Texas Instruments LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T

Overview

LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, integrated CAN 2.0B controller, 12-bit ADC (1 MSPS), and hibernation module supporting RTC and battery-backed memory. It operates at 50 MHz and targets industrial motor control and embedded automation systems requiring deterministic real-time response.

For engineers reviewing the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T datasheet, LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T pinout, LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T application, or LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 MHz CPU clock, dual UARTs with IrDA support, 8-channel PWM, hibernation current of 1.7 µA, and QFP-100 package with 70 GPIOs.

Technical Context

The LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T implements the ARM Cortex-M3 core with NVIC, SysTick, and MPU for deterministic interrupt handling and memory protection. It integrates a dedicated hibernation module with RTC, battery-backed RAM, and wake-up capability from deep sleep using external pins or RTC match.

Peripherals include two UARTs (one with IrDA SIR), two SSI interfaces, one I²C master/slave, a CAN 2.0B controller, eight 16-bit GPTM timers (with PWM and input capture), and a 12-bit 1-MSPS ADC with four sample sequencers and hardware averaging.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T is housed in a 100-pin LQFP (14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments are defined per TI SPMS062I datasheet Rev I, Section 5.1 and Figure 5–1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.

Compared with TM4C123GH6PM and STM32F103VCT6, the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T offers unique integration of CAN, hibernation with RTC, and hardware ADC averaging in a single chip - reducing system-level component count and simplifying certification for industrial deployments where long-term availability and deterministic low-power behavior are critical.

Availability

LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, building automation, energy metering gateways, and remote monitoring nodes requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for LM3S2965-IBZ50-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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The Stellaris LM3S series was designed as the first ARM Cortex-M3-based microcontroller family for cost-sensitive, real-time industrial applications - emphasizing integrated peripherals, low-power hibernation, and deterministic interrupt latency.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T?

The LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T operates at a maximum CPU clock frequency of 50 MHz. This speed is achieved using an internal PLL driven by the precision internal oscillator or an external crystal. The 50 MHz rating is specified under industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and 3.3 V supply conditions per the TI SPMS062I datasheet. All timing-critical peripherals-including PWM, ADC sampling, and UART baud generation-are synchronized to this clock domain.

Does the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T include an integrated CAN controller?

Yes, the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T includes a fully integrated CAN 2.0B-compliant controller with 32 message objects, programmable bit timing, and FIFO buffering. It supports both standard and extended identifiers and operates up to 1 Mbps. The controller requires only an external CAN transceiver (e.g., SN65HVD230) connected to PE4 (RX) and PE5 (TX) to form a complete CAN node - no additional protocol IC or software stack is needed for basic operation.

What low-power modes does the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T support, and what is its lowest hibernate current?

The LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T supports Sleep, Deep-Sleep, and Hibernate modes. In Hibernate mode-with RTC running and 2 KB of battery-backed RAM retained-the typical current consumption is 1.7 µA at 3.3 V and 25°C. This mode maintains real-time clock accuracy and enables wake-up via external pins, RTC match, or HIB interrupt. The hibernation module uses a separate power domain and can be powered from a coin cell independently of main VDD.

How many ADC channels and sample rates does the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T support?

The LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T features a 12-bit successive-approximation ADC with up to 8 external input channels and 1 internal temperature sensor channel. It achieves a maximum sample rate of 1 MSPS (mega-samples per second) in single-channel mode. Four independent sample sequencers allow flexible triggering (processor, timer, or analog comparator), and hardware averaging of up to 64 samples per conversion improves effective resolution in noisy environments.

Is the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T pin-compatible with any newer Texas Instruments microcontrollers?

Yes, the LM3S2965-IBZ50-A2T is pin-compatible with the Tiva C Series TM4C123GH6PM in the 100-pin LQFP package. TI explicitly documented this migration path in Application Report SPRAAL6, confirming identical pin mapping for power, GPIO, UART, CAN, I²C, SSI, ADC, and timer signals. Firmware porting is simplified due to architectural continuity between the Stellaris and Tiva C families, though register-level access requires minor adaptation for peripheral address changes.