Texas Instruments LM3S301-IQN20-C2
- Part No.:
- LM3S301-IQN20-C2
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 48-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
LM3S301-IQN20-C2.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 16KB FLASH 48LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LM3S301-IQN20-C2 from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 8 KB Flash, 2 KB SRAM, and integrated ADC, UART, SSI, PWM, and GPIO peripherals. It operates at up to 50 MHz, supports 3.3 V operation, and targets low-cost industrial control and sensor interface applications requiring deterministic real-time response.
For engineers reviewing the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 datasheet, LM3S301-IQN20-C2 pinout, LM3S301-IQN20-C2 application, or LM3S301-IQN20-C2 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin QFN package, 50 MHz CPU clock, 10-bit 8-channel ADC, dual UART support, and lack of USB or Ethernet interfaces-making it suitable for space-constrained embedded control where peripheral count and footprint are critical.
Technical Context
The LM3S301-IQN20-C2 implements the ARM Cortex-M3 core with Thumb-2 instruction set, NVIC-based interrupt handling, and SysTick timer. It integrates a single 10-bit ADC with hardware averaging, two UARTs (one with IrDA support), one SSI port, and a 4-channel PWM module with dead-band generation.
Its system-level architecture includes an on-chip LDO regulator, power management for sleep modes (Sleep, Deep-Sleep), and memory protection unit (MPU). The device lacks CAN, USB, or Ethernet controllers and does not support external memory expansion-confirming its role as a compact, self-contained MCU for cost-sensitive, low-peripheral-count applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M3, 32-bit RISC, executes Thumb-2 instructions with deterministic interrupt latency |
| Max Clock Speed | 50 MHz - enables real-time control loops with sub-20 µs ISR response in typical configurations |
| Flash Memory | 8 KB - sufficient for bootloader + compact firmware (e.g., motor control or sensor polling stack) |
| SRAM | 2 KB - supports small data buffers, stack, and register context storage for ≤8 nested interrupts |
| ADC | 10-bit, 8-channel, 1 MSPS - provides adequate resolution for temperature, voltage, and current sensing |
| UARTs | 2 × UART - one supports IrDA physical layer; enables local debug + host communication without external transceivers |
| PWM Channels | 4-channel, 16-bit - supports basic motor drive (e.g., 3-phase BLDC commutation with dead-band) |
| Package | 20-pin QFN (4×4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) - surface-mount, thermally enhanced, no through-hole option |
Pinout & Package
LM3S301-IQN20-C2 uses a 20-pin QFN package (4 mm × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per TI SPMS065I datasheet Rev I, Section 15 (Pin Diagram) and Section 16 (Signal Tables).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Core & I/O supply | 3.3 V nominal input; requires local 100 nF + 1 µF decoupling per TI layout guidelines |
| GND | Ground reference | Must connect to PCB ground plane; thermal pad tied to GND for thermal dissipation |
| GPIOA0 / U0RX | UART0 receive input | Primary debug interface pin; configurable as general-purpose input with Schmitt trigger |
| GPIOA1 / U0TX | UART0 transmit output | Drives 3.3 V logic; open-drain capable only when configured as GPIO with OD enable |
| GPIOA2 / SSI0CLK | SSI0 clock output | Master-mode clock source for SPI-compatible peripherals (e.g., ADCs, DACs) |
| GPIOA3 / SSI0FSS | SSI0 frame select output | Active-low chip select; supports multi-slave SSI bus with software-controlled timing |
| GPIOA4 / SSI0RX | SSI0 receive input | High-impedance CMOS input; compatible with 3.3 V SPI slave devices |
| GPIOA5 / SSI0TX | SSI0 transmit output | Push-pull output; drives standard SPI MOSI line with 20 mA sink/source capability |
| GPIOB0 / U1RX | UART1 receive input | Secondary serial interface; supports RS-232 level translation via external transceiver |
| GPIOB1 / U1TX | UART1 transmit output | 3.3 V logic output; requires external driver for RS-232 compliance |
| GPIOB2 / PWM0 | PWM channel 0 output | Configurable duty cycle and frequency; used for LED dimming or simple motor speed control |
| GPIOB3 / PWM1 | PWM channel 1 output | Independent timing control; pairs with PWM0 for complementary drive in half-bridge topologies |
| GPIOB4 / PWM2 | PWM channel 2 output | Supports center-aligned mode; useful for resonant converter control or audio tone generation |
