Texas Instruments LM3S1960-EQC50-A2
- Part No.:
- LM3S1960-EQC50-A2
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 100-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 256KB FLASH 100LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,838
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, integrated hibernation module, 8-channel PWM, QEI, and dual UARTs. It operates at 50 MHz, supports -40°C to +105°C industrial temperature range, and targets motor control and embedded real-time systems requiring low-power hibernation.
For engineers reviewing the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 datasheet, LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 pinout, LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 application, or LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package mapping, validated alternatives, and design-meaning specifications for industrial motor control, battery-backed timing, and deterministic real-time I/O systems.
Technical Context
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 implements an ARM Cortex-M3 core with Thumb-2 instruction set, NVIC supporting up to 68 interrupts, and memory protection unit (MPU). It integrates a dedicated hibernation module with RTC, battery-backed RAM, and wake-up sources including external pins and RTC match events.
Peripherals include two UARTs with IrDA/SIR support, one SSI, one I²C, eight 16-bit general-purpose timers (with RTC mode), analog comparators, and a six-output PWM block with dead-band generation and QEI interface - all clocked from a configurable PLL-based system clock up to 50 MHz.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M3, 32-bit RISC, Thumb-2 instruction set, 50 MHz max operation |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB on-chip flash with 128-bit wide interface and erase/program in-system |
| SRAM | 64 KB on-chip SRAM, zero-wait-state access at full speed |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +105°C - qualified for extended industrial environments |
| Hibernation Module | Dedicated power domain with RTC, 2 KB battery-backed RAM, and wake-on-RTC-match or GPIO |
| PWM Outputs | 6 independent outputs with configurable dead-band, fault shutdown, and synchronization |
| QEI Interface | Quadrature encoder input with position counter, velocity capture, and index pulse detection |
Pinout & Package
LQFP-100 package (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, thermally enhanced with exposed thermal pad.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD, VDDA, VDDC | Power supply inputs | Separate digital, analog, and core rails enable noise isolation and precise ADC reference stability |
| GND, GNDA, GNDC | Ground returns | Dedicated analog and core ground planes reduce coupling between high-speed logic and sensitive analog circuits |
| GPIOA–GPIOF | Configurable I/O banks | 100-pin package supports up to 80 GPIOs with programmable drive strength, slew rate, and pull-up/down |
| USB0VBUS, USB0ID | USB OTG interface signals | Supports device/host/OTG modes via internal transceiver; VBUS sensing and ID pin detection enabled |
| HIB, RTCCLK, HIBRST | Hibernation control signals | Direct hardware control of hibernation entry/exit, RTC clock source selection, and reset assertion during wake |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hibernation with RTC | Sub-µA hibernate current with integrated RTC, battery-backed RAM, and multiple wake sources - enables years of battery life in remote sensors |
| Motor Control PWM | Six-channel PWM with programmable dead-band, fault shutdown, and synchronous update - eliminates external gate drivers in BLDC/PMSM drives |
| Quadrature Encoder Interface | Hardware position/velocity tracking with index pulse capture and direction detection - offloads CPU in servo and motion control loops |
| Dual UART with IrDA | Two full UARTs with SIR encoding, FIFOs, and automatic baud-rate detection - supports legacy serial diagnostics and IR remote interfaces |
| Memory Protection Unit (MPU) | 8-region MPU enforces privilege-level memory access - required for certified real-time OS deployments and safety-critical partitioning |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Control | Battery-Powered Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop control of BLDC motors in HVAC blowers and industrial pumps using hall-effect or encoder feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time execution host with PWM generation, QEI decoding, and analog comparator-based overcurrent detection. Use Value: Integrated hibernation allows firmware-initiated deep sleep between motion cycles, reducing average power by >95% versus active polling. | Use Scenario: Wireless environmental sensor node logging temperature/humidity with periodic wake-up and data transmission. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System controller managing sensor acquisition, RTC-triggered wake, low-power UART transmission, and hibernation state retention. Use Value: 2 KB battery-backed RAM preserves calibration data and last-read values across multi-year hibernation without external nonvolatile storage. |
| Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) I/O Module | Medical Infusion Pump Controller |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted I/O expansion module with isolated digital inputs, relay outputs, and Modbus RTU communication. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Deterministic real-time processor handling input debouncing, output sequencing, and UART-based protocol stack with <100 µs interrupt latency. Use Value: NVIC with 68 interrupt lines and priority grouping ensures timely response to fieldbus events while maintaining watchdog supervision. | Use Scenario: Safety-critical infusion pump with flow rate monitoring, occlusion detection, and audible/visual alarms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary controller executing FDA-compliant firmware with MPU-enforced memory isolation between safety-critical and UI tasks. Use Value: Dual voltage rails (VDDA/VDD) and dedicated analog ground ensure stable 12-bit ADC readings for pressure transducer signal conditioning. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiva C TM4C123GH6PM | Successor family with same Cortex-M4F core, 80 MHz, FPU, and enhanced peripherals; larger flash (256 KB → 512 KB), no hibernation module | Lacks integrated hibernation and battery-backed RAM; requires external RTC for long-term timekeeping | Select when floating-point math or higher clock speed is required; not drop-in due to peripheral register map changes and missing hibernation registers |
