible peripheral connectivity alongside complementary precision analogue components also from ADI, UTAS achieved high-performance operations and a seamlessly connected signal chain in a cost effective, compact system package. Atmel Offers microcontroller with 128 KB of Flash for Ultra-Low-Power ApplicationsAtmel has announced the availability of a 128 KB picoPower megaAVR microcontroller, targeting size-constrained, low-power applications. The small 44-pin package makes the ATmega1284P ideal for applications such as wireless and ethernet nodes, home automation and other code-intensive battery or signal-line powered products, combined with its ultra-low-power consumption, 128 KB of flash and 16 KB of random access memory (RAM). UTAS Medical Equipment Ensures High Quality Patient Care With Help From Analog Devices’ Blackfin ProcessorsAnalog Devices has announced that UTAS, a provider of medical devices for patient monitoring and diagnostics, has selected ADI Blackfin processors to ensure high-performance digital signal processing operations and robust functionality across its full line of products – highlighted by UTAS' most recent product introduction, the UM 300 portable patient monitor. Leveraging Blackfin's performance, low power consumption and flexible peripheral connectivity alongside complementary precision analog components also from ADI, UTAS achieved high-performance operations and a seamlessly connected signal chain in a cost effective, compact system package. Arm And NXP Launch mbed To Enable Rapid Prototyping With MicrocontrollersARM and NXP, the independent semiconductor company founded by Philips, today announced at Embedded Systems Conference (ESC), Boston, mbed.org and the mbed microcontroller rapid prototyping tools. With the market for 32-bit microcontrollers set for explosive growth, the ability for new markets to adopt and exploit modern microcontroller technology becomes a critical success factor. To maximise these opportunities ARM has developed mbed, the industry's first online platform for fast, low-risk prototyping of microcontroller-based systems. The mbed tools launch with integral hardware and software support for the NXP LPC1768 ARM® Cortex™-M3 processor-based MCU, making cutting-edge microcontroller technology accessible to a wide audience. Freescale offers low-power option for networking applicationsCode and pin compatibility with the QorIQ P4080 processor further extends Freescale's advanced multicore architecture. The new processor combines control, datapath and application layer processing, which lowers part counts, reduces system cost and shrinks product footprints. The P4040 is well-suited for wireless infrastructure, enterprise routing and switching and industrial applications. 
STMicroelectronics - New 8-bit Microcontrollers Are First Implementation of Ultra-Low-Power Technology PlatformSTMicroelectronics has begun volume production of the first microcontrollers to combine its high-performance 8-bit architecture with the company's recently announced ultra-low-power innovations to save power in active modes as well as when idle. The STM8L product family comprises 26 devices in three lines spanning a broad spectrum of performance and function. Green Hills Software Supports Texas Instruments Power-Efficient OMAP-L137 ProcessorGreen Hills Software has announced the availability of its embedded software development solution for the Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) OMAP-L137 low-power applications processor based on the ARM926EJ-S core. Green Hills Software's ARM-optimized solution includes the INTEGRITY real-time operating system (RTOS), MULTI integrated development environment (IDE), optimizing C/C++ compilers, and Green Hills Probe. Green Hills Software brings more than 27 years of experience in the embedded market to TI's OMAP-L137 processor, enabling developers to create and deploy reliable, high-performance products for industrial control, networking, transportation, medical, and a wide variety of other embedded applications in the least amount of time and at the lowest cost. Freescale i.MX processor powers Sharp’s NetWalker deviceFreescale Semiconductor technology is powering the recently announced Sharp NetWalker (PC-Z1) product – a lightweight, compact consumer device that offers instant-on functionality and mobile phone-like battery life. The advanced capabilities of the Freescale i.MX515 processor help the NetWalker PC-Z1 product deliver compelling functionality for the smartbook category such as ultra-long battery life and a streamlined form factor. Freescale samples eight-core QorIQ P4080 processorFreescale Semiconductor is now sampling its QorIQ P4080 multicore processor – the flagship member of Freescale's QorIQ product family and the company's fourth device now available based on 45-nm process technology for optimal performance and power efficiency. Freescale speeds adoption of LTE and other 4G wireless standardsArrow announces availability of 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontrollersArrow Electronics UK has announced it now offers embedded system developers access to the Luminary Micro Stellaris family of 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontrollers and associated development support tools. Devices in the Stellaris family combine the Cortex-M3 core running at up to 50MHz with a variety of peripherals and interfaces that provide significant control-processing and connectivity capabilities. As well as the full range of Stellaris microcontrollers, Arrow will also stock and support associated evaluation and reference kits. Mouser Electronics Now Stocking Freescale’s MCF5225x ColdFire MicrocontrollersMouser Electronics, Inc., known for its rapid introduction of the newest products, today announced it is stocking the Freescale Semiconductor MCF5225x family of ColdFire®Microcontrollers. Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. is an industry leader in the design and manufacture of embedded semiconductors. Freescale processor with integrated mixed signal technology reduces system cost and design complexityManufacturers targeting a broad range of consumer and embedded markets can lower costs and streamline product design with one of the first i.MX applications processors from Freescale Semiconductor to integrate mixed signal technology. The device will be showcased at upcoming Freescale Technology Forum events in Shenzhen, China and Bangalore, India. Atmel Expands 6-pin picoPower AVR Microcontroller FamilyAtmel has announced today three new 6-pin picoPower AVR microcontrollers. The ATtiny4, ATtiny5, and ATtiny9 are targeted towards size and cost constrained high volume consumer applications requiring processing power and low current consumption. These new devices are all pin and code compatible, offering a rich feature set including 512bytes or 1K byte of programmable Flash memory, 32 bytes of internal SRAM, 4-channel 8-bit A/D converter (in ATtiny5), analog comparator, and a 16-bit timer with PWM. ARM - Ultra Low-Power Physical IP Technology To Drive Next-Generation MCU DevicesARM has announced the availability of ultra low-power Physical IP libraries to drive the next generation of energy-efficient MCU devices. The ARM 0.18µm ultra low power libraries (uLL), coupled with the inherent power management advantages of the ARM Cortex processor family and the TSMC 0.18µm embedded flash uLL/HDR "high data retention" process provides SoC designers with additional reduction in power leakage up to 10x compared to 0.18um G implementations. 
Microchip's First PIC Microcontrollers Featuring Enhanced Mid-Range 8-bit CoreMicrochip has announced the first six members of the PIC16F193X family of microcontrollers, featuring Microchip's enhanced mid-range 8-bit core. The increased memory and core capabilities deliver enhanced support for both C and Assembly programmers, while the 'LF' family members feature Microchip's nanoWatt XLP Technology for extreme low power operation. 
Connectivity made smarter via TI’s new MSP430 MCUs with embedded full-speed USBWith wide adoption of USB connectivity, designers are seeking smart embedded processing solutions that bring unique advantages to their applications such as longer battery life, portability and versatility. Providing easy, advanced connectivity with a robust portfolio, Texas Instruments today announced the new MSP430F55xx microcontroller (MCU) family with embedded full-speed USB (12 Mbps). 
Atmel Introduces Radiation-Hardened SPARC V8 Processor for Space MissionsAtmel has announced a new radiation-hardened SPARC processor for space applications, the AT697 Revision F delivering 90 MIPs at 100 MHz over full temperature and voltage ranges for only 0.7W. With more than 1600 flight models of its predecessor, the TSC695E, sold around the world, Atmel has an unrivalled flight heritage on this SPARC V7 processor version. 
IAR Systems adds support for Atmel’s ARM Cortex-M3 based SAM3U microcontrollerIAR Systems has announced that IAR Embedded Workbench for ARM and IAR PowerPac for ARM now feature full support for the Atmel ARM Cortex-M3-based SAM3U microcontroller (MCU) family. In close cooperation with Atmel, IAR Systems has added new configuration files, flash loaders and project examples to IAR Embedded Workbench for ARM for Atmel's new SAM3U Cortex-M3 based microcontroller. The device specific support achieved by these additions makes it quick and easy to get started with a project and allows the user to concentrate on application development tasks. In-System Emulation Technology supports latest Infineon XC16x ProcessorsGOEPEL has developed a dedicated model library for the Infineon processor family, XC16x that supports the innovative emulation technology VarioTAP. The libraries, described as VarioTAP models, are structured modularly as intelligent IP and enable a complete fusion of Boundary Scan test and JTAG emulation. By employing this technology, embedded and external flash can be in-system programmed with the help of the processor function. Furthermore, VarioTAP supports interlaced Bus Emulation Tests (BET) and System Emulation Tests (SET) for extended JTAG/Boundary Scan functionality. 
Keil announces support for the STM32 Connectivity LineKeil has announced immediate support for the STMicroelectronics STM32 Connectivity Line in the Keil MDK-ARM (Microcontroller Development Kit) and RL-ARM (Real-Time Library). Keil has also introduced the new MCBSTM32C evaluation board and starter kit. 
Keil MCB1760 Evaluation Board And Starter Kit For NXPCortex Processor-based Family ReleasedKeil has released the MCB1760 evaluation board and starter kit to support the NXP LPC1700 Cortex-M3 processor-based family. The MCB1760 evaluation board features a LPC1768 microcontroller running at up to 100MHz, together with a color QVGA LCD, Ethernet, USB, CAN, SD/MMC card interface, and UARTs. 
NEC Electronics Introduces 15 New 32-bit All Flash Microcontrollers for Inverter ControlNEC Electronics today announced the availability of 15 new 32-bit All Flash V850 microcontrollers for inverter control and motor control applications such as air conditioners, washing machines, dryers, factory automation (FA) equipment, and photovoltaic power systems. These products are in line with NEC Electronics' strategy to develop semiconductor solutions to enable energy efficient products. 
IAR Embedded Workbench drives up to 30% additional power savings for Atmel’s new picoPower AVR32 familyIAR Systems has announced the immediate availability of support in IAR Embedded Workbench for Atmel's recently announced picoPower AVR32 UC3L microcontroller family that features a built-in hardware capacitive touch controller. 
Microcontroller Offers Performance and Flexibility For Price Sensitive Industrial ApplicationsCML Microsystems has unveiled a new RISC/DSP Microcontroller product from its specialist semiconductor and microprocessor daughter-company, Hyperstone. The new E2 is a high-performance, RoHS compliant 32-Bit RISC/DSP microcontroller, with advanced features such as a programmable serial communications engine, ADC unit, 32kb of on-chip I-RAM, complemented with an external memory and peripheral interface controller. 
Atmel - Microcontroller said to lower Industry’s Best Power Consumption by 63%Atmel announced today the availability of its 32-bit AT32UC3L AVR32 microcontroller with Atmel's picoPower low power technology and embedded capacitive touch controller peripheral. The AT32UC3L is the industry's lowest power 32-bit MCU with less than 0.48 mW/MHz in active mode executing real-life applications. The device is also the first 32-bit microcontroller to feature a built-in capacitive touch interface, making the device suitable in a wide range of embedded applications. The introduction of AT32UC3L expands Atmel's 32-bit MCU portfolio consisting of ARM and AVR32 products. 
STMicroelectronics - STM32 Connectivity Line Microcontrollers with Ethernet, USB OTG, CAN2.0B, and Audio-Class I2S PeripheralsSTMicroelectronics has confirmed full production availability of its latest STM32 Connectivity Line microcontrollers built on the ARM Cortex-M3 processor, as forecast when the company announced its new devices in March at Embedded World 2009. The STM32 Connectivity Line allows developers to take advantage of industry-standard 32-bit processing in designs requiring simultaneous Ethernet, USB, CAN and audio-class I2S capabilities. Two variants are available, including the STM32F105 series combining a Full-Speed USB 2.0 Host/Device/OTG peripheral and two CAN2.0B controllers with advanced filtering capabilities. 
Low-power 8-bit micro can drive LCDs with up to 2560 pixelsToshiba Electronics Europe has announced a new 8-bit microcontroller that combines high performance operation with a variety of integrated peripherals and the ability to drive 80 segment LCD displays with up to 2560 pixels. The new TMP89FS28LFG delivers performance comparable to many 16-bit alternatives while reducing the component count of embedded industrial and appliance designs requiring display interfaces. NXP Expands Lowest Cost ARM9 MCU SeriesNXP Semiconductors has announced the expansion of its ARM9-based product portfolio with the addition of the LPC314x and LPC315x devices to the LPC31xx series. Built around a high-performance ARM926EJ processor core, the NXP LPC314x devices provide several new features over the LPC313x devices including an AES Decryption Engine and a secure One-Time-Programmable (OTP) memory. Running at 270MHz, the LPC314x also offer a 50 percent increase in speed over the LPC313x devices. The LPC315x devices run at 180MHz and further add a Stereo Audio CODEC, Power Supply Unit and a Battery Charger. Ultra-Low-Power Technology Platform for 8-bit and 32-bit Micros Enable Next-Generation Power-Saving ProductsSTMicroelectronics has announced details of a new ultra-low-power technology platform for building a range of 8-bit and 32-bit microcontrollers, which will enable future generations of electronic products to consume less power, meet evolving energy-efficiency standards, and operate for longer from their batteries. Meeting these increasing demands requires looking at all aspects of microcontroller design and process technology to maximize improvements in all areas. 
Low-power ARM9 microcontroller with integrated support for man machine interfacesThe latest addition to Toshiba Electronics Europe's family of scalable, low-power ARM-based microcontrollers allows designers to quickly and easily add man-machine interface (MMI) functionality to their embedded designs. The TMPA912CMAXBG is based on the 32-bit ARM926EJ-S core and is ideal for embedded systems that require integrated display control and graphic processing capabilities but do not need all of the performance, memory and functionality offered by previous models in the Toshiba ARM9 family. Full pin and software compatibility with other members of the family protects investment by supporting upgrades to higher end devices as necessary with minimum system redesign. 
Easy-to-use, cost-efficient energy management with Virtual Extension wireless mesh networks and TI technologyVirtual Extension has selected Texas Instruments' embedded processing technology as the preferred solution to power its VEmesh Wireless Mesh Networks. TI's ultra-low power microcontroller and RF technology helps boost performance, minimize cost, reduce board space and speed time to market of VEmesh network applications. Optimized for applications requiring high performance, such as automated meter reading (AMR), Virtual Extension's innovative Diversity Path Mesh technology transmits simultaneously a multitude of radio paths, creating a robust wireless network for 100 percent area coverage. With this technology, utilities can realize savings in terms of data collection, theft prevention, remote operation and prepaid services. Developers of control, automation and instrumentation applications can jumpstart designs with TI’s new MCU kitsThe growing demand for advanced connectivity and complex control in industrial, consumer and medical applications requires high-performance, integrated microcontrollers (MCUs) coupled with solid tools and software. Addressing this need, Texas Instruments today announced availability of four cost-efficient development kits supporting the fourth generation of its ARM Cortex-M3-based Stellaris MCUs. 
Atmel's ARM Cortex-M3 Flash MCU with on-chip High Speed USB Device-and-TransceiverAtmel has announced the SAM3U, the industry's first ARM Cortex-M3 Flash microcontroller integrating high speed (480 Mbps) USB Device-and-Transceiver, 4-bit 192 Mbps SDIO/SDCard 2.0, 8-bit 384 Mbps MMC 4.3 Host and 48 Mpbs SPI interfaces on-chip. This connectivity, together with the SAM3U's 96 MHz/1.25 DMIPS/MHz operating frequency, makes the SAM3U the unique Cortex-M3 device suited to applications with intensive communications requirements, such high speed gateways in industrial, medical, data processing and consumer applications. The introduction of the SAM3U expands Atmel's 32-Bit MCU portfolio consisting of ARM and AVR32 products. 
High Performance MCU in Only 2x2 Mm2 from Silicon LabsSilicon Laboratories has announced the expansion of its best-in-class small form factor microcontrollers (MCUs) with the C8051T606 low cost 8-bit mixed-signal MCU. The world's smallest MCU, the C8051T606 provides a high degree of functional density for programmable embedded systems in a tiny 2x2 mm2 footprint. The high-performance CPU enables greater design flexibility, and the integration of a voltage monitor and precision oscillator make the T606 ideal for space-constrained applications such as portable consumer products and accessories, gateways, and LED lighting. NXP Claims Industry’s Lowest Power Cortex-M3 based microcontrollersNXP has introduced what it says is the industry's lowest power 32-bit Cortex-M3 based microcontrollers, maintaining its commitment to innovation in energy-efficiency and further extending its broad range of ARM-based processors. The new NXP LPC1300 series, based on the Cortex™-M3 Rev2 core and designed for embedded 16 and 32-bit applications, operates at 70MHz and consumes approximately 200 µA per MHz, delivering advanced energy management alongside superior levels of integration. 
