Texas Instruments LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T
- Part No.:
- LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 100-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 256KB FLASH 100LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T from Texas Instruments is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, integrated CAN 2.0B controller, Ethernet MAC, and hibernation module. It operates at 50 MHz, supports -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range, and targets embedded control in factory automation and motor drives.
For engineers reviewing the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T datasheet, LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T pinout, LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T application, or LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated Ethernet MAC (no external PHY required), dual CAN interfaces, hibernation current of 1.7 µA, and support for deterministic real-time interrupt handling via NVIC.
Technical Context
The LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T implements the ARM Cortex-M3 core with Thumb-2 instruction set, 3-stage pipeline, and hardware divide/MAC units. It integrates a full-featured Ethernet MAC supporting 10/100 Mbps IEEE 802.3, two independent CAN 2.0B controllers with 32 message objects each, and a hibernation module with RTC, battery-backed RAM, and wake-on-RTC/CAN/external-pin capability.
System-level peripherals include 8× general-purpose timers (with PWM, capture, RTC modes), 3× UARTs (one with IrDA/SIR), 2× SSI, 2× I²C, and GPIOs with programmable slew rate and drive strength. Clock management supports multiple internal/external sources, including PLL-based 50 MHz system clock derived from 1–25 MHz crystal or oscillator input.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M3, 32-bit, 50 MHz max operation - enables deterministic real-time execution with <12-cycle interrupt latency. |
| Memory | 256 KB on-chip flash + 64 KB SRAM - sufficient for standalone Ethernet/CAN protocol stacks without external memory. |
| Connectivity | Integrated 10/100 Ethernet MAC + dual CAN 2.0B controllers - eliminates need for external MAC/PHY or CAN transceivers in networked industrial nodes. |
| Hibernation | 1.7 µA hibernate current with RTC and 2 KB battery-backed RAM - enables long-term battery operation in remote sensor gateways. |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C industrial grade - qualified for deployment in uncontrolled factory or outdoor enclosures. |
| Package | 100-pin LQFP (14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) - standard surface-mount footprint compatible with automated PCB assembly. |
Pinout & Package
LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T is housed in a 100-pin LQFP package (JEDEC MO-137AA). Pin functions are defined per the official TI LM3S8970 datasheet revision SPMS175I (July 2014), with dedicated pins for Ethernet MII signals (TXD[3:0], RXD[3:0], TXEN, RXER, CRS, COL), dual CANH/CANL pairs (CAN0 and CAN1), and hibernation control (HIBRST, HIBREQ).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PA0–PA7 | GPIO Port A | Configurable digital I/O with edge-triggered interrupts; PA0–PA3 support analog comparator inputs. |
| PD0–PD7 | GPIO Port D | Supports UART0/SSI0/I²C0 alternate functions; PD0/PD1 = UART0 Rx/Tx; PD2/PD3 = SSI0 Clk/FO. |
| PF0–PF4 | GPIO Port F | Includes NMI, user LED, and hibernation wake-up inputs (PF0 = HIBWAKE); PF4 = CAN0RX. |
| PH0–PH7 | Ethernet MII | PH0–PH3 = TXD[0:3], PH4 = TXEN, PH5 = TXCLK, PH6 = RXD[0:3] (shared), PH7 = RXDV. |
| PJ0–PJ1 | CAN0 Interface | PJ0 = CAN0RX, PJ1 = CAN0TX - dedicated differential CAN bus interface with internal pull-ups. |
| PK0–PK1 | CAN1 Interface | PK0 = CAN1RX, PK1 = CAN1TX - second independent CAN channel for redundant or multi-bus systems. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated Ethernet MAC | IEEE 802.3-compliant 10/100 Mbps MAC with MII interface - reduces BOM cost and board space vs. discrete MAC+PHY solutions. |
| Dual CAN 2.0B Controllers | Two independent CAN modules, each with 32 message objects and programmable acceptance filtering - supports multi-network automotive or industrial diagnostics. |
| Hibernation Module | Ultra-low-power state with RTC, 2 KB battery-backed RAM, and wake-on-CAN/RTC/external-pin - enables always-on connectivity with minimal energy drain. |
| NVIC Interrupt Controller | 8-bit priority grouping, up to 64 interrupt lines with tail-chaining and late-arrival support - ensures sub-12-cycle interrupt response for time-critical control loops. |
| Peripheral Integration | 8× GPTM, 3× UART, 2× SSI, 2× I²C, analog comparators, and PWM-capable timers - eliminates need for external timing or interface ICs in motion control applications. |
Applications
| Industrial Ethernet Gateway | Automotive Diagnostic Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Aggregating Modbus RTU field devices and bridging to EtherNet/IP or PROFINET networks via custom protocol translation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central protocol translator and real-time scheduler running dual-stack firmware with Ethernet MAC and CAN0/CAN1 simultaneously active. Use Value: On-chip Ethernet MAC and dual CAN eliminate external interface ICs; hibernation mode enables low-power standby during network idle periods. | Use Scenario: In-vehicle OBD-II diagnostic tool connecting to engine ECU (via CAN0) and technician laptop (via USB-to-UART bridge on UART1). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: CAN protocol handler and command interpreter with deterministic response to UDS service requests (e.g., ReadDataByIdentifier). Use Value: Dual CAN ports allow concurrent access to powertrain and body networks; 50 MHz Cortex-M3 ensures <50 ms latency for critical diagnostic responses. |
