Next-Gen R8C/Tiny MCUs Add 1.8V Support And Co-processing

The latest generation of R8C/Tiny series microcontrollers (MCUs) employ a 16-bit CPU core with on-chip flash memory and extend their operating voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V. The devices also add new and enhanced analog functions including level-only-sensitive power-on reset circuits, d/a converters, and analog comparators. Additionally, overall performance gets a boost via a data transfer controller and a background-operation function for flash memory rewriting. The devices span three groups: the 52-pin MCUs in the R8C/35A group, the 32-pin chips in the R8C/33A group, and the 20-pin devices in the R8C/32A group. All of the additions maintain compatibility with existing R8C/Tiny products. Target applications include home appliances, sensor networks, power-management equipment, and building automation. Prices range from $1.60 to $2.50 each for the R8C/35A group. RENESAS TECHNOLOGY AMERICA INC., San Jose, CA. (408) 382-7407.