High-speed debugger interface supports ARM Cortex devicesDevelopment support for microprocessor devices based on the ARM Cortex architecture is now available on the Abatron BDI3000 high-speed debugger from Computer Solutions. The new cores supported are the ARM Cortex-A8, such as the TI OMAP3430 family, and the ARM Cortex-M3, which includes the STM32 family, the LPC1700 and the whole of the Luminary Micro LM3S range. Both device families are supported by the JTAG interface on the BDI3000, and there is additional support for the single-wire debug port (SW-DP). The BDI3000 then acts as an external server connecting to the popular GDB debugging package via Ethernet. 
Toshiba's entry-level, low-power ARM9 microcontrollerToshiba Electronics Europe has added an entry-level device to its family of scalable, low-power ARM-based microcontrollers. The new TMPA913CHAXBG provides a cost-effective and low component count solution for industrial designs requiring high-speed USB connectivity and external memory management. Quadros Supports MPC55xx Microcontroller FamilyUpdating its support for PowerPC processors, Quadros Systems has announced support for the MPC55xx series of 32-bit microcontrollers from Freescale Semiconductor. Developers can now combine the efficiency, flexibility and scalability of the RTXC software family with the low-cost, high performance MPC55xx family. GStreamer plug-in from TI provides a uniform open source multimedia framework for OMAP35x processors and DaVinci technologyMinimizing the complexity of software integration with a uniform open source multimedia framework, Texas Instruments has announced a new GStreamer plug-in for developers designing with OMAP35x processors and digital media processors based on DaVinci technology. With the new GStreamer plug-in, embedded Linux developers can leverage an open source library to incorporate audio and video playback, audio and video synchronization and recording capabilities into their designs. 
Atmel Targets Automotive LIN Networking Applications with Introduction of AVR MicrocontrollerAtmel has announced the availability of a new AVR 8-bit microcontroller for automotive LIN networking applications. The ATtiny87 is the second device of a LIN-dedicated low pin-count family specially optimized for cost-sensitive LIN slave applications. NEC Electronics releases fully certified IEC software librariesNEC Electronics Europe today announced the release of fully certified IEC software libraries for its 78K0 and 78K0R microcontroller families, enabling cost effective high performance solutions for industrial, appliance and motor control markets. The certified software libraries simplify the testing and end product approvals for compliance with the requirements of the IEC 60730-1/60335-1 safety standards, when used in microcontroller based appliances. NEC Electronics Maintains Leading Supplier Position for 32-bit Microcontrollers in 2008NEC Electronics Corporation has announced that the company has retained the number one supplier ranking for 32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs) worldwide based on revenue in 2007 and 2008 as ranked by Gartner in its April 2009 report. In addition, the company has moved into the number one position for 32-bit automotive MCUs, and the number two position for overall MCUs, and the number two position for 8-bit MCUs. NXP claims industry’s highest performance Cortex-M3 based microcontrollersNXP has confirmed that the LPC1700 series is the industry's highest performance Cortex-M3 microcontroller, based on results from the Embedded Microprocessor Benchmark Consortium (EEMBC). The EEMBC results show that the LPC1700 executes application code on average 35% faster than the leading Cortex-M3 competitors when running at the same clock speeds. NXP's performance advantage is even greater when the LPC1700 runs at higher clock speeds. ARM licenses SecurCoreR SC300T processor to ToshibaARM has announced it has licensed the ARM SecurCore SC300 processor to Toshiba Corporation for use in future embedded security applications. The SC300 processor is based upon the popular Cortex-M3 processor "By licensing the ARM SecurCore SC300 processor, we will be able to provide our customers with a range of innovative smartcard IC solutions," said Tatsuo Noguchi, SoC Technology executive of Semiconductor Company, Toshiba Corporation. "Toshiba plans to combine high performance and low-power 32-bit ARM SecurCore processors with our established capabilities in semiconductors for mobile phone handsets and security systems to deliver the most advanced secure solutions for tomorrow's applications." 
VIVOTEK's 2-megapixel network camera based on new DM365 digital media processor from TITexas Instruments has announced that its TMS320DM365 digital media processor based on DaVinci technology has been selected by VIVOTEK, one of the leading global suppliers of IP surveillance equipments, to drive its new high performance 2-megapixel network cameras. VIVOTEK's new IP8161 dual-mode (night/day) network camera supports H.264 compression, providing outstanding image quality and superior streaming efficiency. With the built-in removable IR-cut filter, the new camera provides day and night functionality for 24-hour surveillance, providing comprehensive protection for open spaces with high security demands, such as airports and banks. 
Microchip Introduces 16-bit Microcontrollers with 20nA Sleep currentMicrochip has announced the PIC24F16KA family of 16-bit microcontrollers (MCUs) with new nanoWatt XLPTM eXtreme Low Power Technology. The PIC24F16KA family features the world's lowest sleep current consumption microcontrollers, with typical sleep currents as low as 20nA. Low power, combined with integrated EEPROM in a small footprint and low pin-count package makes the four members of the PIC24F16KA MCU family ideal for battery powered, energy harvesting and other power-constrained applications. 
Microchip's Microcontrollers with Sleep Currents less than 20nAMicrochip has announced what it says is the world's lowest power sleep current for 8-bit microcontrollers (MCUs). The PIC18F46J11 and PIC18F46J50 MCUs feature Microchip's new nanoWatt XLPTM eXtreme Low Power Technology, which enables typical sleep currents of less than 20nA. The new nanoWatt XLP technology gives designers the flexibility to customise their applications for the lowest power consumption through multiple internal wake-up sources, such as Real-Time Clock and Calendar alarm; Brown-Out Resets, and interrupts and watch-dog timers, all while maintaining I/O states. 
NEC Electronics Announces Shine it! demo kitNEC Electronics Europe has announced the release of the new Shine it! demonstration kit. The kit helps developers to quickly start hardware and software design for LED lighting systems and other drive applications even with minimal microcontroller experience. Shine It! features NEC Electronics' µPD78F8024 microcontroller, part of a new family of devices combining microcontrollers with 4 channels of high current LED driver in a single package. 
NEC Introduces Two 8-Bit Microcontrollers With Integrated Constant High Current DriversNEC Electronics today introduced two new 8-bit All Flash general-purpose microcontrollers (MCUs) that can be used in control applications such as LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting, home electric cookers and chargers. The new devices combine NEC Electronics' All Flash 78K0/KB2 microcontrollers with constant high current drivers in a single package. The part numbers differ according to their Flash memory capacity; μPD78F8024 offers 8 kilobytes and μPD78F8025 offers 32 kilobytes of Flash memory. 
Renesas expands SH/Tiny Flash microcontroller rangeRenesas Technology has added 16Kbyte Flash versions to its popular line-up of low pin count, SH/Tiny Flash microcontrollers. The lower memory versions provide a more flexible and cost effective solution with many advantages over DSPs. With their performance and small memory sizes, these devices are ideal to perform both real-time control and DSP functions. 
Portable medical devices become smaller, smarter with TI’s new signal-chain-on-chip MCUsTo quickly and efficiently develop reliable, convenient and low-cost medical devices, engineers require microcontrollers (MCUs) that provide low power consumption, high performance and targeted peripheral integration. Addressing this need, Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) today announced the new MSP430FG47x ultra-low power MCU series. 
Atmel Launches new AVR32 Microcontroller with High Speed Communication for Digital Audio SolutionsAtmel Corporation announced today the introduction of a new AVR32 microcontroller with high speed communication. Featuring Atmel's 91 DMIPS AVR32 CPU, the AT32UC3A3 includes Hi-Speed USB interface with On-The-Go, a dual high speed SD/MMC card interface plus SDRAM and NAND flash interface with SLC and MLC, ECC. It is targeted to the rapidly growing digital media solutions and audio player docking station markets, where Atmel has seen considerable success with the AT32UC3A introduced in 2007. The AT32UC3A3 also fits a wider range of embedded applications where fast transfer of large amounts of data is a requirement. Next-Generation V850E2M Dual Core Architecture For 32-Bit V850 MicrocontrollersNEC Electronics has unveiled the V850E2M microcontroller unit (MCU) featuring dual-core for eco-friendly performance and high reliability in automotive and industrial automation systems. An extension of the company's V850 and V850E architectures, the new 32-bit core is highly scalable to compete with 16- and 32-bit devices, and provides increased functionality while lowering energy requirements and increasing development efficiency. 
Secure Microcontroller Offers Low Pin Count and Small Footprint for Financial Terminal ApplicationsMaxim has introduced the MAXQ1850, a high-performance 32-bit RISC microcontroller for the financial terminal market. The MAXQ1850 integrates security supervisory features, advanced encryption acceleration, and 8KB of nonvolatile memory (NV SRAM) around a 32-bit MAXQ microcontroller core. The microcontroller also has the lowest pin count and smallest footprint available for applications that require a high level of physical and logical security. 
Atmel Takes Industry’s Leading Position in 6-pin MicrocontrollersAtmel Corporation announced today its new picoPower™ AVR® ATtiny10, with 1K bytes of programmable Flash memory, and 32 bytes of internal SRAM. With up to 12 MIPS of processing throughput, 8-bit A/D converter, analog comparator, and a 16-bit timer with PWM, this 6-pin device is a perfect single-chip solution for size and cost constrained high volume consumer applications. 
Fujitsu Expands Lineup of Low Pin Count 8-bit Microcontrollers for Consumer AppliancesFujitsu Microelectronics has expanded its line-up of low pin count microcontrollers with three new series in its F2MC-8FX family of high-performance 8-bit microcontrollers featuring 8, 16, and 20 pins. The MB95260H, MB95270H and MB95280H series contain embedded dual-operation flash memory and support E2PROM emulation, which allows a reduction in system cost, as E2PROM does not need to be connected to the microcontroller. 
NEC Electronics' new 78K Primer KitNEC Electronics has announced the release of the 78K Primer Kit. This learning tool introduces NEC Electronics' industry-leading 78K microcontroller family and is designed to help and educate newcomers to get started quickly and easily both with 78K0 8-bit and the 78K0R 16-bit microcontrollers. The 78K Primer Kit is designed for engineers and students who are not yet familiar with NEC Electronics' 78K microcontrollers. The kit holds hardware materials, development tools, software tools and documentation such as presentations and tutorials. 
Complete System Solution for Differential Sensors in Automotive Body-Electronics ApplicationsMaxim has introduced the newest member of its MAXQ RISC microcontroller product line: the MAXQ7670 system-on-chip (SoC), mixed-signal microcontroller for sensor applications. A highly sensitive, cost-effective automotive microcontroller for low-amplitude signals, the MAXQ7670 delivers the lowest-cost, most complete system solution for measuring signals in the microvolt range from sensors with differential outputs, such as anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) sensors. AMR sensors are typically used for contactless sensing of linear or angular displacement in automotive or industrial applications. Blackfin stars in surveilance and machine vision with video analytics from IntellivisionWith leading camera developers worldwide already designing its Blackfin processor into surveillance and machine vision cameras, Analog Devices has announced the availability of IntelliVision's video analytics and intelligence solutions for Blackfin. IntelliVision's video analytics solutions are used extensively in automated monitoring, surveillance and security solutions to identify and react to suspicious activities without the need for operator intervention. The combination of these two technologies enables engineers to develop intelligent cameras based on proven and mature software modules that are cost effective and optimized for Blackfin. The processor has become a popular choice for camera makers who need high performance video processing, compression and streaming along with low power consumption and easy design. 
Luminary Micro Demonstrates 4th Generation of Stellaris Family Products on a New Development PlatformLuminary Micro has announced the new Stellaris DK-LM3S9B96 Development Kit platform in support of the ten new Stellaris family members launched earlier this month. The new development kit provides users access to all the features of the new Stellaris microcontrollers, including new combinations of connectivity, data efficiency, and advanced motion control. Analog Devices' Blackfin Processor Helps Onkyo's New Digital Audio SystemOnkyo, a leading global name in audio/video components and home theatre systems, has designed its new BR-925 CD/HDD receiver system around the Blackfin BF532 convergent processor from Analog Devices. Onkyo, whose stated philosophy is to "deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence," chose the Blackfin processor for its ability to meet specific design goals for the BR-925 digital audio system. These objectives included value, a rich set of features, connectivity capabilities, and the kind of unmatched sound quality usually associated with more expensive systems. Atmel’s Customizable Microcontroller Provides Low-cost Migration Path to High-volume ASICsAtmel has announced a low-cost re-targeting flow for migrating designs from its low entry-cost AT91CAP ARM-based customizable microcontrollers to its ASICs that minimize unit cost in high volume. This flow, based on automated netlist re-targeting that preserves system functionality, enables customers to benefit from the low development costs and rapid prototype availability of the CAP™ and then, once the product has been proved in its application, transition it to a high-volume, unit-cost-optimized ASIC at minimal additional cost and risk. 
Atmel Brings ARM Processor-based Custom SoCs to 10K-unit Apps with No License FeesAtmel has announced its CAP7L customizable microcontroller that allows fabless semiconductor companies to implement ARM7 processor-based systems-on-chip (SoCs) with a turn-around period as low as 12 weeks, a nominal NRE charge of only $75,000, and unit costs as low as $5, without requiring a separate licence from ARM. 
NEC Electronics launches Two PLUG IT! Starter KitsNEC Electronics Europe has announced the release of two Plug it! starter kits to evaluate Full Speed 12 Mbps USB 2.0 function and host communications implemented in its 32-bit V850ES/Jx3-H and V850ES/Jx3–U microcontroller range. V850ES/Jx3-H has Full Speed 12 Mbps USB 2.0 function capability whilst V850ES/Jx3–U incorporates both Full Speed 12 Mbps USB 2.0 host and function capabilities. 
Renesas releases first microcontrollers in RX Family offering industry-top-level code efficiencyRenesas Technology has announced the first RX Family microcontroller products built around the new RX CPU that is destined to become the mainstay of the company's business in serving global embedded systems markets. The RX CPU implements a complex instruction set computer (CISC) architecture that integrates and significantly extends the capabilities of Renesas' existing 16-bit and 32-bit MCU products, while providing compatibility that protects customer designs that use existing Renesas MCUs. 
Toshiba expands family of extended temperature ARM9 microcontrollersToshiba has expanded its family of low-power ARM-based microcontrollers with a new device that can help to reduce the component count and cost of embedded industrial designs supporting human machine interface (HMI) applications. The new device further enhances the scalability of the Toshiba ARM9 family, helping designers to select the optimum price/performance point for their target applications. NXP demonstrates world's first functional Cortex-M0 siliconNXP has announced what it says is the world's first functional ARM Cortex-M0 silicon. The Cortex-M0 processor represents a breakthrough in terms of size, low power and energy efficiency while its simplicity makes it one of the easiest architectures to use on the market today. As the first Cortex-M0 processor licensee, NXP will present fully functional Cortex-M0 silicon demonstrations at the Embedded Systems Conference Silicon Valley, March 30 - April 2, booth 1010. The NXP demonstration will showcase the Cortex-M0 processor's industry leading energy efficiency and dramatic code density improvement. 
NEC Electronics' latest Spin it! Development Kit is availableNEC Electronics has announced the release of its latest Spin it! development kit. The 78K0R – Spin it! is a single-board, low-voltage motor control development platform designed specifically for the evaluation of NEC Electronics' 16-bit 78K0R/Ix3 Motor Control MCU family. 
Microchip Unveils PICDEM Lab Development KitMicrochip has announced the PICDEM Lab Development Kit, an entry-level development platform for all of Microchip's 8-bit Flash PIC microcontrollers (MCUs) with 20 or fewer pins. Aimed at educators, students and newcomers to microcontrollers, the PICDEM Lab Development Kit comes complete with five popular 8-bit PIC MCUs, along with a selection of discrete components, a PICkit TM 2 Debugger/Programmer and a CD containing a User's Guide, labs and application examples. The kit provides everything needed to quickly and easily develop applications using Microchip's 8-bit PIC Microcontrollers. 
