Texas Instruments LM3S6965-EQC50-A2

Overview

LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, integrated Ethernet MAC, dual UARTs, I²C, SSI, ADC (10-bit, 8-channel), and hibernation module. It operates at 50 MHz and supports industrial motor control and networked embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 datasheet, LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 pinout, LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 application, or LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 equivalent, key selection criteria include Ethernet MAC integration, hibernation power management, 50 MHz Cortex-M3 performance, and industrial-grade temperature range (–40°C to +105°C).

Technical Context

The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 implements a full-featured ARM Cortex-M3 core with NVIC, SysTick, MPU, and debug support via JTAG/SWD. It integrates a hardware-accelerated Ethernet MAC compliant with IEEE 802.3, enabling standalone TCP/IP stack deployment without external PHY interface logic.

Its analog subsystem includes an 8-channel, 10-bit ADC with hardware averaging and internal temperature sensor; digital peripherals include two UARTs (one with IrDA/SIR), two SSI modules, and an I²C master/slave controller - all clocked from a configurable PLL-driven system clock up to 50 MHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 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 SPMS144I datasheet Rev I (July 2014), supporting full peripheral multiplexing and dedicated JTAG/SWD debug pins.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM3S8962-IQC50-A2, the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 trades CAN for Ethernet MAC - making it optimal for wired IP-connected devices. Against TM4C123GH6PM, it offers proven industrial reliability at lower cost but lacks USB and newer peripheral enhancements.

Availability

LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, networked sensor gateways, remote telemetry nodes, and PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 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 industrial and automotive qualification expertise.

The Stellaris LM3S series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded applications requiring integrated connectivity (Ethernet, CAN, USB), analog sensing, and deterministic control - targeting factory automation, building systems, and energy infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2?

The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 50 MHz, achieved via its internal PLL driven from the main oscillator or external crystal. This speed is fully supported across all peripherals including Ethernet MAC, ADC, and timers, and is validated over the full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +105°C). The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 maintains timing compliance without derating under worst-case voltage and temperature conditions.

Does the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 include an integrated Ethernet PHY?

No, the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 integrates only the Ethernet MAC layer compliant with IEEE 802.3. It requires an external PHY chip (e.g., TI DP83848 or Microchip LAN8720) connected via RMII or MII interface. The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 provides all necessary MAC control signals, clock outputs, and data lanes - but does not include physical-layer transceivers, magnetics, or line drivers. This separation allows design flexibility and cost optimization based on speed and isolation requirements.

What debug interfaces does the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 support?

The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 supports both JTAG and Serial Wire Debug (SWD) interfaces using dedicated pins (TCK, TMS, TDO, TDI, nTRST, SWDIO, SWCLK). Full debug functionality - including halt/resume, register inspection, memory read/write, and flash programming - is available through standard tools like TI Code Composer Studio and ARM-compatible debug probes. The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 does not require external debug circuitry beyond standard level-shifting for target voltage alignment.

Is the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 still in production or subject to obsolescence?

The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 is listed by Texas Instruments as "Not Recommended for New Designs" (NRND) and has entered obsolescence planning, though active distribution channels maintain limited inventory. Aetrix Electronics supports continued supply through last-time buys, cross-qualified alternatives, and lifecycle management services. For new designs, TI recommends migration to the TM4C123x family; however, the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 remains viable for legacy program sustainment and repair scenarios where form-fit-function compatibility is critical.

What power modes does the LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 support for low-energy operation?

The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 supports Sleep, Deep-Sleep, and Hibernation modes. Hibernation achieves sub-1 µA typical current draw with RTC running, battery-backed memory retention, and wake-on-RTC-alarm or external pin event. Unlike Sleep or Deep-Sleep, Hibernation powers down the entire system except the hibernate module - verified in TI SPMS144I datasheet Section 6. Power Control. The LM3S6965-EQC50-A2 exits Hibernation in < 100 µs, preserving deterministic real-time behavior.