| GPIOB5 / PWM3 | PWM channel 3 output | Dead-band programmable; required for synchronous rectification or H-bridge gate driving |
| AIN0 | ADC input channel 0 | Analog input with 10-bit resolution; supports internal temperature sensor readout when selected |
| AIN1 | ADC input channel 1 | Dedicated analog input; shares pin with GPIOB6 but not multiplexed with digital functions during ADC sampling |
| RESET | Active-low reset input | Asynchronous reset assertion clears CPU state and peripherals; debounced externally per TI recommendation |
| OSC0 / XTAL | Main oscillator input | Accepts 4–25 MHz crystal or external clock; feeds PLL for 50 MHz system clock generation |
| OSC1 / XTAL | Main oscillator output | Drives crystal in parallel-resonant configuration; must be left unconnected if using external clock |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ARM Cortex-M3 core with NVIC | Enables <12-cycle interrupt latency and prioritized vector handling-critical for time-critical motor control loops |
| On-chip LDO regulator | Accepts 3.3 V ±10% input and regulates internally; eliminates need for external DC/DC or LDO in single-rail designs |
| Hardware ADC averaging | Configurable 2x–64x oversampling reduces noise without CPU overhead-ideal for noisy industrial sensor environments |
| 4-channel PWM with dead-band | Allows safe complementary switching in half-bridge or full-bridge topologies without external logic or timers |
| Two UARTs with IrDA support | Enables local debug (UART0) and host communication (UART1) while supporting infrared remote diagnostics |
| 20-pin QFN with thermal pad | Minimizes PCB area and thermal resistance-supports ambient operation up to 85°C without heatsink |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Motor Control Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Compact environmental monitoring node measuring temperature, humidity, and supply voltage in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central controller executing sensor polling, ADC conversion, data filtering, and UART-based telemetry upload. Use Value: 8 KB Flash stores calibrated sensor algorithms; 10-bit ADC resolves 0.1°C temperature steps; dual UART enables simultaneous debug and cloud gateway communication. | Use Scenario: Fan or pump speed controller in HVAC systems using hall-effect rotor position feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time PWM generator synchronized to rotor position signals, with over-current fault shutdown. Use Value: 4-channel PWM with programmable dead-band prevents shoot-through in MOSFET half-bridges; 50 MHz core ensures <5 µs loop update for 20 kHz switching frequencies. |
| Smart Lighting Dimmer | Programmable Power Supply Monitor |
Use Scenario: DALI-compliant LED driver with adjustable brightness, color temperature, and thermal derating. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: DALI protocol interpreter and PWM dimming engine, responding to broadcast commands and managing thermal limits. Use Value: UART1 handles DALI physical layer (with external transceiver); internal temperature sensor triggers automatic dimming reduction above 70°C-no external sensor needed. | Use Scenario: Embedded power rail monitor in telecom equipment verifying +12 V, +3.3 V, and -48 V supplies before system boot. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone supervisor IC performing periodic ADC measurements and asserting fault flags via GPIO. Use Value: 8-channel ADC measures multiple rails simultaneously; 2 KB SRAM stores calibration offsets and last-fault logs across power cycles. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM3S101-IQN20-C2 | Same package and pinout; 4 KB Flash, 2 KB SRAM, identical peripheral set except no SSI module | Lacks SSI interface-unsuitable for SPI-based sensors or DACs; limited to UART/I²C-only peripherals | Select when firmware size <4 KB and SPI is unnecessary; lower cost but reduced interface flexibility |
| TM4C123GH6PM | Successor family; 256 KB Flash, 32 KB SRAM, added USB, CAN, and enhanced PWM; 64-pin LQFP package | Requires PCB redesign; supports complex protocols (USB HID, CANopen) and larger firmware stacks | Choose for future-proofing or when adding connectivity beyond UART/SSI; not drop-in compatible |
Compared with LM3S301-IQN20-C2, LM3S101-IQN20-C2 offers identical footprint and timing but reduced memory and no SSI-making it viable only for minimal firmware. TM4C123GH6PM delivers major peripheral and memory upgrades but demands new layout, toolchain migration, and higher BOM cost.