Atmel Collaborates with IAR Systems to Accelerate Application Development for AT91SAM ARM MicrosIAR Systems and Atmel announced today the result of their cooperation to enhance the support for Atmel's entire AT91SAM family of ARM-based Flash microcontrollers and embedded microprocessors in the latest release of IAR Embedded Workbench. The product of intensive collaborative development between the two companies, this powerful toolkit simplifies and accelerates application development for Atmel's AT91SAM micros. STMicroelectronics Announces STM8S Microcontrollers for industrial and consumer applicationsSTMicroelectronics has announced the general availability of the robust and reliable STM8S105 and STM8S207 for industrial and consumer applications. Key features of the new devices include high-performance 8-bit architecture, modular peripherals and pin-compatible packages to raise performance, scalability and value for current 8-bit and 16-bit applications. 
New ICs from Atmel Increase Battery Life While Saving SpaceAtmel has announced a new family of tinyAVR microcontrollers. These devices are targeted at applications that run from a single battery, such as AA, AAA, or coin cell. The first member of this family is the ATtiny43U. It is a perfect fit for portable battery powered consumer applications like phone accessories, remote controls, sporting goods and personal care products. ATtiny43U has 4-Kbytes of Flash memory and 64 bytes of In-System programmable EEPROM. 
NEC Electronics Announces 78K0R/Kx3-L Save it! Demonstration KitNEC Electronics Europe announces the release of the 78K0R/Kx3-L Save it! demonstration kit, supporting the recently launched 78K0R/Kx3-L microcontroller family that offers low power consumption and high levels of system integration. Save it! is designed to provide customers with a complete out-of-the-box experience for evaluation of low power consumption microcontrollers. 
Toshiba launches ARM Cortex-M3 microcontrollerToshiba has expanded its family of ARM Cortex-M3 microcontrollers with the launch of a high-performance, low-power 32-bit device that offers accurate, hardware-based vector control of high-end, three-phase motor applications. The TMPM370FY is ideal for motion control in home appliances and industrial applications where it reduces the need for additional components while providing significant benefits over software-based vector control running on a microcontroller. Renesas enhances H8S 16-bit CISC microcontroller familyRenesas Technology has announced enhancements to its H8S family of 16-bit CISC microcontrollers with the addition of the H8S/2424, H8S/2426, H8S/2426R, H8S/2454, H8S/2456 and H8S/2456R groups. These six groups comprise products suitable for use in a wide variety of applications including user interface devices, white good products, and industrial equipment. The H8S/2424 and H8S/2426 models are functionally enhanced versions of Renesas' H8S/2368 and H8S/2378 groups. 
TI's Delfino MCUs double floating-point performance for development of more intelligent, energy efficient high-end real-time control applicationsHigh-end control applications require high performance, floating-point precision and optimized control peripherals to meet stringent system efficiency, accuracy and reliability requirements. Addressing this need, Texas Instruments has announced the TMS320C2834x series of Delfino floating-point controllers that double performance to 300 MHz and include 516KB of single cycle access RAM memory, high resolution pulse width modulation outputs (PWMs), 32-bit QEP modules as well as other control-oriented features. 
8-bit direct LCD-drive microcontrollers from MicrochipMicrochip has announced the PIC18F87J90 8-bit direct LCD-drive microcontrollers (MCUs) with nanoWatt Technology, the first 8-bit MCUs to include Real-Time Clock & Calendar (RTCC) and Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU) peripherals, enabling capacitive touch-sensitive applications or precise time measurement. 
Silicon Labs Expands MCU Portfolio With High Pin-Count, Touch-Sensing DeviceSilicon Laboratories has announced the introduction of its C8051F7xx family of high pin-count MCUs for cost-sensitive, high I/O embedded systems. This family is the first to offer a new, patent-pending touch sensing feature that is robust, accurate, responsive and easy to configure. Atmel and IS2T Announce Java Support for AVR32 UC3 Flash MicrocontrollersAtmel and IS2T S.A. have announced what they say are the industry's most integrated solutions to design embedded Java applications for Flash microcontrollers. Software developers of real-time embedded systems can now design with Java up to five times faster than traditional software technologies. Taking Java to the embedded market also provides the engineering community with new opportunities to design and maintain more robust, secure and scalable applications. 
STMicroelectronics Attacks New Markets for STM32 Family in Networked, Real-Time and Audio ApplicationsSTMicroelectronics has added to its STM32 range, focusing on high-performance variants of industry-standard interfaces to allow more applications to benefit from the seamless pin-and-software compatibility between STM32 devices. The new STM32 Connectivity Line adds a Full-speed USB On-The-Go (OTG) interface, which allows end products to act as a USB Host or USB Device. There is also an Ethernet interface featuring hardware support for IEEE1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP). Implementing the protocol in hardware reduces CPU overhead and enables faster response for real-time applications and when synchronizing networked devices. 
2 Million Gate Development Kit for the AT91CAP9H Customizable MicrocontrollerAtmel Corporation announced today the launch of the AT91CAP9HA-DK Development Kit for its upcoming ARM926EJ-S-based AT91CAP9H customizable microcontroller that features 2 million gates of customizable logic. The AT91CAP9HA-DK enables customers to start developing designs now, in anticipation of the availability of the AT91CAP9H. NEC Electronics Announces FreeRTOS Support for its MicrosNEC Electronics Europe has announced the support of the open source and royalty free real-time operating system, FreeRTOS for its 16-bit 78K0R and 32-bit V850 microcontrollers. FreeRTOS is simple to use, with minimal ROM and RAM overhead and is free to use in commercial applications. The modified GPL license under which it is distributed, allows users to deploy in applications without any requirement to share their source code. NXP licenses ARM Cortex M0 ProcessorNXP has announced that it will be the first ARM Partner to license the new ARM Cortex-M0 processor. The Cortex-M0 processor is the smallest, lowest power and most energy efficient processor available from ARM. NXP intends to use the Cortex-M0 processor for a wide range of applications. Its compact size, energy efficiency and performance make it ideal for power management tasks in SoCs, ASSPs, and stand-alone microcontrollers. Potential applications include battery-powered consumer devices, advanced utility metering, lighting, intelligent power and motor control. 
NEC Electronics Expands lineup of 32-bit MicrocontrollersNEC has announced that it has developed nine new 32-bit All Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) with built-in Ethernet interface and embedded flash memory. The new products are ideal for remote and supervisory control of industrial devices and building-management systems and include six 128-pin variants, named V850ES/JH3-E and three 144-pin variants, named V850ES/JJ3-E. TI extends OMAP 3 family with 45-nm productsTo answer handset manufacturers' diverse requirements in the rapidly-evolving Smartphone and Mobile Internet Device (MID) markets, Texas Instruments has announced that it has extended its popular OMAP 3 family with new 45-nanometer (nm) products. The OMAP36x application processor family allows mobile device manufacturers to reuse their software investment in TI's popular 65-nm OMAP34x processor family and deliver higher performance computing with lower power consumption. TI expands 16 and 32-bit MCU tools portfolioBroadening its portfolio of MCU development tools to help designers create energy-efficient and ultra-low power applications quickly and easily, Texas Instruments has announced three new tools for TMS320C2000 32-bit real-time microcontrollers (MCU) and one new tool for the 16-bit MSP430F5xx ultra-low power MCU series. 
16-Bit Microcontroller From Maxim Extends Battery Life in Portable EquipmentMaxim has introduced the MAXQ610 16-bit microcontroller. Designed to extend battery life in low-power applications, this device operates from a 1.7V to 3.6V voltage range. Since battery voltages decay over the life of the battery, the wide operating-voltage range allows applications to utilize up to 15% more battery capacity than competing solutions. 
NXP accelerates German national transport ticketing with contactless microcontroller chipNXP has announced that its secure contactless microcontroller chip – SmartMX, has been selected by the VDV-Kernapplikations GmbH & Co. KG, to power future electronic transport ticketing schemes in Germany. Alongside card and inlay-manufacturer Cardag, NXP will provide SmartMX ICs for around eight million contactless cards to be issued throughout Germany by 2012. The aim of the scheme is to provide a single ticketing solution that will be used across all nationwide transport networks. 
NEC Electronics Introduces 16-bit All Flash Microcontrollers with LCD Controller/DriverNEC Electronics Corporation has announced that it has developed 12 new 16-bit All FlashTM microcontrollers (MCUs) with on-chip liquid crystal display (LCD) driver, optimized especially for the fields of handheld healthcare diagnostic instruments such as blood glucose meters, building utility meters for the gas/water/electricity markets, and FA equipment. Fujitsu Ten Adopts Analog Devices SHARC DSPFujitsu Ten's premium audio amplifiers based on the Analog Devices floating point SHARC DSP architecture enable a revolutionary automotive sound experience. This innovative technology researched and implemented by Fujitsu Ten called Acoustical Space Control Technology, not only greatly reduces vibration to the automobile chassis, but in addition compensates simultaneously for the acoustic reflective effects of the cabin glass and sonic absorption from upholstery. Furthermore, Acoustical Space Control Technology enhances and compensates for the acoustic limitations of loudspeakers such as frequency response and physical placement challenges in the cabin, resulting in a spatially enhanced audio experience. 
Toshiba announces extended temp range 32-bit ARM9 processor for industrial graphics applicationsToshiba Electronics Europe has expanded its family of low-power ARM-based microprocessors with an extended temperature device that will suit man machine interface (MMI) and other industrial applications requiring multimedia functionality. 
Powertrain control MCU features on-chip 90 nm high-speed flash memoryRenesas Technology Europe has announced the SH72531, a 32-bit MCU designed for powertrain control of automobile engines and transmissions. The device features a high-speed operation of up to 120 MHz and 1.25 megabytes of on-chip high-speed flash memory. 
New system-on-chip MCU solution from TI helps e-metering applicationsAs utility companies adopt electronic-based energy meter technology to improve grid performance and reliability, reduce costs and offer energy-saving consumer options, Texas Instruments announced the MSP430FE42x2 microcontroller (MCU) series, reducing electronic bill of materials (EBOM) to the $1 range in high volumes for single-phase electricity metering (e-metering) applications. TI's DaVinci technology powers Cernium's ArcherfishCernium will premier Archerfish, the first ever mobile video intelligence (MVI) solution to bring the power of industrial-grade video analytics technology to the consumer market, at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Archerfish delivers proactive, video-based information so consumers can keep an eye on the people and places that matter most, in a manner that fits today's connected, mobile lifestyle. 
32-bit MCUs from NEC for the automotive marketLeading 32-bit microcontroller supplier NEC Electronics has reaffirmed its commitment to the automotive market by expanding support for audio and navigation applications with its new V850E/Sx3-H microcontrollers (MCUs). Based on the company's well-established V850E1 core, the new V850E/Sx3-H devices offer the industry's highest flash memory capacity for 32-bit MCUs, in addition to improved CPU performance for today's audio and infotainment systems. These improvements, together with a small 0.5 millimeter pin pitch QFP package, make the new devices ideally suited for use in high-functionality, high-performance automotive radios, compact disc systems, DVD systems, USB/SD card readers and digital terrestrial broadcast equipment. 
8-bit Microcontrollers for Lighting Applications from NECFollowing the release of the world's first microcontroller (MCU) with four-channel constant-current drive for LED lighting systems, NEC Electronics Corporation (TSE:6723) this month began shipment of 14 new 8-bit All Flash MCUs for energy-efficient lighting applications. 
NEC Electronics Delivers 16-Bit Microcontrollers for Automotive ApplicationsNEC Electronics announced today it has expanded the company's lineup of 16-bit 78K0R microcontrollers (MCUs) to support cost-sensitive automotive applications. Based on NEC Electronics' fast and efficient 78K0R core, the new 78K0R/Fx3 MCUs are optimized to deliver higher performance and expanded memory options for automotive body electronics applications such as window, seat and door modules; and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. 
CAT5 demo and development kit from Solid State SuppliesA demo and development kit from Solid State Supplies includes a transmission and a receiver circuit which enables the successful transmission of video signals over long distances of CAT5 cable. 
Renesas Technology releases M16C/6C microcontroller with integrated USB 2.0 interface and up to 512kB on-chip flash memoryRenesas Technology Europe today announced a major expansion of its popular M16C microcontroller platform*1 with the addition of USB 2.0 device class support. The M16C/6C group comprises 16 different models, and the new devices are fully compatible with earlier versions. The USB 2.0 specification compliant, 12 Mbps full-speed interface supports the standard transfer types of control, bulk and interrupt. The supporting FIFO is 584 bytes. Featuring the high-performance M16C/60 16-bit CISC CPU core, running at speeds up to 32 MHz, the devices operate between 2.7 to 5.5 VDC. 
Low voltage microcontroller with up to 256kB on-chip flash memory suits portable applicationsRenesas Technology Europe today announced an expansion of its popular M16C Platform microcontroller*1 lineup with 16 low voltage models that can operate down to 1.8V. These devices, especially trimmed versions of the M16C/60 group, are fully compatible with previous products. 
Renesas Technology 32-bit CISC microcontroller now available in small pin count 64/80-pin QFP and 100-pin LGA packagesRenesas Technology Europe today announced the availability of 64-pin QFP, 80-pin QFP and 100-pin 5.5mm x 5.5mm LGA package versions of its popular 32-bit CISC R32C/111 microcontroller. The R32C/100 series is the top-level product series in the M16C Platform, *1 which is a CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) microcontroller. The core is upward compatible with existing CPU cores in the platform, and also provides improvements in operation processing performance, bus usage efficiency and code efficiency. 
Renesas Technology launches dual core microcontroller for consumer and industrial applicationsRenesas Technology Europe announces the introduction of the SH7205 to the SuperH microcontroller Family. The device is the first true dual core microcontroller available from Renesas Technology for consumer and industrial applications. It is intended for a wide range of mass-market products including digital audio/visual, office automation, factory automation, and any other systems requiring connectivity, motor control functionality, and high performance. 
Automotive driver-assist microcontrollers from Renesas feature direct RAM input interfacesRenesas Technology Europe has announced the SH74504 and SH74513, 32-bit MCUs with embedded flash memory for automotive driver-assist system control applications. Designed around Renesas' SH-4A CPU core, they have been developed specifically for driver-assist systems such as those capable of obstacle detection and collision avoidance. 
Microchip enhances mid-range 8-bit PIC microcontroller coreMicrochip has announced its enhanced mid-range 8-bit PIC microcontroller core (MCU) architecture supporting PIC12 and PIC16 MCUs, with feature and peripheral improvements including more program and data memory; a deeper/enhanced hardware stack; additional reset methods; 14 additional programming instructions, including "C" efficiency optimisations resulting in code size reductions; increased peripheral support; and reduced interrupt latency. 
First automotive dual core, floating point MCUs from Texas Instruments let designers innovate and differentiate for safety critical applicationsHelping designers differentiate complex safety critical applications, Texas Instruments Incorporated today introduced the TMS570F microcontroller, the industry's first ARM® Cortex™-R4F processor-based floating point, lock step dual-core automotive MCU. Based on two Cortex-R4F processors, the TMS570F MCUs were designed specifically for applications required to meet the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61508 SIL3 or ISO26262 ASIL D safety standards. An increasing number of manufacturers demand these stringent standards as more automotive applications become safety-critical. Microsoft .NET Micro Framework Debuts on Analog Devices’ Blackfin ProcessorAnalog Devices Inc and AxiomFount Inc. have announced the availability of the Microsoft .NET Micro Framework on Analog Devices' popular Blackfin processors. The move brings the popular managed-code application environment to the world's only convergent processor family via AxiomFount's AxiDotNet and integrated .NET Micro Framework solutions. This gives a broad community of application developers easy access to high-performance signal processing resources for the first time through Microsoft Corp.'s widely adopted Visual Studio development tools. The move to host .NET applications on Blackfin processors supports Microsoft's focus on application development for media-rich embedded products applications. 
Blackfin Processors Expand Analog Devices Convergent-processor PortfolioAnalog Devices has unveiled the Blackfin BF51x series, the newest members of the signal processing pioneer's convergent-processor family. The new offerings continue to demonstrate the superior ability of the Blackfin convergent-processor architecture to reduce cost, power consumption, software complexity, and development schedules in a broad spectrum of mobile lifestyle, industrial and instrumentation, portable medical diagnostic and VoIP telephony applications. 
ON Semiconductor Introduces Programmable Clock MultiplierON Semiconductor introduced the NB3N3020 – a high precision, low phase noise, programmable clock multiplier with best-in-class jitter performance. The device generates an LVPECL clock, as well as LVCMOS clock on the same device which enables the NB3N3020 to be used in a wide range of applications including networking, consumer electronics and computing applications. 
