Development Tool from STMicroelectronics Opens Performance Monitoring Window on New STM32 ARM Cortex-M3 core-based Microcontrollers

-- STMicroelectronics today announced the STM32 PerformanceStick, a very low cost development package for the recently-announced STM32 Flash microcontroller family based on the ARM® Cortex™-M3 core. This compact tool is designed to provide an easy introduction to the features and capabilities of the new MCU, and in particular to offer a graphical view of its performance characteristics under different conditions. Sample applications and a full Hitex software toolset are included, to encourage and enable the designer to modify and recompile application source code.

The STM32 PerformanceStick is self-contained, with a USB host-PC interface, and gives the developer a window into the performance of the STM32, including its execution speed, power consumption, low power mode operation and code density. The included DashBoard graphical user interface allows users to modify the STM32 configuration and to view the effects of their changes while the application is running – a second ST ARM core-based processor in the PerformanceStick provides an information display in real-time.

The STM32 PerformanceStick is also available as part of a starter kit, with an I/O extension board enabling connection to the STM32’s peripherals, including USB, CAN, USART and IrDA, for further evaluation.

A complete, unlimited Hitex software tool set, allows the user to modify and recompile the application source code, program the STM32, and debug applications as they run on the PerformanceStick. Software tools include the full version of the Tasking C/C++ compiler for ARM, for building and rebuilding applications, and the HiTOP5 development environment for code editing, device programming and application debugging. Source files for the sample applications are provided free, and can be used and adapted for the user’s application. More samples plus documentation, are available on a dedicated web site at www.hitex.com/stm32-stick/.

STM32 PerformanceStick is the only development system for the STM32 to be designed around the concept of evaluating the MCU by direct display of its performance information. At a very low cost it provides a complete ready-to-run solution and is an ideal starting point for designers. The PerformanceStick itself includes an STM32 microcontroller with ARM Cortex™-M3 core running at up to 72 MHz, 128-Kbytes of Flash, and 20-Kbytes of RAM. It plugs directly into the USB port of a host PC for programming and application debugging.

The STM32 PerformanceStick, part number STM3210B-PFSTICK, is available now from stock. The kit includes pre-programmed STM32 and USB connector, software package (HiTop5 IDE, Tasking C/C++ compiler for ARM) for compilation and debugging of user or sample applications; it has a recommended resale price of $59.00. The PerformanceStick with additional I/O extension board, part number STM3210B-SK/HIT, is priced at $109.

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2006, the Company's net revenues were $9.85 billion and net earnings were $782 million. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.