Date: 18/02/2009

32-bit MCUs with built-in Ethernet interface and large capacity memory

NEC Electronics has developed nine new 32-bit all flash microcontroller devices (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.

Originally deployed as a networking technology for office computers, servers, and office automation equipments, Ethernet is now the world's most widespread, wired LAN technology. Over the next few years, Ethernet is expected to be further used for remote and supervisory control of industrial devices, building-management systems, home networks, and utility meters for the gas, water, and electricity.

To add Ethernet functionality in the past, designers had to add a separate Ethernet controller in addition to external memory for network software, but these new MCUs gives those features built-in. The integrated memory eliminates the need for any external memory and the network software can be run using onboard memory alone.

The new products have the following features:

1. On-chip Ethernet media access controller (MAC): Each of the new MCUs integrates one-channel IEEE 802.3-compliant 10/100Base-T Ethernet MAC (Note). This eliminates the need for an external Ethernet controller.
2. With up to 512 KB of flash memory and up to 124 KB of RAM, the V850ES/Jx3 family of MCUs can execute 103 Dhrystone million instructions per second (MIPS) at a clock speeds of 50 MHz. This makes it possible to run network software and system control program using its internal memory only.
3. The new products include full-speed USB 2.0 interface, CAN interface, a motor control timer, and a real-time counter.
4. Network software: NEC provides a array of network software, including an optimized Ethernet driver, and a lightweight transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP) stack.

Price:
1. The sample prices vary depending on memory capacity, package type, and number of pins
2. The 144-pin V850ES/JJ3-E MCU with 512 KB of Flash memory and 124 KB of RAM is priced at U.S. $ 12 per unit

Availability: Mass production of these new products is scheduled to begin in December 2009

For more details please log on to www.necel.com