IAR Systems introduces starter kit for STM32F103ZE microcontrollerIAR Systems has announced a complete development kit for STMicroelectronics new microcontroller STM32F103ZE. IAR KickStart Kit includes a development board fitted with the STM32F103ZE microcontroller, a KickStart edition of IAR Embedded Workbenc for ARM, evaluation editions of IAR PowerPac for ARM and IAR visualSTATE, and also includes J-Link for ARM mounted on the board. RS Components to host workshop on getting started with the STM32 microcontrollerRS Components will host a free customer workshop at The Premier Inn, Old Park Lane, Trafford Centre, Manchester on 2nd December 2008. Created with the design engineer in mind, the one-day event is being held in conjunction with ST Microelectronics and Hitex. Attendees will be introduced to the STM32 microcontroller's system architecture, including an overview of its peripheral set and ARM®'s new Cortex-M3 Macrocell. Adeneo announces Windows Embedded CE 6.0 reference BSP for the LPC3250Adeneo, a Microsoft Windows Embedded Gold Partner with facilities in Europe and in the USA, today announced the full commercial release of the Windows Embedded CE 6.0 reference BSP for the LPC3250 ARM9 processor-based microcontroller from NXP Semiconductors targeting consumer, entertainment, industrial, medical and automotive industries. 
Microcontroller for mid-range motor control and inverter applications from RenesasRenesas Technology Europe has launched its latest member of the SuperH line-up of products. The SH7243 is the lowest cost SuperH flash microcontroller currently available in Europe that uses the industry benchmarked SH-2A core. It has been designed specifically for the mid-range drives, and general-purpose inverter markets. Toshiba announces ARM Cortex-M3 microcontrollerToshiba Electronics Europe (TEE) has announced a general-purpose ARM Cortex-M3 core-based microcontroller suitable for digital AV applications. The device is the first in a full line-up of Cortex-M3 devices that will become available during 2009 and is the first ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller from a Japanese semiconductor manufacturer. Samples will be available in December 2008 and mass production will start in March 2009. Flash microcontroller from Renesas TechnologyRenesas Technology Europe announced today the availability of the R8C/2J microcontroller, the latest device addition to the R8C/Tiny series of microcontrollers. This low pin count device is based on the existing R8C/Tiny series, which has an innovative 16-bit CPU core and 8-bit bus. Compared to the existing range of over 260 R8C products, this new R8C/2J device features a reduced set of peripheral functions and offers the flash memory options of 2 or 4Kbyte. This makes the devices suitable for cost sensitive functions, such as intelligent watch-dog timer (WDT), power-on reset (POR), low voltage detect (LVD) or as a secondary fail-safe MCU. 
Renesas Technology releases AE470G secure MCURenesas Technology Europe has announced the availability of the AE470G secure MCU for M2M (Machine-to-Machine) wireless communication applications. The AE470G is built around the high-performance AE-4 CPU core, which was developed specifically for use in secure MCUs, and integrates 144 Kbytes of high-performance electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) with a guaranteed operating temperature range of –40 to +105°C, 500,000 rewrite cycles, and a data storage period after programming of 10 years. The device offers a 16-bit computing element and bus width and operates at a maximum internal frequency of 10 MHz (at 3 V). This ensures software compatibility with earlier AE-4 Series MCUs, which also incorporate the AE-4 CPU core. It is suitable for use in a wide range of machines requiring M2M wireless communication capabilities. Multi-core wireless processors from picoChippicoChip has announced new high-performance picoArray devices. The PC202-10, PC203-10 and PC205-10 multi-core DSPs deliver processing power of up to 262GIPS and 35GMACS. These enhanced members of the industry-leading PC20x series allow designers to deliver advanced features and use fewer devices in highly demanding applications such as advanced wireless infrastructure products. 
NEC Electronics begins sample shipments of latest 8–bit MicrocontrollersNEC Electronics has announced that it is starting sample shipments of 18 new models of its 8–bit microcontroller with built–in Flash memory (all–Flash microcontroller). These products are ideally suited to ancillary functions as sub–microcontrollers, such as controlling small battery–powered systems, managing power to reduce the standby power of home appliances and the like, and controlling key input. 
Renesas processors now supported by highly optimized processor module for rapid system developmentRenesas Technology Europe and Platinum Alliance partner emtrion GmbH, have announced the availability of their processor module HiCO.SH7722. This highly optimized and cost competitive processor module, in SODIMM-format, is ideal as a reference design for rapid and easy development of applications using highly integrated and ultra-low power multimedia processors such as the SH7722. It has been designed as a system solution to extend typical starter kits, without changes, into production-ready solutions for industrial applications. The SODIMM module supports the low power architecture of the processor and is therefore also suitable for portable applications. 
NEC Electronics Europe announces 16-bit microcontrollerNEC Electronics Europe announces that its latest measurements of just 0.52mA/MIPS at 20MHz confirm its industry-leading position in low power consumption, significantly enhancing existing products and setting new standards against leading competition in this as well as lower speed and low power operating modes. In addition, the dedicated real-time clock function requires just 1.0uA of standby current. There is also no sacrifice in performance, offering 0.65DMIPS/MHz (Dhrystone 1.1) which, according to NEC Electronics' measurements, more than doubles the equivalent performance of the latest other similarly positioned products on the market. These combine to offer the industry's leading power / performance ratio at 1.5 milliwatts (mW) per million instructions per second (Dhrystone 1.1). 
NEC Electronics Europe announces All Flash Demonstration KitNEC Electronics Europe has announced the V850ES/Jx3-L All Flash demonstration kit, supporting recently launched V850ES/Jx3-L microcontroller family. The new demo kit adds to the existing range of microcontroller starter kits from NEC Electronics, designed to deliver customers with a complete out-of-the-box experience when selecting a low power consumption capability microcontroller. 
Renesas Technology to release SH7786 Dual-Core processorRenesas Technology Europe has announced a new SH7786 dual-core processor fabricated with a 65 nm process for high-performance multimedia equipment such as car navigation systems. It realizes excellent processing performance of up to 1,920 million instructions per second (MIPS) (960MIPS× 2, when operating at 533 MHz) and ultra-high-speed data transfer. The device will be made available to Renesas' wide base of consumer and industrial customers in 2009. Tensilica Confirms New Intel Media Processor for Consumer Electronics Devices Uses Company’s HiFi 2 Audio ProcessorAt the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco yesterday, Tensilica announced that the new Intel Media Processor CE 3100 (formerly codenamed "Canmore") for Internet-connected CE devices includes Tensilica's HiFi 2 audio processor. Tensilica's HiFi 2 processor is specifically optimized to efficiently run over 50 audio software packages, including AACPlus, MP3, SRS TruSurround HD, WMA, and G.7xx Voice codecs, along with the complete suites of Dolby and DTS codecs required for set-top box and Blu-ray Disc applications. 
NEC Electronics Announces New 16-bit MicrocontrollersNEC Electronics has announced that it has commercialised four models of a new 16-bit microcontroller with on-chip flash memory (All Flash microcontroller), with a consumer electronics control (CEC) circuit enabling interdependent control of digital televisions, DVD recorders, and other devices via a single cable connection. 
600MHz SuperH Family SH7785 now available for high-performance consumer and industrial designsRenesas Technology Europe announced today the availability of the SH7785, its latest high performance addition to the SuperH family of microprocessors, to the consumer and Industrial markets. The device extends the SH7780 family incorporating an advanced SH-4A CPU core and boasting a 50% increase in processing performance and enhancing functionality. 
Toshiba offers enhanced processor options to European ASIC and Foundry customersToshiba Electronics Europe (TEE) is now offering the ARM Cortex-A9MP and the ARM Cortex-R4F processor cores for use with the company's full range of ASIC technologies - including processes down to 40nm. With local support from Toshiba's European LSI Design and Engineering Centre (ELDEC), European customers can choose the ARM cores to improve performance, reduce power consumption and minimise board space in ASIC and ASSP designs for applications ranging from mobile devices to consumer electronics applications. 
16-Bit MCUs with on-chip flash memory from Renesas TechnologyApproximately 1.6 times faster than earlier Renesas Technology MCUs and full complement of peripheral functions, including CAN for automotive applications, providing reduced system cost, improved performance, and enhanced functionality Renesas Technology releases 200 MHz SuperH microcontrollerRenesas Technology Europe today announced the SH72544R SuperH Family microcontroller designed for use in automotive engine and transmission control systems. The device features high-speed operation up to 200 MHz and 2.5 Mbytes of fast, high-capacity on-chip flash memory. Sample shipments will begin during July 2008. 
Loads of new 16-Bit MCUs with on-chip flash memory from Renesas TechnologyRenesas Technology Europe has announced the addition of a total of 36 new models (72 type names) in 12 groups featuring enhanced functions and higher package pin counts. These include the 80-pin R8C/38E group, 64-pin R8C/36E group, and the 48-pin R8C/34E group. Together they strengthen the R8C/Tiny Series line-up for in-vehicle automotive equipment applications. 
8-bit microcontrollers from SSTSST (Silicon Storage Technology) has announced a new addition to its FlashFlex family of 8-bit microcontrollers (MCUs), the SST89C58RC. The new device is the industry's first 8051-based MCU to feature two system management buses (SMBus), each supporting up to 400 Kbit per second data throughput, in a tiny 6mm x 6mm QFN package. The SST89C58RC supports operating voltages from 2.7V to 5.5V for implementation in applications with a variety of power supply requirements. Its dual SMBus feature, small form factor and support for a wide range of operating voltages make the SST89C58RC MCU an ideal solution for numerous applications, including HDMI, HDTVs, A/V receivers, home appliances, industrial instruments, notebook PCs, DVD players, Blu-ray players, RF modules and security applications such as fingerprint identification. 
Jennic's 32-bit ZigBee PRO wireless microcontrollerJennic has announced the introduction of a ZigBee PRO software stack to run on its JN5139 32-bit single chip wireless microcontroller. Both embedded single chip and co-processor configurations are supported, allowing designers of industrial automation, energy metering and home or building control applications to create highly-integrated, cost-effective products. 
Renesas Technology launches low pin-count application specific additions to its R8C/Tiny microcontroller seriesRenesas Technology Europe today announced availability of the latest application specific standard products in its R8C/Tiny series of high performance 16-bit microcontrollers. In additional to over 260 general purpose devices, the R8C/Tiny series now has several ASSPs, that offer solutions for low end motor control, lighting and small appliances. Four groups of devices have been launched, the R8C/2E-2F and the R8C/2K-2L. 
Analog Devices Pairs 24-Bit Sigma-Delta ADCs With ARM7T Core For Unequalled Data Acquisition And Processing PerformanceAnalog Devices, Inc. today introduced a highly integrated microcontroller family with best-in-class data conversion performance for hardware, firmware and industrial systems engineers designing smart sensing, factory automation and instrumentation equipment. The ADuC706x family expands ADI's precision analog microcontroller portfolio by incorporating two 24-bit sigma-delta analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and a host of analog peripherals with a 32-bit ARM7™ core to create a solution for precision sensing applications. The unparalleled combination of small size, low operating power and Analog Devices' industry-leading data conversion design expertise distinguish the ADuC706x from other competitive solutions, eliminating the complexity, cost and performance degradation issues associated with discrete mixed-signal solutions. 
TI microcontrollers feature ultra-low powerTexas Instruments has announced a breakthrough generation of ultra-low power MSP430 microcontrollers (MCU), offering the industry's lowest power consumption for devices that can provide up to 25 MHz peak performance, increased Flash and RAM memory and integrated peripherals such as radio frequency (RF), USB, encryption and LCD interfaces. With as low as 160 µA/MHz (microamp per megahertz) active power consumption and 1.5 µA in standby, MSP430F5xx MCUs enable longer battery life and the ability to use smaller batteries for portable applications, or no batteries at all for energy harvesting systems that run off of solar power, vibration energy or human body temperature. 
Microcontroller line-up from Renesas TechnologyRenesas Technology Europe has introduced the SH7136F microcontroller line-up that is ideal for the next generation of industrial inverters (motor control), in particular for drives in the range of 1 to 100KW. 
8, 16 and 32-bit USB Microcontrollers from MicrochipMicrochip has announced a portfolio of 8, 16 and 32-bit USB microcontrollers supported by a single development environment - the free MPLAB IDE. Building on its 8-bit PIC18 USB Microcontrollers, Microchip now offers the low-power 16-bit PIC24F USB family, which is pin, peripheral and software compatible with the high-performance, 80 MHz, 32-bit PIC32 USB Microcontrollers. Microchip has also expanded its 8-bit USB offering with the lower-cost, smaller-footprint PIC18F1XK50 family. All these devices are supported by free USB stacks and class drivers. 
Low Cost USB PIC Microcontrollers from MicrochipMicrochip has announced a new family of 8-bit PIC microcontrollers for USB applications. The PIC18F13K50 and PIC18F14K50 are the lowest-cost USB microcontrollers from Microchip and provide many features not normally found on inexpensive 8-bit microcontrollers. The new devices are supported by Microchip's free USB software stack and free MPLAB IDE Development Environment, which provides a consistent development platform across all PIC microcontrollers. Logic and TI offer Development Kit for medical innovationsLogic and Texas Instruments have released a development kit specifically designed to quickly bring new medical products to market. The new Zoom Medical OMAP35x Development Kit and companion System on Modules (SOMs) use TI's OMAP35x processor to provide developers with a cost-effective, compact way to design and produce medical, industrial and other embedded applications. AMCC Unveils Storage Processor for High Throughput RAID AccelerationApplied Micro Circuits Corporation has announced the newest member of its storage processor family, the PowerPC 460SX. Based on the Power Architecture standard, the PowerPC 460SX storage processor integrates a PowerPC core and specialized functions for high-performance storage and storage networking applications. 
16-bit MCUs with very Low Power Consumption from NECNEC Electronics Europe has introduced 22 new 16-bit NEC Electronics Europe has introduced 22 new 16-bit All Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) for compact, low-power, battery-operated and sensor-enabled systems. Based on NEC Electronics' high-performance 16-bit 78K0R CPU core, the new 78K0R/Kx3-L MCUs offer very low power consumption to extend battery life, and more on-chip integration to help reduce the size and cost of battery-driven and sensor-enabled systems such as fire and security alarms, meters, industrial sensors, anti-shake digital cameras, handheld medical diagnostics devices, and data-logging and point-of-sale terminals.(MCUs) for compact, low-power, battery-operated and sensor-enabled systems. Based on NEC Electronics' high-performance 16-bit 78K0R CPU core, the new 78K0R/Kx3-L MCUs offer very low power consumption to extend battery life, and more on-chip integration to help reduce the size and cost of battery-driven and sensor-enabled systems such as fire and security alarms, Renesas Technology Develops Future 32-bit RX600 Series CISC MCUs, Based its Next-Generation ‘RX’ ArchitectureRenesas Technology has announced the development of the RX600 Series microcontrollers (MCUs), re-defining performance capabilities of CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) based MCUs. The new devices, scheduled for sample shipment in the second quarter of 2009, will be the first 32-bit products to incorporate the next-generation 'RX' CPU architecture and offer CPU performance of up to 200MHz, with the industry's fastest single-cycle flash access capability (100MHz). 
NEC Electronics Enters LED Control Market with High-Performance, Intelligent MicrocontrollerNEC Electronics has introduced what it says is the world's first microcontroller (MCU) with a constant high-current driver (HCD). The new HCD/LED MCU can be used in lighting applications that use more than one LED, in industrial control applications featuring stepping motor and solenoid drives, and in switching-mode power supplies. Developed in collaboration with leading LED solutions supplier Future Lighting Solutions (a division of Future Electronics), the two companies merged their expertise to develop this intelligent design approach to meet the growing market demands of LED lighting and other applications. 
Green Hills Announces Software Development Solution for Microchip's PIC24 MCUs and dsPIC DSCsGreen Hills Software, Inc. and Microchip Technology Inc., have announced that Green Hills Software's integrated development environment, MULTI, is now available for Microchip's 16-bit PIC24 microcontroller (MCU) and dsPIC digital signal controller (DSC) families. 
NEC Electronics Enables USB Connectivity in Industrial and Consumer Electronics Systems with New 32-Bit MicrocontrollersNEC Electronics Corporation has announced the addition of twelve new 32-bit devices with complete USB connectivity functionality on a single chip. The new 32-bit V850ES/Jx3 MCUs execute USB 2.0 data transfers at high speeds up to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and enable rapid development of USB connectivity in printers that support direct image transfers from digital cameras, in audio systems that support music data transfers via USB memory, and in a variety of other consumer and industrial applications. 