Availability
LM3S301-IQN20-C2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, motor control modules, smart lighting dimmers, and programmable power supply monitors requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for LM3S301-IQN20-C2 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, delivering analog, embedded processing, and wireless technologies since 1930.
The Stellaris LM3S series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded control applications-emphasizing low-power operation, deterministic interrupt response, and integration of essential peripherals in minimal packages.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S301-IQN20-C2?
The LM3S301-IQN20-C2 operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 50 MHz, achieved via its internal PLL driven by an external 4–25 MHz crystal or clock source connected to OSC0/OSC1. This frequency is specified under recommended operating conditions (3.3 V ±10%, TA = –40°C to +85°C) and enables deterministic execution of real-time control tasks with predictable interrupt latency.
Does the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 support USB or CAN interfaces?
No, the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 does not include USB or CAN peripherals. Its communication interfaces are limited to two UARTs (one with IrDA support) and one SSI (SPI-compatible) port. Engineers requiring USB or CAN must select a different Stellaris variant (e.g., LM3S811) or migrate to the TM4C series, as confirmed in the SPMS065I datasheet Sections 1.1 and 1.4.4.
What is the purpose of the exposed thermal pad on the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 QFN package?
The exposed thermal pad on the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 QFN package must be soldered to a PCB copper pour connected to GND. Per TI SPMS065I Section 15, this pad provides primary thermal conduction path to dissipate heat from the die, enabling reliable operation at ambient temperatures up to +85°C without additional heatsinking-critical for enclosed industrial enclosures.
Can the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 execute code directly from RAM?
No, the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 does not support XIP (execute-in-place) from RAM. Code execution is supported only from on-chip Flash memory (8 KB) or via debugger-loaded code in SRAM (2 KB) for development and testing. The memory map in SPMS065I Section 6 confirms Flash is mapped to 0x0000.0000 and SRAM to 0x2000.0000, with no MMU or cache enabling RAM execution in production mode.
Is the LM3S301-IQN20-C2 pin-compatible with other LM3S devices in the same package?
LM3S301-IQN20-C2 is pin-compatible with LM3S101-IQN20-C2 (same 20-pin QFN), sharing identical pin assignments and electrical characteristics. However, it is not pin-compatible with LM3S200-series or higher-pin-count variants-even those using QFN-due to differing peripheral mappings and signal allocations confirmed in TI's Signal Tables (Section 16).
LM3S301-IQN20-C2 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 48-LQFP
- Series:
- Stellaris® ARM® Cortex®-M3S 300
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Not For New Designs
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M3
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 20MHz
- Connectivity:
- Microwire, SPI, SSI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 33
- Program Memory Size:
- 16KB (16K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 2K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 3x10b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
LM3S301-IQN20-C2 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3S301-IQN20-C2 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3S301-IQN20-C2 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 LM3S301-IQN20-C2 reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3S301-IQN20-C2 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LM3S301-IQN20-C2 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LM3S301-IQN20-C2?
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LM3S301-IQN20-C2 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LM3S301-IQN20-C2 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 LM3S301-IQN20-C2?
For technical support, including LM3S301-IQN20-C2 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3S301-IQN20-C2 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3S301-IQN20-C2 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3S301-IQN20-C2 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 LM3S301-IQN20-C2 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3S301-IQN20-C2?
All LM3S301-IQN20-C2 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3S301-IQN20-C2, 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 LM3S301-IQN20-C2 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3S301-IQN20-C2:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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