Freescale Semiconductor Debuts Tiny ARM-Based Microcontroller For Internet of Things Applications

Freescale Semiconductor announced its smallest-yet MCU, and it’s destined for the many objects in the growing Internet of Things (IoT) trend. The Kinetis KL03 MCU is a 32-bit chip based on ARM, and it promises lower power requirements in smaller devices than existing solutions.

“When size is no longer a barrier to incorporating microcontrollers into edge node devices, we can start to redefine what’s possible for the Internet of Things,” said Rajeev Kumar, Freescale’s director of worldwide marketing and business development in a press release.

Freescale Kinetis MCU

The Kinetis KL03 MCU includes a 48MHz ARM Cortex-MO+ core with 1.71-3.6V operation, 32KB flash memory, 2KB RAM, and 8K ROM with an on-chip boot loader. There’s a 12-bit ADC with internal voltage reference for accuracy, and the chip has low power wake up, a secure time clock, timers for applications including motor control, and it can operate in environments ranging from 85 °C to -40 °C.

The MCU, which fits into the dimple of a golf ball, will begin sampling in April and will see full production ramp up in June. The cost for the microcontrollers will be $0.75, selling in quantities of 100,000 units.