Renesas Technology Releases Microcontrollers with 1 Mbyte On-Chip SRAM for Digital Audio and Graphical Dashboard ApplicationsRenesas Technology Corp has announced a total of eight new product versions of the SH7262 and SH7264 high-performance 32-bit microcontrollers with 1 Mbyte of on-chip SRAM for digital audio and graphical dashboard applications. Sample shipments will begin in August 2008 in Japan. TI's Code Composer Essentials v3 for ultra-low power portable applicationsTexas Instruments has announced the release of Code Composer Essentials (CCEssentials) v3. CCEssentials v3 for MSP430 provides major upgrades designed to enhance performance, emulation and ease-of-use, all at a very low cost. Leveraging the design flexibility and interoperability enabled by the Eclipse open source platform, designers can easily integrate plug-ins for a highly customized, interoperable and flexible IDE. 
Low Power Large-Memory 16-bit USB Microcontroller FamilyMicrochip's 12-member PIC24FJ256GB1 microcontroller (MCU) family is said to be the lowest power (2.6 µA standby current) large-memory (up to 256 KB Flash and 16 KB RAM) 16-bit USB microcontroller family on the market. The PIC24FJ256GB1 family integrates USB 2.0 device, embedded-host, dual-role and On-the-Go (OTG) functionality, making it cost effective and easy to add advanced USB features to embedded designs. Microchip also provides complete software support, via free USB class drivers and applications. Applications such as reading and writing to Flash drives, interfacing to wireless networks, and system updates are all enabled through this complete, cost-effective USB microcontroller family. 
IAR Systems launches starter kit for ColdFireIAR Systems has announced the launch of IAR KickStart Kit for ColdFire. The starter kit provides everything that a developer needs to begin developing a system on a Freescale ColdFire microcontroller, straight from the box. At the same time IAR Embedded Workbench for ColdFire is being upgraded to Version 1.20. Silicon Labs Expands Family of Small Form Factor MCUs with EPROMSilicon Laboratories has announced the expansion of its small form factor microcontrollers (MCUs) with the C8051T630 family of 8-bit MCUs. Pin-for-pin compatible with Silicon Labs' C8051F330 family, the T630 devices are low-cost, feature-rich, EPROM-based MCUs that give customers the ability to easily interchange the two MCU families for a given product platform. 16-bit secure MCU as first product in Renesas' RS-4 series for multifunction financial and ID smart cardsRenesas Technology Europe has announced details of the RS45C, a secure MCU for smart cards requiring a high level of security such as ID, banking and credit cards. The RS45C is built around the RS-4 high-performance 16-bit CPU core and integrates 36 Kbytes of electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Renesas adds motor control capability and dual CAN channels to its SuperH microcontroller line-upRenesas Technology Europe has introduced the SH7142F microcontroller line-up that is said to be ideal for the next generation of industrial inverters. This device also marks an industry first in terms of connectivity. It is the first SuperH Controller to feature two controller area network (CAN) modules. The device integrates pin to pin and software compatible 256Kbyte and 512kbyte versions with super-fast MONOS Flash. MONOS flash supports fully deterministic 80MHz zero-wait operation yielding over 100 Dhrystone MIPS CPU performance. It has two timer units (MTU2, MTU2S), each capable of driving a motor, and two 12-bit fast ADCs for measuring the phase currents and also provides for three sample and hold (S&H) circuits in each ADC. The conversion time is as fast as 1.25us. PowerPC processor Offers Balance of Performance and Features for Cost Sensitive Embedded ApplicationsApplied Micro Circuits Corporation has announced the newest member of its Power Architecture family, the PowerPC 440EPr processor. The outstanding balance of performance and affordability makes the PowerPC 440EPr the ideal choice for a wide range of cost sensitive applications, such as secure gateway solutions, network appliances, multifunction printing platforms, networking line cards and other embedded systems. 
32-bit CISC microcontroller family with network-oriented functions and up to 1 Megabyte Flash memoryRenesas Technology Europe has enhanced its H8SX family of 32-bit CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) microcontrollers with the addition of the H8SX/1658R and H8SX/1668R series. These two groups comprise products suitable for use in a wide variety of applications, including PC and office automation (OA) devices, digital consumer products, and industrial equipment. The H8SX/1658R and H8SX/1668R models are functionally enhanced versions of Renesas' current H8SX/1653 and H8SX/1663 groups featuring an on-chip USB function. The addition of these new groups brings the total number of models in the H8SX family lineup to 26. Renesas Technology to Release AE56U 32-Bit MCU for Smartcards with On-Chip USB Controller for USB Tokens Supporting Highly Secure Digital Signature FunctionalityRenesas has announced the AE56U, the company's first 32-bit MCU for smartcards with an on-chip USB (Universal Serial Bus) controller. The device is suitable for USB token applications implementing highly secure digital signature functionality for fields such as online banking. Sample shipments will begin in June 2008 in Japan. 
Mouser Electronics has Silicon Lab's C8051F9xx Line of MCUsMouser Electronics, Inc has announced it is stocking the C8051F9xx line of MCUs from Silicon Laboratories Inc. The C8051F9xx line of MCUs is said to offer the lowest voltage, greatest power efficiency, highest functional density, and best-in-class tools. 
Low-Cost, General-Purpose 8-bit PIC Microcontrollers from MicrochipMicrochip has announced a new family of low-cost 8-bit Flash PIC microcontrollers (MCUs). The 28- and 40-pin PIC16F722/3/4/6/7 MCUs are capable of operation down to 1.8V and feature a 16 MHz internal oscillator; up to 14 Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) channels; communication peripherals (SPI, I2C, AUSART); two Capture, Compare and PWM (CCP) modules; and the mTouch Sensing Solution peripheral. 
Microchip Expands 32-bit PIC32 MCU Family With USB On-The-Go FunctionalityMicrochip has announced the addition of integrated USB 2.0 On-The-Go (OTG) functionality to its 32-bit PIC32 microcontroller family. The PIC32 family brings more performance and memory to embedded designers while maintaining pin, peripheral and software compatibility with Microchip's 16-bit microcontroller and DSC families. The maximum operating frequency for the PIC32 family has been increased to 80MHz, which further extends the performance reach of the new 32-Bit PIC32 microcontroller family. To further ease migration and protect tool investments, Microchip's is the only complete portfolio of 8-, 16- and 32-bit devices to be supported by a single Integrated Development Environment - the free MPLAB IDE. 
Vishay Releases Royalty-Free Courier-115 Software Protocol Enabling Infrared Wireless Communication for Texas Instruments MSP430 MCU PlatformVishay Intertechnology, Inc. continues to broaden its optoelectronics portfolio with the release of Courier-115 a royalty-free wireless software protocol for devices that are based on the Texas Instruments' ultra-low power MSP430 microcontroller (MCU) platform. 
New R32C/100 CPU Core-based Flash microcontrollers for automotive applicationsRenesas Technology Europe has announced 50 new products comprising 11 groups as new additions to its R32C/100 Series of Microcontroller Units (MCUs) with on-chip flash memory for automotive systems. The MCUs in this series are built around the R32C/100 high-performance 32-bit CPU core, the most advanced available in the M16C Family of complex instruction set computer (CISC) MCUs. Renesas Technology has developed this MCU family concept to meet the automotive industries needs for higher performance, scalability of memory sizes and packages, optimized functionality combined with low power consumption and high reliability. 
Renesas extends popular M16C/62P microcontroller family with 30% speed increase and up to 768k on-chip flashRenesas Technology Europe has announced a major expansion of its popular M16C Platform microcontroller*1 lineup with the addition of 20 different models in the M16C/65 group. These devices, successors to the M16C/62P family and extensions of the M16C/64 group, are fully compatible with previous products. 
Renesas redefines 32-bit CISC market with large on-chip RAM and Flash memory microcontrollersRenesas Technology Europe has announced the R32C/111 group of microcontrollers with on-chip flash memory and incorporating the R32C/100 high-performance 32-bit CPU core. The group consists of 12 models and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including metering, industrial and consumer electronics. The R32C/100 series is the top-level product series in the M16C Platform, which is a CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) microcontroller. The core is upward compatible with existing CPU cores in the platform, and also provides improvements in operation processing performance, bus usage efficiency and code efficiency. 
Microprocessor combines 32-bit ARM processor with graphics control and processing functionality to simplify multimedia applicationsToshiba Electronics Europe has launched a low power ARM-based microprocessor that combines a high-performance 32-bit core with comprehensive graphics control and processing functionality and a variety of on-board connectivity and peripheral options. The new device will considerably reduce the development time and component count of applications requiring basic multimedia functionality. 
Microcontroller aims at the heart of industrial inverter technologyRenesas Technology Europe has introduced the SH7137F microcontroller line-up that is ideal for the next generation of industrial inverters (motor control), in particular for main-stream drives in the range of 1 to 100KW. The device integrates 256Kbyte fast MONOS Flash that supports fully deterministic 80MHz zero-wait operation yielding over 100 Dhrystone MIPS CPU performance. It has two powerful timer units (MTU2, MTU2S), each capable of driving a motor, and two 12-bit fast ADCs for measuring the phase currents and thus provides for three sample and hold (S&H) circuits in each ADC. The conversion time is as fast as 1.25us. 
Low power 16-bit Flash microcomputer incorporates Ethernet and USB for smaller, lower-cost systemsRenesas Technology has introduced the H8S Family H8S/2472F as the company's first 16-bit microcontroller incorporating an Ethernet controller and USB for use in industrial systems such as low-end servers, SPS, HVAC, sensors, drives, robots and other factory and home automation products. LSI samples are available now. STMicroelectronics unveils 8-bit Microcontroller PlatformSTMicroelectronics has unveiled details of a new 8-bit microcontroller platform designed to offer outstanding levels of performance and cost-effectiveness in a wide range of applications. Implemented around a high-performance 8-bit core and a state-of-the-art set of peripherals, the STM8 platform will be manufactured using an ST-proprietary 130nm embedded non-volatile memory technology. 
MCUs are capable of operating down to 0.9 VSilicon Laboratories has announced what it says is the industry's first microcontrollers (MCUs) capable of operating down to 0.9 V, enabling portable devices to derive power from a single-cell battery for the first time at the Embedded World tradeshow in Nuremberg, Germany. The C8051F9xx family's novel 8-bit architecture with an integrated high-efficiency dc-dc boost converter, which can supply up to 65 mW of power for both internal MCU use and to drive other components, creates a true single-cell battery system solution. 
NEC Electronics Introduces 19 New 78K0R/Ix3 16-bit All Flash™ Microcontrollers for Inverter ControlNEC Electronics today announced a new line of 16-bit All Flash™ microcontrollers (MCUs) for inverter control applications. Built around NEC Electronics' fast and efficient 78K0R CPU core, the 19 MCUs in the 78K0R/Ix3 lineup are designed to enable a new generation of intelligent and eco-friendly appliances and motor drives. All devices in the lineup feature integrated inverter control circuits and deliver best-of-class power performance. 
Arrow and Atmel to host workshop introducing high-performance, low-power 32-bit Flash micros with USB 2.0 and USB OTGArrow and Atmel have teamed up to run an exclusive one-day workshop that will give engineers an insight into the latest technology developments in the field of highly integrated 32-bit microcontrollers featuring embedded Flash memory and advanced connectivity options. Places for the workshop are limited, and with attendees receiving free evaluation kits and significant discounts on additional kits, Arrow is expecting significant interest. 
Microcontrollers for In-Vehicle Automotive SystemsAddressing the growing demand for greater automation of in-vehicle comfort and safety systems, NEC Electronics today introduced 13 new 32-bit V850ES/Fx3-L microcontrollers (MCUs) that offer increased functionality at a low cost for automotive body and safety applications. As members of NEC Electronics' F Series MCUs, the new 32-bit devices provide the price/performance ratio required for anti-theft mechanisms, climate control systems, airbags, hands-free systems and small thin-film-transistor (TFT) products. 
32-bit microcontroller family for power-sensitive applicationsNEC Electronics Europe has announced the V850ES/Jx3-L 32-bit microcontroller family as further enhancement to its All Flash microcontroller line-up. This new family offers new levels of energy saving to power-sensitive applications that still demand a high level of performance, memory and peripheral integration such as battery-backed multi-phase electricity meters, high-end blood glucose meters, test and instrumentation equipment, point of sale equipment and other high-end portable devices. 
Microchip Introduces Flash Data Memory to the Baseline PIC® Microcontroller ArchitectureMicrochip announces two new Baseline 8-bit Flash PIC® microcontrollers with non-volatile Flash Data Memory (FDM) in 8- and 14-pin packages. Now offering 64 bytes of non-volatile data memory, an 8 MHz internal oscillator, a Device Reset Timer (DRT), up to three channels of 8-bit Analog-to-Digital Conversion (ADC), and up to two comparators - engineers using the low-cost Baseline PIC microcontrollers now have an increasingly diverse feature set to select from. 
Sub-50 Cent 8-bit Flash Microcontroller Family from STMicroelectronicsSTMicroelectronics has announced a new ultra-low-cost series of Flash microcontrollers (MCUs) intended for highly cost-sensitive products such as electric bicycles (ebikes), air conditioning, small appliances and sensors. The ST7FOX series includes devices with from 2KB to 8KB of on-chip Flash memory, and with eight to 32 pins, all of which are priced below the critical 50 cent ($0.50) threshold. 
Microcontroller Families from TI Enable Ultra-Low Power ApplicationsTexas Instruments has announced the availability of five families of MSP430F2xx high-performance microcontrollers. The new microcontrollers provide a direct upgrade path for corresponding devices in TI's popular MSP430F1xx generation of ultra-low-power MCUs, easing development and offering complete software and pin compatibility while delivering twice the performance, twice the battery life, and increased memory. MSP430F2xx MCUs enable developers of meters, sensors, industrial control systems, handheld instruments and a host of other embedded systems to extend the performance and lifetime of their products with minimal redesign. 
2x G-Ethernet and Linux supported high-end microprocessor for consumer media and gateway applicationsRenesas Technology Europe has announced the availability of the SH7763 highly integrated microprocessor for sophisticated consumer applications such as high-end audio/video equipment, media servers and set-top-boxes. It is also suits telecom-based designs such as residential gateways, routers and IP-feature phones. In addition, the microprocessor is ideal for migrating designs from industrial PCs (IPC) to deeply embedded hardware. This would achieve significantly lower power consumption, longer product life time and smaller form factors than any IPC can offer. 
Silicon Laboratories Expands Family Of High-Performance MCUs With Lower Cost OptionsSilicon Laboratories has announced the expansion of its small form factor microcontrollers (MCUs) with the C8051T610 family of low cost 8-bit MCUs. Pin-for-pin compatible with Silicon Laboratories' C8051F310 family, the T610 offers customers a cost-effective alternative in the same small footprint. The C8051T610 family is ideal for consumer and industrial applications that are under increasing cost pressure, including toys, camera modules, cell phone accessories, portable devices, home appliances and motor controllers. 
Microcontroller with 480MIPS, FPU, Ethernet controller and USB host/functionRenesas Technology Europe has introduced a total of eight products in four groups in the SH7670 group of the SuperH Family. These microprocessors each incorporate an Ethernet controller and USB 2.0 host on a single chip and are intended for applications such as digital audio visual, office automation, and factory automation systems requiring network connection functionality. 
32-Bit CISC microcontrollers bring functional enhancements for wider range of applicationsRenesas Technology Europe has announced enhancements to its H8SX family of 32-bit CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) microcontrollers. With the addition of the H8SX/1638 and H8SX/1648 groups, there are a total of eight models featuring a 50MHz maximum operating frequency, 50MIPS performance, and comprehensive on-chip peripheral functions. The enhanced family of microcontrollers offers a wide range of products ideal for varied systems in PCs and office automation (OA), digital consumer, and industrial products. 
Self-Test Software Simplifies End-Product Safety Compliance for STM's STM32 Flash microcontroller familySTMicroelectronics has announced a new software library for the recently-announced STM32 Flash microcontroller family – which is based on the breakthrough ARM Cortex-M3 core – designed specifically to simplify the testing and securing end-product approval and compliance with the demands of the IEC 60335-1 standard*, when the MCU is used in household appliances. Since October 2007, IEC 60335-1 requires the software of MCU-based appliances to be evaluated according to its impact on overall consumer and application safety. When some of the fault detection relies on the microcontroller, the embedded code must contain self-test routines, and must be evaluated under the so-called Class B requirements for its ability to detect safety critical failures. Partnership Delivers Free Diamond Processors on Free Mask Charge ASICsTensilica and eASIC Corporation have announced a partnership to remove the cost barriers for developing custom embedded System-on-a-Chip. (SoCs). Through this partnership eASIC now provides free access to Tensilica's Diamond Standard microprocessor and DSP cores for its free mask charge, no-minimum order ASICs. This unique combination enables embedded system designers to develop Diamond processor-based SoCs for applications in any production volume. Designers will now be able to develop customized, highly differentiated ASIC solutions at a lower cost than FPGA-based embedded systems. 
