STMicroelectronics introduces advanced wireless microcontrollers

     STMicroelectronics unveils the latest prototype of a monolithic wireless microcontroller that supports next-generation smart grid standards. The new microcontrollers are designed to reduce power outages and CO2 emissions while also supporting future lifestyles, including plug-in electric vehicle charging.

     The STM32W microcontroller is the first IEEE802.15.4 certified platform to support the new ZigBee® Smart Energy Profile 2.0 (SEP 2.0) protocol, which defines smart grid environments for a more energy efficient world. The use of the wireless communication protocol stack (ZigBeeIP) based on the latest Internet protocol (IPv6) expands interoperability between different vendors and between their physical layer chips. Among other SEP 2.0 advanced features, the STM32W also supports pre-payment service, load response and power demand management. Microcontrollers and their capabilities enable energy efficient homes and buildings.

     Smart grid products, including connected devices such as appliances, meters and infrastructure monitoring devices with built-in STM32W microcontrollers, are believed to reduce peak load, improve the stability of grid operation, help reduce power consumption, and improve the efficiency of management of various renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, smart grid applications could help the U.S. power industry reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 12 percent, which is equivalent to shutting down 66 conventional coal-fired power plants.

     Based on the ARM® Cortex™-M3 processor core, ST's STM32W has a chip memory capacity of 256KB and increased code density, enabling developers to develop SEP 2.0 compliant smart grid applications. In addition to the IEEE 802.15.4 standard RF interface implemented on the chip, features such as a 16-bit timer, a cryptographic accelerator, and a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter are also important for designers to develop cost-effective stand-alone wireless sensors and control solutions.

     Developers who choose the STM32W for the next generation of wireless products also benefit from the product's close relationship with the STM32 microcontroller. Following the good genes of the STM32 product family, the STM32W is based on the same ARM Cortex-M3 processor core and is compatible with the large STM32 product family. Another advantage is that the STM32W also uses STM32 development tools that developers are familiar with. In addition, the large and active STM32 online developer community provides technical support, development knowledge, and third-party development tools.