| STM32F103VET6 | Cortex-M3 core at 72 MHz, 512 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM; includes USB but no hibernation module or QEI | No native quadrature encoder interface; requires software-based QEI or external decoder IC | Choose for USB-host applications or where ST's ecosystem/toolchain preference outweighs need for hardware QEI or hibernation |
Compared with TM4C123GH6PM and STM32F103VET6, the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 uniquely delivers hibernation with RTC and battery-backed RAM alongside hardware QEI - making it irreplaceable in ultra-low-power motion-sensing and time-critical industrial edge nodes where external components must be minimized.
Availability
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, battery-powered sensor nodes, PLC I/O modules, and medical infusion pump controllers requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and wireless technologies with over 90 years of innovation in industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics.
The Stellaris LM3S series was designed as TI's first ARM-based microcontroller family targeting deterministic real-time control, low-power hibernation, and integrated analog/motor peripherals - bridging the gap between legacy 8/16-bit MCUs and high-end application processors.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2?
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 50 MHz, achieved via its internal PLL that accepts a 1–25 MHz crystal or external clock input. This frequency is fully supported across all peripherals and memory subsystems, with zero-wait-state access to both flash and SRAM at rated speed. The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 maintains timing compliance under worst-case voltage and temperature conditions per its industrial grade (-40°C to +105°C) qualification.
Does the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 support hardware quadrature encoding?
Yes, the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 includes a dedicated Quadrature Encoder Interface (QEI) peripheral capable of counting pulses, detecting direction, capturing velocity, and recognizing index events - all in hardware without CPU intervention. This QEI block connects directly to GPIO pins and supports both x2 and x4 encoding modes. The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 uses this feature for precise motor shaft position tracking in real-time control loops.
What power-saving features does the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 offer beyond standard sleep modes?
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 integrates a dedicated hibernation module that reduces current consumption to sub-microamp levels by powering down the entire system except for the RTC, 2 KB battery-backed RAM, and wake sources. It supports wake-on-RTC alarm, external GPIO, or HIB interrupt. Unlike standard sleep modes, hibernation retains full state across power loss if a backup battery is connected - a capability confirmed in the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 datasheet Section 6.
Is the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 pin-compatible with other Stellaris LM3S devices?
No, the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 is not pin-compatible with other LM3S devices such as the LM3S811 or LM3S3748. While sharing the LQFP-100 package footprint, pin assignments for peripherals like PWM, QEI, and hibernation signals differ significantly across the LM3S family. The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 has unique signal routing optimized for motor control and hibernation - verified in its specific pinout table (Section 4.3.1 of DS-LM3S1960).
What debug interface does the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 support?
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 supports JTAG debugging via a 5-pin interface (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO, nTRST), compliant with IEEE 1149.1. It includes full SWD (Serial Wire Debug) compatibility through the same pins, enabling use with modern debug probes. The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 also integrates an Embedded Trace Macrocell (ETM) and Trace Port Interface Unit (TPIU) for real-time instruction tracing - documented in Sections 4 and 2.2.3 of the official datasheet.
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 100-LQFP
- Series:
- Stellaris® ARM® Cortex®-M3S 1000
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M3
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, IrDA, Microwire, QEI, SPI, SSI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 60
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 64K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 2.25V ~ 2.75V
- Data Converters:
- -
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2?
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2?
For technical support, including LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3S1960-EQC50-A2?
All LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3S1960-EQC50-A2, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2 Tags

-
ATTINY4-TSHR
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY10-TSHR
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY10-TS8R
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY202-SSNR
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY202-SSFR
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY402-SSNR
Microchip Technology

-
PIC16F15213T-I/MF
Microchip Technology

-
PIC16F15213-E/MF
Microchip Technology

-
PIC10F200T-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY412-SSNR
Microchip Technology

-
PIC10F202T-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
ATTINY404-SSNR
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