Blackfin processors shrink time to market for PMPsAnalog Devices have announced that they are working with RealNetworks, Inc. to provide the latest generation of Personal Media Players featuring full D1 broadcast resolution playback of RealVideo and RealAudio media files, the same formats used in RealPlayer. The combined efficiency of the RealVideo format and the performance of the Blackfin processor deliver a high-quality level of video playback traditionally not found in personal media players. Chinese market leader, Aigo introduced two models this Autumn, the Aigo E898 and F965R, which feature support of RealVideo, RealAudio and the RMVB formats running on a Blackfin processor, and credits the Blackfin with shortening time to market and reducing the risk in product design, since its inherent programmability allows for rapid development cycles. Enhanced performance 16-Bit secure MCUs are five times faster for smart cards such as credit/debit and ID cardsRenesas Technology Europe has today announced the development of the RS-4 Series of 16-bit secure MCUs*1 for smart card applications in fields requiring a high level of security, such as credit or debit cards issued by banks or finance companies and ID cards. The RS-4 Series can deliver five times the processing performance of previous Renesas products of this type. The first products in the series are scheduled for release in the second quarter of 2008 (April to June). 
Windows CE and Linux support for Renesas’ SH7780 32-bit SuperH® microprocessor development platformMPC Data Limited, a leading Renesas Platinum Global Alliance Partner, has announced the immediate availability of a Windows CE 5.0 and a Linux 2.6 board support package for Renesas' popular SH7780 32-bit SuperH® microprocessor. Both BSPs are targeted at the SDK7780 development platform, providing a choice of operating systems for engineers to design new products based on SH7780, shortening development time and getting products to market faster. CenTrak uses TI's MSP430 MCUs to streamline patient and equipment tracking in Medical facilitiesCenTrak, Inc. has announced the introduction of its InTouch Care Real Time Location System (RTLS), an advanced, easily installed system for tracking medical personnel, patients and equipment that is based on MSP430 microcontroller units (MCUs) from Texas Instruments. The new InTouch Care RTLS employs DualTrakTM technology, a unique combination of radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) generates more accurate locations of people and equipment to room and sub-room levels, saving time and costs for hospitals while helping to improve patient care. Thanks to the extremely low power consumption of TI's MSP430 MCUs, InTouch Care's DualTrak infrastructure operates on batteries that last for several years, making the system easy to deploy and scale, as well as inexpensive to maintain. 
16/32Kbyte Flash versions added to Renesas microcontroller rangeRenesas Technology Europe has added 32Kbyte Flash versions to its line-up of low pin count, SH/Tiny Flash microcontrollers. Adding the lower memory versions puts increased pressure on small DSPs with small memory integration. Renesas' solution being a more flexible, cost effective solution than many advantages over DSPs. Renesas Technology completes design of CPU core for next-generation microcontrollersRenesas Technology Europe today announced that it has completed the design of an innovative new CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) CPU architecture that will deliver what the company says is unmatched capabilities in code efficiency, processing performance, and power consumption for a future generation of Renesas' CISC microcontrollers (MCUs). Products based on the new architecture will be branded as the 'RX' family. 
90nm Secure Microcontroller from STMicroelectronics has Embedded Flash for Smart CardsSTMicroelectronics has announced a new secure microcontroller (MCU) based on embedded Flash memory, which is the first in the world to be produced using 90nm (90 nanometer) process technology. The ST21F384 – the first secure micro within ST's established ST21 smartcard platform, optimized for 2.5G and 3G mobile communications – uses Flash memory in place of mask ROM for its program memory, to provide increased flexibility and shorter lead times for manufacturers, coupled with increased cost-efficiency from its 90nm production. 
Microchip claims new Standard for Integration and Migration With Compatible MPLAB Toolchain for New PIC32 MCUsMicrochip Technology has announced full MPLAB development tool availability to support today's launch of the new PIC32 32-bit microcontroller family. The immediate availability of a broad and compatible suite of tools means that Microchip's current customers can easily make the transition from 8- and 16-bit microcontroller development to 32-bit development. At the same time, designers new to Microchip will find a highly integrated 32-bit toolchain that sets a new industry standard for integration and ease of use. PIC32 tool support is available today from the free MPLAB IDE version 8.0, the MPLAB C32 C compiler (including a free evaluation version), the MPLAB REAL ICE emulation system and the MPLAB ICD 2 in-circuit debugger. 
Microchip's PIC Microcontroller Line extended to 32 BitsMicrochip has announced the PIC32 family of 32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs), adding more performance and memory while maintaining pin, peripheral and development compatibility with Microchip's 16-bit MCU/DSC families. The new PIC32 family is fully supported by Microchip's free MPLAB Integrated Development Environment (IDE) which now offers unprecedented compatibility by supporting Microchip's complete portfolio of 8-, 16- and 32-bit devices. 
High-speed programming and debugging tool for Freescale microcontrollersEnhanced versions of the P&E Cyclone, a family of debugging and programming tools for the Freescale families of microcontrollers, are now available from Computer Solutions. For the Freescale HC08/S08/R08, HC12/S12/S12X and v1 Coldfire (Flexis) microcontrollers, the Cyclone Pro links to the target board via the BDM or MON08 ports. It can function as a completely standalone programmer or, with its Ethernet and USB interfaces, either as a high-speed interactive BDM development tool or as a versatile automated programmer. MCU offers low power solution with 128kbytes of flash for metering and many other applicationsRenesas Technology Europe has released the H8/38099F series MCU featuring a high performance 16-bit H8/300H CPU core. Offering extremely low power consumption combined with the flexibility of on-chip flash memory, these features make the H8/38099F ideal for many battery and line-powered applications. 
Flash microcontroller in a compact 10x10mm BGA packageRenesas Technology Europe announced today an expansion to its successful SH708x-line-up with a version of the SH7083F Flash microcontroller in a compact 10x10mm and 1.4mm thickness BGA package. This device delivers 104 Dhrystone MIPS out of its 256Kbyte/512KByte embedded MONOS Flash memory and yet takes up only 140mm3. Such a level of CPU performance has so far not been available to applications with extreme space constraints such as sensors, cameras lenses and small medical applications (e.g. hearing aids). 
STMicroelectronics proves developing around STM32 ARM-based Microcontrollers can be funSTMicroelectronics today introduced a self-contained, entertaining and very low-cost development package, the STM32 Primer, for the recently-announced STM32 Flash microcontroller family, which is based on the breakthrough ARM Cortex-M3 core. It includes an innovative user interface, games, and other features to introduce new users to the family, as well as Raisonance software tools for advanced development and programming. Gateway Controller featuring SMSC’s MediaLB interface technology for seamless adoption to MOST® based infotainment systemsNEC Electronics Europe is introducing a new family member of NEC Electronics' powerful 32-bit RISC microcontroller family for automotive gateway and body applications. Offering high performance, large memory size and fully-fledged communication interfaces, it is ideal for high-end gateway and other body applications in the automotive field. The V850E/CAG4-M takes the popular V850 family into the high-performance bracket and supports emerging standards in automotive communication interfaces. Avago Technologies Launches Advanced MMICs with Broad Bandwidth Support for Test and Measurement MarketAvago Technologies today announced three new MMICs designed to address the complex needs of test and measurement equipment applications for wireless networks. The AMMC-6380, -6470 and -6350 microcircuits are ideal for test and measurement applications where highly accurate instrumentation and signal processing support for high-end frequencies are required. 
Microcontroller for automotive body applications from NECNEC Electronics Europe today announced a new microcontroller for automotive body applications. The V850E/CAG4-M is a member of NEC Electronics' powerful 32-bit RISC microcontroller family with embedded FlexRay interface. Offering high performance, large memory and fully-fledged communication interfaces, it is especially suited for high-end gateway and other body applications. The V850E/CAG4-M extends the popular V850 32-bit microcontroller family into the high-performance range, with the FlexRay and MediaLB interfaces supporting emerging standards for communication within automotive applications. 
PC18 PRO compiler features new optimisation technologyThe Hi-Tech PIC18 PRO C compiler for the Microchip PIC18 family of microcontrollers, featuring a new compilation technique known as OSG (Omniscient Code Generator), is now available in the UK from Computer Solutions. 
Microcontroller from Toshiba has LCD controller and touch screen interfaceToshiba Electronics Europe has expanded its family of TFT-enabled microcontrollers with a high-performance, low power consumption 32-bit device that combines high-level processing, high-capacity memory, and integrated colour LCD controller in a compact 20mm x 20mm package. Target applications for the new TMP92CF29FG will include new and emerging home appliances where the trend is towards colour TFTs that enhance the user experience. 
Microprocessor delivers 2.8 GFLOPS to industrial applications requiring graphicsRenesas Technology Europe has announced the immediate availability of the SH7780 microprocessor that delivers Pentium-class floating point performance into consumer and industrial markets. The device is ideal for applications requiring high-end graphics and so features a floating point unit (FPU) tailored for that purpose. Furthermore it consumes only 2.5W, is available in a -40 to 85 degree C version, integrates PCI, has a long life time, and is low cost compared to a Pentium microprocessor of similar FPU performance. 
Ramtron extends Versa 8051 family with VRS51L3072 2-kilobit FRAM microcontrollerRamtron International Corporation has launched the VRS51L3072, an 8051-based microcontroller with 2-kilobit (Kb) of non-volatile FRAM memory. Ramtron has added FRAM to its fast and flexible Versa 8051s for a quick and reliable non-volatile data storage and processing system that is ideal for saving system status, data logging, and storing nonvolatile variables in a range of applications from sensors and meters to industrial controls, instrumentation and medical devices. 
Microchip Introduces 128-Kbit, 512-Kbit and the Industry’s Fastest 1-Mbit SPI Serial EEPROMMicrochip introduces the 25AA1024 and 25LC1024 - the fastest 1 Megabit serial EEPROM devices in the industry – along with the 25AA128, 25LC128, 25AA512 and 25LC512 128 Kbit and 512 Kbit devices. Microchip now provides SPI serial EEPROMs across a wide memory-density range (1 Kbit – 1 Mbit). All of the new devices are specified to operate over an extended temperature range (up to 125°C), and provide the performance for which Microchip's serial EEPROM devices are known, including over 1 million erase/write cycles and 200-year data retention. 
Fairchild's Integrated FET Module Delivers 50 Percent Space-Savings in Synchronous Buck Converter DesignsFairchild Semiconductor 's FDMS9600S and FDMS9620S are two highly integrated modules that significantly reduce board space while providing the ability to achieve higher conversion efficiency in synchronous buck designs. Each module in the FDMS96xx series combines a high-side and low-side N-Channel MOSFET and one monolithically integrated Schottky diode into a single, space-efficient, 5mm x 6mm MLP package. This integration results in a highly efficient solution for severely space-constrained applications such as notebook computers, small form factor desktops, media center PCs, ultra-dense servers, blade servers, advanced gaming systems, graphic cards, networking and telecom equipment, and other DC-DC designs. 
8-bit Microcontroller family features low power consumptionMicrochip has announced eight new members of the PIC18F high-performance 8-bit microcontroller family that take advantage of Microchip's latest process technology developments, offering lower power consumption, low cost and high-performance operation. The new devices' low-power nanoWatt Technology features include power-managed modes, an operating voltage range of 1.8V to 3.6V and efficient on-chip peripherals. 
Microchip adds a touch sensing user interface to applications using PIC microcontrollersMicrochip has announced the mTouch solution to provide engineers with a free and easy method for adding a touch sensing user interface to applications using PIC microcontrollers. The software is available for free download from the Microchip Touch Sensing Design Center at www.microchip.com/mtouch and provides full access to the source code, so designers can modify the algorithms and easily integrate them with their own application in a single microcontroller. New Devices added to NEC's 32-Bit All Flash Microcontroller LineupNEC Electronics Europe and NEC Electronics America, Inc. today introduced two additions to their popular V850ES lineup of 32-bit all flash microcontrollers (MCUs). The new V850ES/Hx3 and V850ES/Jx3 MCUs execute up to 69 Dhrystone MIPS at clock speeds of 32 megahertz (MHz), and are well-suited for next-generation access control products; point-of-sale systems; industrial controllers and drivers; heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems; computer peripherals; home appliances; factory automation equipment; metering devices; medical and process analytics instruments; and test and measurement equipment. 
Silicon Labs Doubles Memory on Small Form Factor MCUsSilicon Laboratories has announced at the Embedded Systems Conference in Boston the expansion of its best-in-class small form factor family to include the C8051F336 family of highly-integrated 8-bit MCUs. Pin-for-pin compatible with Silicon Laboratories C8051F330 family of devices, the F336 doubles the Flash code space to 16 kB. Additional memory combined with high-performance peripherals and four-corner operation enables system designers to easily upgrade their products and add features in software while leveraging the cost, reliability and design benefits of Silicon Labs' mixed-signal MCUs. Silicon Labs' MCUniversity Program Offers Complete University Course for MicrocontrollersSilicon Laboratories today announced the MCUniversity Course designed for electrical engineering professors teaching embedded system design with microcontrollers (MCUs). Based on the C8051F020 advanced, mixed-signal MCU, the MCUniversity program provides complete coursework and development tools for instruction on mixed-signal MCUs. Leveraging Silicon Labs' ToolStick USB development tool, the MCUniversity program also offers a low cost or no cost program for students, making the course very easy to adopt. Secure MCUs Based on 0.13-micron Process TechnologySTMicroelectronics has announced a new family of secure microcontrollers based on a 0.13-micron state-of-the-art process technology, which are intended for banking, loyalty card and other financial applications. This advanced family is based on the new ST23 secure platform, which takes advantage of the most recent improvements in security technology and offers optimized computing power for advanced secure applications. 
SST Introduces Industry’s Smallest 8051-based Microcontroller for Mobile DevicesSST (Silicon Storage Technology, Inc.) announced a new addition to the company's popular SuperFlash-based FlashFlex family of 8-bit, 8051-compatible microcontrollers, the SST89V54RD-33-C-QIF. Leveraging the company's innovative packaging technology, the new SST89V54RD is available in a 6mm x 6mm WQFN package, making it the smallest 8051-based microcontroller currently on the market. The device's miniature size and low power consumption are ideal for small form factor mobile applications, such as notebook PCs, MP3 players and GPS systems, as well as home entertainment devices including HDMI products. Additionally, the SST89V54RD supports in-system programming (ISP) and in-application programming (IAP), which provide a variety of benefits to device manufacturers and consumers alike. 
Complete AUTOSAR software stack for NEC microcontrollersNEC Electronics Europe and Vector Informatik have introduced a complete AUTOSAR software stack for NEC Electronics' V850ES/Fx3 and V850E/PHO3 microcontrollers, based on NEC Electronics' 32-bit V850 CPU core. NEC Electronics' microcontroller abstraction layer (MCAL) software contains all AUTOSAR device driver and interface modules. To match the exceptional quality standards of the hardware, the MCAL software was developed using best-in-class software processes certified to CMMI Level 5 and SPICE Level 3. 
3V micros provide fully integrated solution for motor controlRenesas Technology Europe's H8/36079LF microcontrollers offer a completely integrated solution for a wide range of applications, with everything on chip that users need, including oscillators, analogue inputs and timers. The micros are ideal for low cost motor control applications, including white goods such as washing machines and dishwashers, also industrial applications, and for compressors and fans. STMicroelectronics Extends Low-Cost ST7Lite MCU Family to Include Devices With Up To 24 I/O LinesSTMicroelectronics today announced a new series of 8-bit Flash microcontrollers, within the low-cost ST7Lite family, that feature up to 24 I/O (input/output) lines, further extending the range of cost-sensitive applications for the popular family. ST7Lite is designed specifically for simpler products such as security and lighting systems, power management, small appliances, sensors and motor control. 