| Factory Automation PLC I/O Module | Remote Sensor Hub with Wake-on-Event |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted I/O expansion unit with 16 digital inputs, 8 relay outputs, and EtherNet/IP adapter for integration into Rockwell ControlLogix systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time I/O controller executing cyclic I/O scans synchronized to EtherNet/IP implicit messaging intervals (e.g., 1–10 ms). Use Value: Integrated Ethernet MAC meets CIP sync requirements; GPIOs support programmable slew rate for noise immunity in electrically noisy plant floors. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental monitor deployed in utility substations, sampling temperature/humidity every 15 minutes and transmitting via CAN bus only on threshold breach. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power sensor coordinator entering hibernation between samples, waking on RTC alarm or CAN traffic to transmit data. Use Value: 1.7 µA hibernate current extends 2× AA battery life beyond 5 years; wake-on-CAN allows immediate response to upstream command packets. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM3S9B92-IQC50-A2T | Same Cortex-M3 core, 512 KB flash, 96 KB SRAM, adds USB 2.0 OTG controller and LCD controller; no Ethernet MAC. | Better suited for human-interface devices (HID) or USB-connected instrumentation; lacks native Ethernet for industrial networking. | Select when USB device/host capability is primary and Ethernet is unnecessary. |
| TM4C123GH6PM | Successor family with same pinout, 80 MHz CPU, 256 KB flash, 32 KB SRAM, integrated Ethernet PHY option (on select variants), enhanced CAN FD support. | Offers higher performance and extended lifecycle; requires minor firmware adaptation due to peripheral register map changes. | Select for new designs requiring longer product support, CAN FD, or integrated PHY - not drop-in compatible. |
Compared with LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T, LM3S9B92-IQC50-A2T trades Ethernet for USB/LCD, while TM4C123GH6PM provides higher clock speed and modernized peripherals but requires firmware migration - making LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T optimal for legacy-stable Ethernet/CAN gateway designs.
Availability
LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial Ethernet gateways, automotive diagnostic tools, factory automation I/O modules, and remote sensor hubs requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for LM3S8970-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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog, embedded processing, and wireless technologies for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The Stellaris LM3S series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded control applications requiring integrated communication peripherals - especially where Ethernet, CAN, and ultra-low-power hibernation coexist in a single chip.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T?
The LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 50 MHz, achieved using an internal PLL that multiplies a 1–25 MHz crystal or external clock source. This frequency is specified across the full -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range and 3.0–3.6 V supply voltage, ensuring deterministic real-time performance in demanding control environments.
Does the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T include an integrated Ethernet PHY?
No, the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T integrates only the Ethernet MAC layer (IEEE 802.3 compliant), not the physical layer (PHY). An external 10/100 Ethernet PHY IC (e.g., DP83848) must be used with MII interface signals routed from PH0–PH7. The MAC supports full-duplex operation, flow control, and checksum offload for TCP/UDP/IP headers.
How many CAN interfaces does the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T support?
The LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T supports two independent CAN 2.0B controllers: CAN0 and CAN1. Each has 32 message objects, programmable acceptance filtering, and dedicated pins (PJ0/PJ1 for CAN0, PK0/PK1 for CAN1). Both controllers operate concurrently and can be configured for different bit rates or network roles (e.g., diagnostics vs. actuator control).
What is the hibernation current consumption of the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T?
The LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T achieves a hibernation current of 1.7 µA (typical) at 3.3 V and 25°C, with RTC running and 2 KB of SRAM retained. This value is measured with the hibernation module enabled, main oscillators disabled, and all other peripherals powered down - enabling multi-year battery life in always-on monitoring applications.
Is the LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T pin-compatible with newer TM4C series microcontrollers?
The LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T shares the same 100-pin LQFP package footprint and basic signal mapping with certain TM4C123x devices (e.g., TM4C123GH6PM), but it is not pin-to-pin compatible due to differences in peripheral assignments (e.g., Ethernet MII pins occupy different port locations) and voltage tolerance. Migration requires PCB layout revision and firmware adaptation.
LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 100-LQFP
- Series:
- Stellaris® ARM® Cortex®-M3S 8000
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M3
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, Ethernet, I2C, IrDA, Microwire, SPI, SSI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 46
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 64K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 2.25V ~ 2.75V
- Data Converters:
- -
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T 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 LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T transactions.
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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 LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T?
For technical support, including LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T 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 LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T?
All LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T, 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 LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3S8970-IQC50-A2T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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