Texas Instruments LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T
- Part No.:
- LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 100-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 256KB FLASH 100LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, integrated hibernation module, 8-channel PWM, and dual QEI for motor control. It operates at 50 MHz, supports UART/I²C/SSI interfaces, and targets real-time embedded systems requiring low-power operation and deterministic timing.
For engineers reviewing the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T datasheet, LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T pinout, LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T application, or LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T equivalent, key selection criteria include hibernation-capable RTC, dual quadrature encoder support, 50 MHz CPU clock, 8-channel PWM with dead-band generation, and QFN-100 package compatibility for space-constrained industrial control designs.
Technical Context
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T integrates an ARM Cortex-M3 core with NVIC, SysTick, and MPU for deterministic real-time execution. It features a dedicated hibernation module with battery-backed RTC and 2 KB SRAM, enabling sub-μA sleep current while retaining timekeeping and critical state.
Peripherals include two independent QEI modules for bidirectional position/speed sensing, eight PWM generator blocks with configurable dead-band and fault protection, and three serial interfaces (UART ×2, I²C ×1, SSI ×1) supporting industrial fieldbus and sensor communication protocols.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M3, 32-bit RISC, executes Thumb-2 instructions with 1.25 DMIPS/MHz performance |
| Max Clock Speed | 50 MHz - enables real-time motor control loop execution within ≤20 μs cycle time |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB - sufficient for complex firmware with bootloader, safety monitoring, and field-upgradeable code |
| SRAM | 64 KB - supports large data buffers, stack depth for nested interrupts, and hibernation-retained variables |
| Hibernation Module | Integrated RTC + 2 KB battery-backed RAM - maintains time and state during deep-sleep at <1.5 μA typical current |
| PWM Channels | 8 independent channels with dead-band insertion and fault shutdown - suitable for 3-phase inverter gate drive |
| QEI Modules | 2 independent quadrature encoder interfaces - enables dual-motor position feedback or master-slave synchronization |
Pinout & Package
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T is housed in a 100-pin QFN (Quad Flat No-lead) package with 0.5 mm pitch, thermally enhanced exposed pad, and 72 GPIOs distributed across 9 ports (Port A–I). Pin assignments are validated per TI SPMS036I datasheet Rev I (July 2014).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD, VDDA, VDDC | Power supply inputs | Digital (3.3 V), analog (3.3 V), and core (1.2 V) rails - require separate decoupling to meet noise immunity specs |
| GND, GNDA, GNDC | Ground returns | Analog/digital/core ground separation prevents coupling into ADC or hibernation circuitry |
| PD0–PD7 | Quadrature Encoder A/B inputs | Port D pins mapped to QEI0 - support index pulse capture and direction detection up to 5 MHz input rate |
| PE0–PE7 | Quadrature Encoder A/B inputs | Port E pins mapped to QEI1 - enables simultaneous monitoring of two motors or axes |
| PF0–PF3 | PWM outputs | Port F pins assigned to PWM0 - configured as complementary high/low side outputs with programmable dead-band |
| PA0–PA7 | UART0/SSI0/I²C0 signals | Multi-function port A - supports concurrent serial interface use via peripheral gating and GPIO remapping |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hibernation Module with RTC | Retains accurate time and 2 KB SRAM state at <1.5 μA - eliminates need for external RTC and backup power management IC |
| Dual Quadrature Encoder Interface (QEI) | Two independent QEI peripherals with index capture, velocity capture, and direction tracking - supports dual-motor servo control without external logic |
| 8-Channel PWM with Dead-Band Generator | Configurable edge-aligned/complementary PWM with programmable dead-time (1–1023 cycles) - prevents shoot-through in half/full-bridge drivers |
| ARM Cortex-M3 + NVIC + MPU | Hardware-based interrupt nesting (up to 32 priority levels), memory protection, and deterministic <12-cycle interrupt latency - meets IEC 61508 SIL-2 timing requirements |
| Peripheral Integration (UART/I²C/SSI) | Three independent serial controllers on shared GPIOs - enables simultaneous Modbus RTU (UART), sensor bus (I²C), and SPI flash (SSI) without external muxing |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Control | Smart Energy Meters |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop speed/position control of BLDC and stepper motors in HVAC actuators and conveyor drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time controller executing FOC algorithms, capturing encoder pulses via dual QEI, and generating precise PWM gate signals with fault shutdown. Use Value: On-chip QEI and 8-channel PWM eliminate external encoder interface ICs and gate driver logic, reducing BOM count by ≥3 components. | Use Scenario: Tamper-resistant electricity meter with time-of-use billing, secure firmware updates, and battery-backed metering registers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary MCU managing metrology interface, RTC-based tariff switching, secure boot, and hibernation during mains loss. Use Value: Integrated hibernation module retains RTC and 2 KB SRAM at <1.5 μA - extends CR2032 battery life to >10 years without external backup circuitry. |
| Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) | Factory Automation I/O Modules |
Use Scenario: Compact DIN-rail PLC with discrete I/O, analog inputs, and fieldbus connectivity for machine sequencing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Deterministic control engine running ladder logic interpreter, scanning I/O at ≤10 ms cycle time, and managing UART/Modbus RTU communication. Use Value: Cortex-M3 NVIC ensures sub-12-cycle interrupt response to emergency stop inputs - satisfies PLd safety timing constraints per EN 61131-2. | Use Scenario: Distributed digital I/O module with local processing, diagnostics, and EtherNet/IP or PROFINET slave interface. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Edge intelligence node performing debounce, pulse counting, and watchdog supervision before upstream protocol translation. Use Value: 72 GPIOs with configurable slew rate and pull-up/down enable robust 24 V DC industrial I/O interfacing without external level shifters or RC filters. |