78K0/Lx3 starter kit SEE-IT! supports LCD microcontroller familyNEC Electronics Europe announces the availability of the 78K0/Lx3 SEE-IT! starter kit, supporting the recently launched 78K0/Lx3 8-bit LCD microcontroller family. SEE-IT! adds to the existing range of microcontroller starter kits from NEC Electronics, designed to deliver customers with a complete out-of-the-box experience when selecting an appropriate microcontroller. 
SH7203 microcontroller now supported by µClinux BSPRenesas Technology Europe and Platinum Alliance partner MPC Data Limited, announce the availability of their µCLinux board support package (BSP) and tool chain for Renesas' SH-2A-based microcontroller, the SH7203. The µCLinux BSP is fully compliant with Renesas' RSK7203plus development board, and includes the drivers for the peripherals integrated in the SH7203. This allows developers to target a wide variety of applications requiring connectivity, TFT-drive and hundreds of MIPS performance. Increasingly, designers are being faced with these challenges when industrial PC applications have to use lower power, meet reduced cost budgets and occupy less space. The BSP covers man machine interface (MMI) features, communications and storage functions. Also included are versions of Binutils and BusyBox utility applications. These combine tiny versions of common Linux utilities in a single small executable file. 
32-bit low power, highly integrated H8SX microcontroller enhanced with high-precision 16bit delta sigma A/D converterRenesas Technology Europe has announced enhancements to its H8SX family of 32-bit CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) microcontrollers with the addition of the H8SX/1622 group, featuring a 50MHz maximum operating frequency, 50MIPS performance, and comprehensive on-chip peripheral functions. The enhanced family of micros offers a wide range of products ideal for varied systems in PCs and OA products, digital consumer, and industrial products fields. 
Microcontrollers offer integrated solution for low cost motor control applicationsWith everything on chip that users need including oscillators, analogue inputs and timers, Renesas Technology Europe's H8/36079GF group of microcontrollers offers a completely integrated solution for many motor control applications. The group provides the ideal solution for virtually any low cost motor control application, such as white goods including washing machines and dishwashers, low power motors for industrial applications, plus many other types of motor control applications including compressors and fans. 
Starter kit for microcontrollers is said to simplify product development and reduce time to marketRenesas Technology Europe has expanded its line-up of Renesas Starter Kits with the introduction of three kits for use with its SuperH microcontrollers. Renesas' low cost RSKs are user friendly and supplied with board, display, debugger and software, which comprise a complete kit that saves on product development time. 
High-Performance 16-bit Microcontroller and DSC Families from MicrochipMicrochip has announced two high-performance (40MIPS), low pin count (18- and 28-pin) 16-bit product families – the PIC24HJ12GP family of microcontrollers and the dsPIC33FJ12GP family of Digital Signal Controllers. Both families feature Peripheral Pin Select capability, which allows designers to re-map digital I/O – allowing designers to use smaller pin count devices, minimise board space, and optimise board layout to reduce noise. 
FRAM-enhanced MCU family enhanced with industry standard 8051-based drop-inRamtron International has launched the VRS51L3174, an 8051-based microcontroller with 8 kilobytes (KB) of non-volatile FRAM memory that drops into industry standard 44-pin QFP sockets for easy device migration. Ramtron has added FRAM to its fast and flexible Versa 8051s for a quick and reliable non-volatile data storage and processing system that, the company says, only a FRAM-Enhanced MCU can provide. 
Atmel micro offers 80 MIPS performance at 40mA from new AVR32 UC coreNu Horizons announces availability of the AVR32 UC3A, the first microcontroller based on Atmel's new AVR32 UC core. Delivering 80 Dhrystone MIPS performance while consuming just 40mA from a 3.3V supply at 66MHz clock speed, the devices feature up to 512KB Flash and 64KB RAM, an Ethernet MAC, a USB OTG controller and External Bus Interface (EBI), all of which minimise external component count. The EBI enables easy interfacing to external SRAM and SDRAM. The large SRAM allows implementation of buffered algorithms for communications protocol management and typical applications include industrial automation, building control systems, medial instrumentation, test and measurement, communications systems, and point-of-sale equipment. STR910 Microcontrollers from STMicroelectronics now with Higher Performance and Lower CostSTMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a leading innovator among semiconductor manufacturers, has announced the release of a new version of its successful 32-bit ARM9-based STR910F flash microcontrollers. Through technology enhancements, the new STR910FA delivers 25% greater system performance at a more competitive price, compared to the previous STR910F devices. 
Renesas extends its M16C platformRenesas Technology Europe has announced 12 different M16C/64 group models and 20 different M16C/65 group models for car audio, home audio, and similar consumer products as well as industrial applications, as additions to the M16C Platform microcontroller1 lineup. Sample shipments will begin in July 2007 for the M16C/64 group and at the end of 2007 for the M16C/65 group. 
STM's latest family of 32-bit Flash Microcontrollers is Powered by ARM Cortex-M3 CoreSTMicroelectronics has announced a new family of 32-bit Flash Microcontrollers based on the ARM Cortex-M3 core - a core with features specifically designed for embedded applications requiring a combination of high performance (1.25 Dhrystone MIPS/MHz), low power and low cost. The STM32 family benefits from the Cortex-M3's many new architectural enhancements including the Thumb-2 instruction set to deliver improved performance combined with better code density, and a tightly-coupled Nested Vectored Interrupt Controller for significantly faster response to interrupts, all combined with industry leading power consumption. ST was a lead partner in developing the Cortex-M3 core and is now the first leading MCU supplier to introduce a product family based on the core. 
32-bit microcontroller extending Renesas' M16C PlatformRenesas has announced the R32C/118 group of microcontrollers with on-chip flash memory, as part of the R32C/100 series. This new microcontroller group currently consists of two models, and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including industrial equipment and consumer electronics such as audio components. Sample shipments will begin in September 2007. STMicroelectronics Partners with Gemalto to Create Turnkey Microcontroller for Smart-Card Reader ApplicationsSTMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM) today announced a single-chip microcontroller solution intended for both PC-integrated and freestanding smart-card applications resulting from a partnership agreement with Gemalto – a world leader in digital security and the world's leading supplier of smart-card readers*. The new ST7GEM is a secure MCU in ST's ST7 family, pre-programmed with smart-card interface software from Gemalto, and requiring the addition of only a few passive external components to become a complete embedded smart-card reader solution. 
Microchip Increases Memory and Lowers the Cost of PIC18 LCD MicrocontrollersMicrochip announces six new members of its 8-bit PIC® microcontroller family featuring an integrated Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD) module. The PIC18F85J90 family doubles the amount of Flash and RAM memory available in 64- and 80-pin PIC18 LCD devices. This increased memory enables users to add more complex functionality, such as speech playback, while taking advantage of the cost savings offered by the PIC18 "J" series' 3-volt manufacturing process. High Speed Low Power Atmel AVR Microcontroller With 10-bit ADCRapid has introduced a new addition to the stocked range of AVR Flash Microcontrollers, targeting battery chargers, sensor end-points and low-end motor control applications. The ATtiny44, Rapid code 73-4332, has 4 KB of Self-Programmable Flash memory and delivers 20 MIPS throughput when running at 20 MHz. It is available ex-stock at Rapid in a 14-pin surface mount plastic package. 
Development Kit for STR9 ARM966E Core-based MCUs with Ethernet ConnectivitySTMicroelectronics has announced a complete, low-cost evaluation and development kit for the company's powerful STR91x 32-bit microcontroller family, which is based on the ARM966E core and is particularly suited to networked embedded applications. The new STR9-comStick – configured as a 'USB stick' with a built-in USB connector that enables it to plug directly into a host PC – has a recommended resale price of just $49, and is supplied with a complete Hitex software tool set. Renesas Technology to develop new CPU architecture for microcontrollersRenesas has announced that it is in the process of developing a new CPU architecture that will provide revolutionary enhancements over previous generation microcontrollers (MCUs) in code-efficiency*1, processing performance (MIPS/MHz), and power consumption. Based on the new architecture, Renesas will offer two CPUs to address 16- and 32-bit markets, while maintaining compatibility with Renesas' existing MCUs. The architecture will provide upgrade paths for both markets, delivering a powerful and compelling system solution for Renesas' MCU customers. 
Arrow expands support for ARM designs with development kit for STM's STR710 ARM7 microArrow has expanded its support for ARM-based applications by creating a new development environment that allows engineers to easily and rapidly evaluate, prototype and test designs built around the STMicroelectronics STR710 ARM7 microcontroller. 
ARM7 micros with 2x Flash capacity from Nu HorizonsNu Horizons is now stocking the AT91SAM7S, SAM7X and SAM7XC processors from Atmel. These ARM7TDMI processors are now available with 512Kbytes of Flash memory, double the previous capacity. This means that software engineers can integrate new features through in-application programming. The price premium for this doubled capacity is less than 20%. 8-pin Microcontroller Family with Increased Memory and System FeaturesSTMicroelectronics has completed its ST7 UltraLite family of tiny 8-pin microcontrollers – intended for simple and very cost-sensitive applications – with the introduction of the ST7FLITEU0 series, which adds more memory and valuable system features to the rich peripheral set of the existing devices. Its availability in 8-pin SO, DIP and 0.9mm-thick DFN packages, with temperature qualification up to 125 degrees C, makes the new series an ideal choice for HVAC home appliance, lighting control and power-tool markets. 
MCUs Reduce Component Count for One and Multi-phase MeteringAs utility companies adopt electronic-based meter reading technology to reduce costs while offering new services and energy-saving consumer options, Texas Instruments has announced the sampling of its 16 MHz MSP430F47x4 ultra-low power microcontrollers (MCU) for one- and multi-phase metering. By integrating up to four individual 16-bit sigma delta analog to digital converters (ADCs), a 32x32-bit hardware multiplier, a 160 segment LCD driver with contrast control, up to 60 KB of flash memory and a real time clock (RTC), the F47x4 devices enable a five-to-one reduction in system components. TI's utility metering portfolio also includes devices targeted at water and gas metering, as well as power line communications (PLC) and radio frequency (RF) interfaces for automated meter reading (AMR). 16-Bit dedicated contactless smart card microcontroller for payment and ID applicationsRenesas Technology Europe has introduced the AE41R dedicated contactless smart card microcontroller for use in the payment and ID fields. Enabling lower-cost smart card implementation, the device is Renesas Technology's first dedicated contactless smart card microcontroller. The AE41R is a member of the AE-4 Series incorporating a smart card microcontroller oriented AE-4 CPU core, and it includes an interface compliant with the ISO 14443 Type-B standard that is well established in the fields of contactless financial and ID applications. This enables low-cost implementation of a contactless system compatible smart card offering a high level of user convenience and simple operator maintenance. 
AVR micros for USB applications allow direct in-system programmingAvailable from Nu Horizons, Atmel's latest 8-bit AVR micros, dubbed the AT90USB82 and AT90USB162 feature a 12 Mbits/s controller and 8 or 16 Kbytes of memory respectively. The memory can be programmed in-system directly through the USB interface and on-chip EEPROM of 512 bytes enables parameters to be set without interference to the application. This simplifies manufacturing, cuts costs and reduces equipment size because the programme can be loaded at the end of the production line without the need for a dedicated in-system programming connector. Programming takes under 0.15s for 4KB and under 0.5s for 12KB. Communication with external components is via an SPI and UART interface and a 100mA on-chip voltage regulator can also power companion devices such as RF transceivers for wireless adapters or laser sensors for high-performance mice. 
16-bit Microcontrollers with 64 Kbytes of Flash in 28-pin PackagesMicrochip announces eight new members of its PIC24F 16-bit microcontroller family, with up to 64 Kbytes of Flash program memory and up to 8 Kbytes of RAM, in smaller, lower cost, 28- and 44-pin packages including a tiny 6x6 mm 28-pin QFN package option. The 28 and 44-pin PIC24FJ64GA004 family contains a similar peripheral set to the 100-pin PIC24FJ128GA family. "Peripheral Pin Select" pin-mapping allows designers to use the available pins exactly as they like. For many applications, this can allow the use of a smaller, more cost-effective microcontroller. The wide range of on-board peripherals includes two independent channels each of I2C UART and SPI communications. Probe Supports Tensilica’s ProcessorsByteTools and Tensilica have announced that ByteTools' Catapult JTAG probes are available for Tensilica's Diamond Standard and Xtensa configurable processors. The high-performance, low-cost Catapult devices work out-of-the-box with Tensilica's software development tools, meaning that users need not install any additional software. Catapult probes interface to the standard XOCD 14-pin JTAG header, with Catapult EJ-1 offering an Ethernet host interface, and Catapult UJ-1 offering a USB host interface. 
8-bit microcontroller targets automotive and industrial applicationsToshiba's latest compact 8-bit CMOS microcontroller combines 16kByte of SuperFlash memory with a large number of serial interfaces and new analogue IP blocks for LVD (low voltage detector) and POR (power on reset) functionality. The TMP86FH92 is based on Toshiba's low-power, high-performance TLCS870/C core and is ideally suited to automotive and industrial applications including actuator control, sensor interfacing and power supervision. A fully automotive qualified version of the device is available. 
Actel and ARM develop high-performance 32-bit processor optimised for FPGAsActel today announced the availability of its implementation of the ARM Cortex-M1 processor, a small, high-performance, 32-bit soft core co-developed by the companies for optimal use in field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Removing the license and royalty fees typically associated with licensing models for industry-leading processor cores, Actel offers free access to advanced ARM processor technology to the broad marketplace. The free delivery of the Cortex-M1 processor for use in Actel's flash-based, M1-enabled Actel Fusion and ProASIC3 FPGAs provides system designers programmable flexibility and system-level integration, enabling the development of low-cost, high-performance systems. 
Analog Devices expands its Blackfin processor familyAnalog Devices is expanding its Blackfin line with the ADSP-BF52x family, a scalable series of processors optimised for performance-demanding portable applications including portable media players (PMPs), voice over IP (VoIP) phones, IP cameras, and mobile TV devices. Advancing the Dynamic Power Management capabilities of Blackfin to achieve the line's best power efficiency yet (as low as 0.16mW/MHz core power at 250MHz) these newest processors offer system designers a breadth of choice with a high-performance/low-power series (ADSP-BF527/BF525/BF522) operating at 600MHz, and an ultra-low-power series running at up to 400MHz. 
8-Bit Microcontroller Product RangeMicrochip announces the 12-member PIC18F87J11 high-performance 8-bit microcontroller family, offering greater performance (up to 12 MIPS at 48 MHz), enhanced peripherals and lower standby power consumption. The new family includes nanoWatt Technology for low power consumption in sleep mode (as low as 100 nA) which is ideal for battery-powered applications. The new devices are also the first Microchip 8-bit microcontrollers to offer the Parallel Master Port for connection to external devices. 8-BIT MCU is ideal for consumer and industrial applicationsSilicon Laboratories has announced at International IC-China Conference and Exhibition/Embedded Systems Conference-China 2007 a highly integrated 8-bit MCU combining a 25 MIPS CPU, 10-bit 500 ksps ADC and an internal ±2 % oscillator in a 3x3 mm package. The C8051T60x product family adds to Silicon Laboratories' portfolio of over 60 high-performance Small Form Factor MCUs. The C8051T60x is ideal for consumer and industrial applications including toys, camera modules, cell phone accessories, portable devices, home appliances and motor controllers. 
Microchip Introduces New General-Purpose Small PIC® MicrocontrollerMicrochip announces the PIC16F882 - the lowest-cost member of the PIC18F88X family yet. The PIC16F882 provides design engineers with a lower-cost migration option. The PIC16F882, along with the other four members of the PIC16F88X family, are pin- and code-compatible with other 28/40-pin PIC® Microcontrollers - offering a wide range of migration options, while providing a host of new features. The PIC16F88X enhancements include dual internal oscillators with clock switching and fail-safe clock mode; up to 14 ADC channels; an advanced dual comparator module featuring a Set/Reset Latch; and low-power enhancements that extend battery life. 8-bit Microcontroller Family Now Qualified for Automotive ApplicationsSTMicroelectronics has announced that its ST7FMC microcontroller family has been Automotive-Grade qualified to meet the specific and rigorous demands of the automotive market. Built around an industry-standard 8-bit core and designed for driving Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motors, the microcontroller family is ideal for use in various car body applications such as fuel and water pumps, cooling fans and interior blowers. 
Multi-function quad output controller supports three major power functions in notebook computingIntersil has introduced a high-efficiency, multi-function quad output controller that reduces engineering resources by allowing designers to qualify one part for all three power functions within the architecture of a notebook computer. SDIO and CE-ATA Connectivity Solutions for Marvell's newest-generation PXA3xx processor familyQuickLogic Europe announces the availability of ultra-low power connectivity solutions between SDIO and CE-ATA-based peripherals and Marvell's newest-generation PXA3xx processor family. The solutions have been system-proven through a QuickLogic daughter board connecting to a PXA3xx-based evaluation board from Sophia Systems. 
