In industrial control, connected edge nodes, data acquisition, and embedded system design, developers increasingly demand microcontrollers that not only provide rich peripheral resources and high reliability but can also simultaneously handle communication, control, and data processing tasks. The STR912FAW46X6, launched by STMicroelectronics as part of the STR91xFA family, integrates a high-performance ARM966E-S core with on-chip Ethernet, USB, CAN, DMA, and ADC modules, delivering a comprehensive embedded control platform well-suited for resource-constrained, high-reliability system designs.
Product Overview
The STR912FAW46X6 is a 32-bit microcontroller based on the ARM966E-S architecture, running at up to 96 MHz. It integrates up to 1 MB of Flash program memory and 96 KB of SRAM, supporting zero-wait-state access and data retention during power loss. In addition, it provides a dedicated Boot Flash region (up to 128 KB) for bootloaders, configuration data, or secure partitions.
The device incorporates an Ethernet MAC controller and USB device interface, enabling streamlined wired communication solutions. Rich peripheral interfaces such as UART, SPI, and I²C support concurrent peripheral operation. With 9 DMA channels and a high-speed ADC, it can meet demanding real-time industrial data acquisition needs.
Key Technical Specifications
CPU Core | ARM966E-S, up to 96 MHz |
Memory | 1 MB main Flash, with separate Boot Flash region |
Communication | Ethernet MAC, USB FS, CAN 2.0B, 3 × UART, 2 × SPI, 2 × I²C |
Analog | 8-channel 10-bit ADC, ~0.7 μs conversion time |
Timers | Four 16-bit general-purpose timers with PWM/capture/compare |
DMA | 9 programmable channels, supports linked-list transfers |
Package | LQFP128, industrial grade (–40 °C to +85 °C) |
Application Advantages and Typical Use Cases
- Industrial Automation and Intelligent Sensor Nodes
With support for CAN, UART, SPI, and other fieldbus protocols, along with integrated ADC and DMA, the STR912FAW46X6 is well-suited for sensor nodes and remote signal acquisition modules. - Network Communication and Edge Data Processing
The built-in Ethernet MAC and USB 2.0 interface, combined with the processing efficiency of the ARM966E-S core, make it capable of running lightweight TCP/IP stacks, supporting local data handling, upload, and device management. - Multitasking Embedded Controllers
With balanced Flash and SRAM resources, the MCU supports RTOS execution, time-sliced scheduling, and multi-peripheral drivers, suitable for industrial HMIs, intelligent control panels, and motion control units. - Motor Control and Industrial I/O Modules
Timer-based PWM generation, combined with ADC and DMA, enables closed-loop control systems. It is flexible enough to handle multi-motor or multi-actuator applications.
System Integration Guidelines
- Flash Usage and Code Protection: Recommended to implement a Bootloader + main application partition using the main Flash and Boot Flash. Suitable for secure data storage. Supports page erase and write protection.
- DMA and ADC Coordination: For high-speed sampling, DMA can be configured in dual-buffer linked-list mode to enhance data continuity in industrial acquisition systems.
- Ethernet Interface Design: Requires an external PHY (e.g., DP83848). Ensure differential pair routing and proper layout of isolation transformers. Follow IEEE 802.3 guidelines.
- Power and EMI Design: Core voltage 1.8 V (supplied via internal LDO), I/O voltage 3.3 V. Partitioned power rails and filtering are recommended for noise suppression. Industrial temperature rating ensures suitability for harsh environments.
During its lifecycle, the STR912FAW46X6 provided a complete embedded control solution through its ARM9 core, 1 MB Flash, Boot Flash partition, and extensive communication and control peripherals. While now discontinued, it still holds value in legacy systems for maintenance and replacement. For new designs, however, the STM32 family is recommended to ensure longer lifecycle support and broader ecosystem availability.
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