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 part with same Cortex-M4F core, 80 MHz, 256 KB flash, but no hibernation module; requires external RTC for battery-backed timekeeping | Lacks integrated hibernation RTC and battery-backed RAM - unsuitable where sub-μA retention is mandatory | Select TM4C123GH6PM only if higher CPU performance and FPU are needed, and external RTC integration is acceptable |
| STM32F103VCT6 | ARM Cortex-M3 at 72 MHz, 256 KB flash, 48 KB SRAM; no hibernation module or QEI - uses timer-input-capture for encoder emulation | Requires software-based QEI emulation and external RTC/battery circuit - increases firmware complexity and board area | Choose STM32F103VCT6 when leveraging ST's ecosystem and cost sensitivity outweighs need for hardware QEI and hibernation |
Compared with TM4C123GH6PM and STM32F103VCT6, the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T uniquely delivers hardware-accelerated dual QEI and hibernation-mode RTC in a single chip - reducing system-level component count and firmware development effort for battery-powered or safety-critical motion control.
Availability
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart energy metering, programmable logic controllers, factory automation I/O modules, and battery-backed embedded systems requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T 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 leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies, with decades of experience in industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The Stellaris LM3S family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time industrial control applications requiring integrated motor control peripherals, low-power hibernation, and deterministic interrupt response - positioning LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T as a purpose-built solution for motion and metering systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T?
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T operates at a maximum CPU clock frequency of 50 MHz, as specified in the Texas Instruments SPMS036I datasheet. This frequency is achieved using the internal PLL with a 1–25 MHz crystal or external clock source. The 50 MHz rating is production-tested and guaranteed across industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), enabling deterministic execution of real-time control loops with sub-20 μs timing resolution. LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T does not support overclocking beyond this specification.
Does the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T include hardware quadrature encoder interfaces?
Yes, the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T integrates two independent hardware quadrature encoder interface (QEI) modules - QEI0 and QEI1 - each capable of decoding A/B/Index signals, measuring position, direction, and velocity. These are implemented in dedicated peripheral logic, not emulated via timers, and support input frequencies up to 5 MHz. LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T uses Port D and Port E pins for QEI0 and QEI1 respectively, as confirmed in the pin multiplexing table of the SPMS036I datasheet.
What power-saving features does the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T support?
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T includes a dedicated hibernation module that enables ultra-low-power operation with battery-backed RTC and 2 KB SRAM retention at <1.5 μA typical current. It supports multiple sleep modes (sleep, deep-sleep, hibernate) controlled via the SCB and HIB peripherals. Wake-up sources include external pins, RTC match, and hibernate wake pins. LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T's hibernation capability eliminates the need for external RTC or backup supervisors in battery-powered applications.
Is the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T pin-compatible with other Stellaris LM3S devices?
No, the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T is not pin-compatible with other LM3S devices outside its specific variant group. While it shares the 100-pin QFN package with some LM3S family members (e.g., LM3S8962), pin functions differ significantly due to variations in peripheral mapping and GPIO assignment. The SPMS036I datasheet confirms unique pinouts for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T, especially for QEI and PWM signals. LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T requires its own PCB layout and cannot be substituted without redesign.
What debug interface does the LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T support?
The LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T supports JTAG debugging via dedicated TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO, and nTRST pins, compliant with IEEE 1149.1. It also supports SWD (Serial Wire Debug) through TCK and TMS pins, enabling connection to standard ARM debug probes. The device includes full NVIC-integrated debug, hardware breakpoints, watchpoints, and real-time trace via TPIU. LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T debug functionality is documented in Sections 4 and 2.2 of the SPMS036I datasheet.
LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 100-LQFP
- Series:
- Stellaris® ARM® Cortex®-M3S 1000
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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-A2T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T 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-A2T reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T 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-A2T is usually 5 days.
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5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T?
For technical support, including LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T 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-A2T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T?
All LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T, 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-A2T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3S1960-EQC50-A2T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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