Demo- board gives ‘out-of-box’ evaluation of STM's 8-bit microsArrow Electronics is offering a low-cost USB disk demonstration board that allows embedded systems designers to quickly and easily evaluate the latest high-performance µPSD3400 Turbo Plus series of 8-bit microcontroller from STMicroelectronics. Designed for direct connection to a PC USB interface, the DK3420 demonstration board effectively emulates a small USB flash disk based around a µPSD3400 Turbo Plus device. 
32-bit Digital Signal Controller for $3.25 from TIDelivering a clear path to innovative and cost-effective industrial control applications like digital power conversion, motor control and advanced sensing, Texas Instruments has announced volume availability of four low-cost TMS320F280xx digital signal processor-based controllers. The TMS320F28015 and F28016 digital signal controllers offer 60 MHz of performance starting as low as $3.25 (in 1Ku quantities); TMS320F2801-60 and F2802-60 controllers also offer 60 MHz of performance and are based on the current TMS320F2801 and F2802 devices. As designers consider upgrading existing microcontroller- (MCU) based designs, TI's F280xx controllers now offer a portfolio of eleven software and pin-for-pin compatible devices with 32-bit DSP performance combined with the peripheral integration and ease-of-use of an MCU. 
Highly integrated 480 MIPS SuperH microcontroller replaces industrial PCs, gives many benefits whilst reducing costPreviewed at Electronica, Renesas Technology's SH7203 integrated microcontroller offers a performance level that in many applications enables it to replace an industrial PC. 
TI makes cars saferAccelerating the trend towards safer, but less complex automotive chassis control applications, Texas Instruments has introduced a new symmetrical dual-core microcontroller (MCU). The TMS570 MCU is the first automotive processor solution to support a certification according to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61508 SIL3 standard - the highest level of safety that is designated for automotive applications. Co-developed with Robert Bosch GmbH, a leading global supplier of automotive technology, the TMS570 MCU will be implemented in next generation braking, steering and chassis control applications. 32-bit microcontroller platform for automotive displaysTexas Instruments has announced an expansion of the 32-bit TMS470 microcontroller (MCU) platform, offering new devices for instrument cluster host controller applications. As the amount of information displayed in vehicles increases - from enhanced vehicle diagnostics and driver assistance features such as rear park assist cameras, to digital media and full real-time navigation systems - drivers demand higher performance graphics and more highly integrated displays. 
MCU family is designed specifically for automotive electronicsSilicon Laboratories has announced a highly-integrated MCU family designed specifically for automotive electronics. The C8051F52/3x family leverages Silicon Laboratories' proven track-record for designing high-performance mixed-signal MCUs in a small footprint, which is essential for many automotive electronics applications. By offering the highest functional density, the C8051F52/3x family of MCUs provides customers cost-effective and easy-to-use solutions for designing body electronics and other point-of-control applications including power windows, doors, sunroofs, trunks, seat positioning and mirrors. 
Microcontrollers With High-Speed 12-bit ADCMicrochip announces its four-member PIC18F4523 family and its first family of high-end 8-bit Flash microcontrollers to include an on-chip high-speed 12-bit Analogue-to-Digital Converter peripheral with up to 13 channels. In addition, this family includes nanoWatt Technology features, which provide design engineers with multiple options for effectively managing power consumption and extending battery life. 
Processor adds high-performance multimedia capabilities to portable devicesRenesas has announced an expansion of its SH-Mobile range application processor from mobile phones into portable navigation devices and portable media players. The first part in a new family of devices designated SH-MobileR is the SH7222. It supports terrestrial digital broadcasting for portable and mobile terminals, offering high-performance moving image processing, on-chip multimedia peripherals including a camera interface, and a processor core running at 266 MHz - some 25% faster than existing SH-Mobile devices. 
Two-phase core controller in tune with AMD's Turion mobile CPUsIntersil has introduced a two-phase core controller with embedded gate drivers to power AMD's next-generation (64-bit Turion) mobile CPUs. The device offers improved transient response and load line accuracy enabled by Intersil's patented R3 (Robust Ripple Regulator) Technology. Intersil's R3 controller uses post package trimming to remove all errors associated with assembly and offers 0.5% accuracy across the entire temperate range, which is the best in the industry. 
Core controllers improve transient response and accuracyThe ISL6260C, ISL6261A and ISL6262A core controllers from Intersil are designed to control Intel's next-generation (Core Duo and Core 2 Duo) Santa Rosa mobile platform. The new family of devices offers improved accuracy in power dissipation reporting and industry-leading transient response and efficiency, enabled by Intersil's patented R3 (Robust Ripple Regulator) Technology. Super-Integrated ARM7-Based Microcontrollers with Full-spec Operation at 3.3Vand 5VSTMicroelectronics has extended its popular STR7 range of 32-bit microcontrollers based on the ARM7TDMI-S core with the introduction of the super-integrated STR750F family. The first general-purpose ARM7 Flash microcontrollers to support full-spec operation at both 3.3V and 5V, the new family delivers 54 MIPS (at 60MHz) performance while providing outstanding low power modes down to 12μA in STOP or 10μA in STANDBY modes, making it ideal for battery-operated applications. The ability to operate from either 3.3V or 5V gives maximum flexibility in electrically noisy environments without additional costs. 
Flash microcontroller from Renesas will enable next generation motor drivesRenesas has introduced the SH7211F, what it says is the fastest general purpose flash microcontroller to date. Featuring two banks of Renesas' leading-edge MONOS flash that is at least twice as fast as its closest competitor, the device is ideal for use in 'next generation' motor drives and many other high performance industrial systems requiring excellent real-time-behaviour, as well as general purpose applications. MONOS, by the way stands for Metal Oxide Nitride Oxide Silicon Technology. 
Starter Kit speeds development of Toshiba's 16-bit SuperFlash microcontrollersToshiba Electronics Europe has launched a Starter Kit that will help engineers to rapidly and cost-effectively develop and prototype applications based on the company's latest 16-bit SuperFlash microcontroller. Evaluation and development platform for Silicon Labs' C8051F mixed-signal microcontrollersSilicon Laboratories has introduced the ToolStick Starter Kit, a comprehensive evaluation and development platform for use with Silicon Laboratories' C8051F mixed-signal microcontrollers. Available in a portable USB stick format, the ToolStickSK provides an easy to use and feature rich tool for only $24.99. From mobile handsets to weigh scales, the ToolStickSK simplifies and speeds development of a wide range of applications that can benefit from Silicon Laboratories' mixed-signal MCUs. 
8-bit microcontrollers suit cost-sensitive automotive applicationsSTMicroelectronics has announced a series of 8-bit microcontrollers providing both flexibility and reliability for a wide variety of cost-sensitive automotive applications including wipers, climate control, door locking, sunroof and window lift. 8-bit microcontroller core from Toshiba enables faster processing at lower frequenciesToshiba Electronics Europe has announced a new 8-bit microcontroller core. Designated TLCS-870/C1, the new core is capable of processing one instruction cycle in a single clock cycle, enabling faster processing at lower frequencies, reduced noise and lower power consumption compared with Toshiba's previous 8-bit core. Its large-capacity address space is expandable to 128 Kbytes. 
8-bit Microcontrollers With Integrated Ethernet Peripheral Optimised for Embedded ApplicationsMicrochip has announced a family of 8-bit microcontrollers with an integrated IEEE 802.3-compliant Ethernet communications peripheral. The PIC18F97J60 family is optimized for embedded applications, and has an on-chip Medium Access Controller and Physical Layer Device. 
ARM9-based general-purpose micros with internal flash memory from ArrowWhat is said to be the industry's first series of ARM9-based general-purpose micros with internal flash memory, the STR91X family from STMicroelectronics, is now available through Arrow. The devices combine a 16/32-bit ARM966ES RISC processor core, dual-bank flash memory, large SRAM for data or code, and a rich peripheral set Development kit for 32-bit MCU/DSP packs 3x processing power into every clock cycleDT Electronics announces the STK1000 development kit for Atmel's AT32AP700 MCU/DSP chip. The new device, based on the AVR-32 32-bit architecture, is said to execute 3x the processing power per clock cycle of its nearest competitor so that compute intensive algorithms can be executed at lower clock speeds and hence lower power. 
Microcontrollers with Flash and integrated EEPROM memoryMicrochip has announced the PIC18F4685 family of 8-bit high-performance, low-power, 28- and 44-pin Controller Area Network microcontrollers with 80 or 96 Kbytes of Flash and integrated EEPROM memory. This is said to be the largest amount of program memory available on a PIC18 microcontroller with an onboard ECAN module for CAN connectivity. 
New 2 x 3 mm DFN Package for Microchip's 6- and 8-pin MicrocontrollersMicrochip has announced that all of its 6-pin PIC10F microcontroller family are now available in ultra-small 2 mm x 3 mm Dual Flat No-lead (DFN) packages for space-constrained applications. Three members of Microchip's 8-pin Baseline PIC® microcontroller family are also available in a 2x3 DFN, providing additional I/O and functionality with the same footprint. The 2x3 DFN package requires 30 percent less board space than a SOT-23 package, at a reduced height. 
Microchip Offers Unique Advanced Security Features On Its 16-Bit Microcontroller FamilyMicrochip has announced that its dsPIC ® digital signal controllers (DSCs) and PIC24H microcontrollers (MCUs) are the first 16-bit devices on the market with advanced memory security features that allow collaborative sharing of memory, interrupts and peripherals on a single chip, without compromising individual intellectual property (IP). This memory segmentation can eliminate the need to store programs on separate chips in a multi-party design. Texas Instruments Provides OMAP-Vox™ Platform to Power the New SAGEM my700X Multimedia HandsetTexas Instruments Incorporated today announced that Sagem Communication (SAFRAN Group) has chosen the OMAPV1030 chipset from TI's OMAP-Vox platform for its new my700X multimedia handset. Specifically designed to bring multimedia functionality to mass market mobile phones, the OMAPV1030 will enable the SAGEM my700X handset to deliver the latest compelling multimedia applications for the growing EDGE market. The my700X handset is available to consumers today. 
World’s first on-chip image recognition processing IP in a car navigation SoC enables next-generation in-vehicle information systems at lower costRenesas Technology Europe has introduced the SuperH family SH7774 SoC for high-performance in-vehicle information terminals such as next-generation car navigation devices. It combines the world's first image recognition processing function in a car navigation SoC, high-speed 600 MHz operation, and a comprehensive range of on-chip peripheral modules including a 2D graphics engine for map drawing, an audio encoder, and an Ethernet interface. 
Microchip Expands 20-pin PIC® Microcontroller FamilyMicrochip announces two new 20-pin PIC® microcontrollers to further strengthen its 8-bit portfolio. The PIC16F631 provides a cost-effective migration from 8- and 14-pin devices, while the PIC16F677 offers affordable hardware I2C™ & SPI capability. 
Processor for digital TV broadcast capable mobile phones enables VGA-size video recording and playbackRenesas' SH-MobileL3V application processor is designed specifically for use in terrestrial digital broadcast capable mobile phones. The device enables smooth video display and recording - equivalent to that of a standard TV - and it facilitates the extraction of TV broadcast data and conversion to a JPEG image without loss of image quality. It also enables lower power consumption, and importantly, it provides the ability to customise mobile phones to achieve a market edge. 
High-Density Flash Memory Added to Extended Temperature Range 16-bit Microcontroller FamilySTMicroelectronics has announced four new advanced 16-bit microcontrollers in its industry standard ST10 family (ST10F27x). The new MCUs offer up to 832-kbytes of embedded Flash memory and up to 68-kbytes of RAM, plus other enhancements, while maintaining upward hardware and software compatibility with earlier devices, such as the widely used ST10F168 and ST10F269. The family is one of the few product ranges to combine embedded Flash and the -40 to +125 degrees C temperature range. 
Digital Signal Controllers for Intelligent Power Supply ApplicationsMicrochip has announced a new family of 16-bit Digital Signal Controllers for switch-mode power supply designs and other power-conversion applications such as power inverters and Uninterruptible Power Supplies. Low Cost 32-bit Digital Signal ControllerTexas Instruments has added four low cost members to the TMS320F280xx digital signal controller series targeted at motor control, digital power conversion and intelligent sensor control applications. The new TMS320F28015 and F28016 controllers offer 60MHz of performance starting as low as $3.25 (in 1Ku quantities) while the new TMS320F2801-60 and F2802-60 controllers also offer 60 MHz of performance and are based on the current TMS320F2801 and F2802 devices. 
Full-Speed USB 2.0 PIC Microcontrollers from MicrochipMicrochip has announced two Flash PIC® microcontrollers, the PIC18F2450 and PIC18F4450 - both with certified Full-Speed USB 2.0 connectivity for 12 megabits-per-second (Mbps) data-transfer rates, and 12 MIPS (48MHz) processing performance. Combined with a wide variety of on-chip peripherals, nanoWatt Technology power management, and self-programmable Flash memory, these features provide a complete solution for designers working with USB in industrial, medical and many other embedded applications. 
Evaluation and development system supports Ramtron’s FRAM-enhanced 8051 MCURamtron has introduced the VersaKit-30xx, a complete and comprehensive evaluation platform that supports the VRS51L3074, Ramtron's new fully integrated, high performance Versa 8051 microcontroller with 8KB of FRAM memory. 
8051-based microcontroller with non-volatile FRAM memoryRamtron International has launched the VRS51L3074, said to be the market's first 8051-based microcontroller with non-volatile FRAM memory. Ramtron has added FRAM into its Versa 8051s for quick and reliable non-volatile data storage and a processing system that only a FRAM-enhanced MCU can provide. 
Plug-and-play development system supports 8051 MCURamtron has launched the VersaKit-20xx, a complete and comprehensive evaluation platform that supports the VRS51L2070, Ramtron's newest, high performance Versa 8051 microcontroller. 8051 microcontroller delivers the power and speed of a 16-bit MCU without migrating from an 8-bit deviceRamtron International has started shipping the VRS51L2070, a fast and flexible 8051-based microcontroller that delivers the power and speed of a 16-bit MCU without migrating from an 8-bit device. 
ARM9-based general-purpose Flash microcontrollerSTMicroelectronics has combined Ethernet connectivity, an ARM9E processor core, and large embedded SRAM and Flash memories in a general-purpose Flash microcontroller family. Micro-based module had loads of memoryThe Mity Mite is the latest addition to Icop Technology UK's growing range of microprocessor based modules. Powered by a 386SX-40MHz System-on-Chip CPU, the Mity Mite provides 4MB of onboard EDO RAM supported by 512KB of onboard Flash with X-DOS pre-install. Use the Web to match microcontrollers to your needsComputer Solutions has added a self-selection search capability to its Micro-Search web-based 8051 microcontroller database, allowing users to specify in detail those features they require in a micro for their application. 
Host Bridge for PowerPC® Now in ProductionTundra Semiconductor Corporation (TSX: TUN), the leader in System Interconnect, today announced that the Tundra Tsi109 Host Bridge, what is said to be the industry's highest performing host bridge for PowerPC, is in full production. With several host bridges in production and with numerous development platforms available, Tundra is becoming recognized as a market leader of high performance host bridges that meet the performance, power and design support expectations of customers designing with PowerPC. 
Fast and flexible 8051-based microcontrollerRamtron International has previewed its new VRS51L2xxx at the Embedded Systems Conference in San Jose, California. The VRS51L2xxx, which is the newest series in the Versa 8051 MCU family, is a fully integrated, high performance system-on-chip with an advanced 40-MIPS, single cycle 8051-core, a JTAG program/debug interface, digital signal processing (DSP) extensions and a robust digital peripheral set. 
IAR Systems announces support for new microcontrollerIAR Systems has announced what the company claims to be the first independent development tools supporting Luminary Micro's Stellaris™ family of microcontrollers. The Stellaris family features the ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller core. 
Small Form Factor MCU makes the most of a 5 x 5 mm packageSilicon Laboratories microcontrollers has introduced a new MCU that integrates up to 32 kB Flash memory and high-performance analog peripherals, including a SmaRTClock with failsafe recovery features, into a compact 5 x 5 mm package. Its small size makes it ideal for portable equipment, instrumentation and measurement devices, consumer medical products and industrial meters. |
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