Texas Instruments LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T

Overview

LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, integrated CAN 2.0A/B controller, 12-bit ADC (up to 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-IQC50-A2T datasheet, LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T pinout, LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T application, or LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated CAN interface, hibernation power management, dual UARTs with IrDA support, and hardware-accelerated PWM timing for motor drive control.

Technical Context

The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T implements the ARM Cortex-M3 core with NVIC, SysTick, and MPU, enabling deterministic interrupt handling and memory protection in safety-critical embedded environments. Its peripheral set includes two CAN controllers, four UARTs (one with IrDA), two SSI modules, and an I²C interface - all clocked from a programmable PLL-based system clock up to 50 MHz.

Hibernation mode enables ultra-low-power operation with RTC wake-up and 2 KB of battery-backed SRAM retention. The analog subsystem integrates a 12-bit, 1-MSPS ADC with eight sample sequencers and internal temperature sensor, supporting closed-loop control without external signal conditioning.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T is housed in a 100-pin LQFP (14 mm × 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 STM32F103ZET6, the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T uniquely delivers hibernation with RTC and battery-backed SRAM in a mature, production-qualified Cortex-M3 platform - making it optimal for legacy industrial designs where low-power state retention is mandatory and migration risk must be minimized.

Availability

LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, building automation systems, energy metering terminals, and remote industrial I/O modules requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence planning.

Supply support for LM3S2965-IQC50-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 solutions, with decades of experience in industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The Stellaris LM3S series was designed specifically for deterministic real-time embedded control - integrating motor control peripherals, industrial communication interfaces, and ultra-low-power hibernation to address factory automation, HVAC, and smart grid applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T?

The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 50 MHz, achieved via its internal PLL driven by either an external crystal (4–25 MHz) or internal oscillator. This speed is specified under industrial temperature range (–40°C to +105°C) and 3.3 V supply conditions per TI SPMS062I datasheet Section 5.2.4. The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T maintains timing integrity across its entire peripheral set at this frequency.

Does the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T support CAN FD or only classical CAN?

The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T supports only Classical CAN (CAN 2.0A/B) with bit rates up to 1 Mbps, as confirmed in Section 15.3 of the SPMS062I datasheet. It does not implement CAN FD features such as flexible data-rate, extended data length, or CRC enhancements. The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T's dual CAN controllers are fully compatible with ISO 11898-1:2003 and support both standard and extended identifiers.

What power modes does the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T support besides active mode?

The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T supports Sleep, Deep-Sleep, and Hibernation modes. Hibernation mode draws less than 1.5 μA while retaining RTC operation and 2 KB of SRAM using an external battery. Sleep and Deep-Sleep reduce dynamic power via clock gating and processor stall, with wake-up sources including GPIO, UART, CAN, and timer interrupts. All modes are documented in Section 6 of the SPMS062I datasheet.

Is USB functionality available on the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T, and what type does it support?

Yes, the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T integrates a full-speed USB 2.0 device controller with on-chip PHY, supporting 12 Mbps operation. It implements USB device classes including CDC (virtual COM port), HID, and MSC without requiring external transceivers. USB functionality is enabled via dedicated USB0VBUS, USB0ID, and differential D+/D− pins, and is detailed in Section 16 of the SPMS062I datasheet.

How many ADC channels and what sampling rate does the LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T provide?

The LM3S2965-IQC50-A2T features a single 12-bit ADC with up to 16 external input channels and an internal temperature sensor. It achieves up to 1 million samples per second (1 MSPS) in burst mode using hardware sequencers. Conversion results are stored in FIFOs and can trigger DMA transfers or interrupts. This capability is specified in Section 11.3.4 and Table 11–1 of the SPMS062I datasheet.