Texas Instruments LM3S316-IQN25-C2

Overview

LM3S316-IQN25-C2 from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 25 MHz operation, 32 KB flash, 8 KB SRAM, and integrated ADC, UART, I²C, SSI, PWM, and analog comparator. It targets motor control and industrial sensing applications requiring real-time deterministic response and mixed-signal integration.

For engineers reviewing the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 datasheet, LM3S316-IQN25-C2 pinout, LM3S316-IQN25-C2 application, or LM3S316-IQN25-C2 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 25 MHz max CPU frequency, QFP-48 package, 10-bit 8-channel ADC, dual UARTs, and support for motor control peripherals including PWM with dead-band generation and fault protection.

Technical Context

The LM3S316-IQN25-C2 implements the ARM Cortex-M3 core with Thumb-2 instruction set, NVIC-based interrupt handling, and SysTick timer. It integrates a 10-bit 8-channel ADC with hardware averaging and temperature sensor, plus two UARTs supporting FIFO and modem control signals.

Its peripheral set includes one SSI (SPI-compatible), one I²C master/slave interface, six PWM generator blocks with independent dead-band control, and an analog comparator with internal reference. Clocking is managed via PLL-based system clock derived from internal oscillator or external crystal up to 25 MHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM3S316-IQN25-C2 is housed in a 48-pin LQFP (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per TI SPMS075I datasheet Section 16 (Pin Diagram) and Section 17 (Signal Tables).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TM4C123GH6PM and STM32F030F4P6, the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 offers optimal balance of motor control features (dead-band PWM, analog comparator, temperature sensor) and compact footprint at 25 MHz - ideal for space-constrained, thermally sensitive embedded drives without USB or Ethernet needs.

Availability

LM3S316-IQN25-C2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart sensor nodes, PLC I/O modules, and embedded HMI applications requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for LM3S316-IQN25-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 connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The Stellaris LM3S series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded applications requiring integrated analog peripherals, motor control logic, and deterministic ARM Cortex-M3 performance - targeting industrial automation and appliance control.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S316-IQN25-C2?

The LM3S316-IQN25-C2 operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 25 MHz. This rating is specified under the IQN25 speed grade and applies across the full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). The device achieves this using either its internal 6 MHz RC oscillator with PLL multiplication or an external crystal source. The LM3S316-IQN25-C2 does not support frequencies above 25 MHz - exceeding this limit violates the production data sheet specifications and may cause timing violations or functional failure.

Does the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 include an internal temperature sensor?

Yes, the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 integrates a factory-calibrated on-die temperature sensor accessible via ADC channel 6 (ADC0CH6). Its output is ratiometric to VDDA and provides readings accurate to ±3°C over the industrial temperature range. This sensor is used internally by the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 for thermal monitoring and can be read in firmware to implement thermal derating or overtemperature shutdown logic without external components.

What package type is used for the LM3S316-IQN25-C2?

The LM3S316-IQN25-C2 is packaged in a 48-pin LQFP (Leadless Quad Flat Package) measuring 7 mm × 7 mm with 0.5 mm pin pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This package is RoHS-compliant and optimized for reflow soldering. Pin assignments match the TI SPMS075I datasheet Figure 16-1 (Pin Diagram) and Table 17-1 (Signals by Pin Number), confirming compatibility with standard 48-pin QFP footprints.

Can the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 support PWM-driven audio tone generation?

Yes, the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 can generate audible tones using its six PWM generators. By configuring a PWM output with variable duty cycle and modulating its period in the 1–5 kHz range, simple beep or alert tones can be produced directly through a piezo transducer or small speaker. The LM3S316-IQN25-C2's PWM modules support center-aligned mode and programmable update triggers, enabling clean tone transitions without audible clicks during runtime changes.

Is the LM3S316-IQN25-C2 supported by modern development tools?

The LM3S316-IQN25-C2 is supported by legacy TI tools including Code Composer Studio v5.x and StellarisWare Peripheral Driver Library. While newer TivaWare libraries supersede StellarisWare, TI maintains backward compatibility for LM3S devices in CCS v6.2 and earlier. The LM3S316-IQN25-C2 remains fully debuggable via JTAG using XDS100v2 or compatible emulators, and its register map and peripheral behavior are documented in the SPMS075I datasheet without ambiguity.