The ST7263B now adds a 32-kbyte high-density Flash memory variant to the existing 4-kbyte, 8-kbyte, and 16-kbyte devices. For secure applications, the user memory code can be locked using the "read/write protection" feature. The family supports the Device Firmware Update (DFU) class specification which allows the Flash memory content to be upgraded through the USB line, enabling new firmware to be downloaded directly from the Host to the USB product for field upgrades of application software.

A broad range of package options is now available, including SO24, TQFP48 7x7mm, SO34, and SDIP32, and devices can also be supplied in die form, making ST's MCU solution ideal for a range of scalable and cost-sensitive applications.

"Within what is almost certainly the largest USB Flash microcontroller portfolio on the market, our integrated USB solution provides our customers with outstanding flexibility at all stages of the product cycle, from first prototype to production, ensuring reduced cost and minimum time to market," said Jean-Philippe Dumas, ST7 USB Product Line Marketing Manager in ST's Microcontroller Division.

The USB interface embeds an internal 3.3V voltage regulator and a USB transceiver, to minimize the need for external components. It supports low- power modes through the Suspend and Resume operations, and the data exchange between Host and the device is managed through three endpoints with In/Out configuration. With its embedded asynchronous serial communication interface (SCI), the ST7263B series can be used as a simple USB-to-serial bridge, useful for stand-alone applications that occasionally need to interact and exchange short messages with the host computer.

These features, along with built-in supervisor circuitry (Low Voltage Detector) and a fast conversion-time 8-bit A-to-D converter have led this family to be especially popular with both UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) and major gaming peripheral manufacturers.

To simplify USB application design, a state-of-the-art development platform is available, which includes an emulator, firmware, USB libraries, a PC software demonstration, and application notes. The toolset is a major benefit for designers new to the USB protocol, as well as a time-saver for more experienced users.

Available now in production volumes, US pricing is $1.99 in quantities of 10,000 pieces.

    This press release is also available at

    www.st.com/stonline/press/news/year2005/p1673d.htm

... with links to further information on the ST7263B and ST's complete range of 8-bit microcontrollers.

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 2004, the Company's net revenues were $8.76 billion and net earnings were $601 million. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.

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STMicroelectronics

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