STMicroelectronics ST72F324BK4T6

Overview

ST72F324BK4T6 from STMicroelectronics is an automotive-grade 8-bit microcontroller featuring 16 Kbyte HDFlash, 512 bytes RAM, 10-bit ADC with 12 input channels, dual 16-bit timers (Timer A and Timer B), SPI and SCI serial interfaces, and operation across 3.8–5.5 V at -40°C to +125°C. It integrates PLL-based clock multiplication, programmable LVD/AVD, four power-saving modes, and 24 multifunctional I/O lines - deployed in engine control units and body electronics modules.

For engineers reviewing the ST72F324BK4T6 datasheet, ST72F324BK4T6 pinout, ST72F324BK4T6 application, or ST72F324BK4T6 equivalent, key selection considerations include Flash endurance (100 write cycles), real-time base capability via MCC/RTC, high-sink I/O (12 lines), watchdog timer configurability, and automotive temperature compliance per AEC-Q100 stress test guidelines.

Technical Context

This MCU implements a Harvard architecture with 63 basic instructions and 17 addressing modes, including 8×8 unsigned multiply. Its nested interrupt controller supports 10 vectors plus TRAP and RESET, with up to 9 external interrupt lines mapped across 4 vectors.

The clock system combines crystal/ceramic resonator support, internal RC oscillator, and external clock input, all managed by a PLL for 2× frequency multiplication. Power management includes Slow, Wait, Active Halt, and Halt modes - each validated for automotive low-power operation with AVD-triggered interrupts.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LQFP44 package (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.8 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad; RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit automotive microcontroller applications.

Compared with ST72F324BJ4T6, the ST72F324BK4T6 offers identical core peripherals but in a space-constrained LQFP32 package - ideal for compact ECUs. Versus ST7FLITE2KF2, it delivers full automotive temperature compliance, PLL-based clock scaling, and enhanced ADC/timer capabilities required for safety-critical subsystems.

Availability

ST72F324BK4T6 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, body control modules, instrument clusters, and HVAC systems requiring stable component supply across automotive production lifecycles.

Supply support for ST72F324BK4T6 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, power devices, sensors, and automotive ICs since 1987.

The ST7 family targets cost-effective, robust 8-bit control in harsh environments - specifically engineered for automotive body electronics, powertrain sub-systems, and industrial automation where reliability and AEC-Q100 qualification are mandatory.

FAQ

Does ST72F324BK4T6 support in-circuit programming (ICP)?

Yes, ST72F324BK4T6 supports ICP via the ICC interface using the dedicated ICCSEL/VPP pin. This enables factory programming and rework without removing the device from the PCB. The interface operates at standard VDD levels and requires no high-voltage programming supply - simplifying test fixture design and reducing production overhead.

What is the maximum ADC sampling rate achievable?

The 10-bit ADC achieves up to 100 kSPS under typical conditions (VDD = 5 V, f_CLK = 8 MHz). Conversion time is 13.5 µs per sample, including acquisition and conversion phases. Performance remains stable across the full -40°C to +125°C range, with integral nonlinearity (INL) specified at ±1 LSB max.

Can the watchdog timer be disabled after startup?

No - the hardware watchdog cannot be fully disabled once enabled; however, it can be configured in windowed mode or set to longest timeout (2.1 s) via WDGCR register. A software-initiated reset is required to exit watchdog-locked state, ensuring fail-safe behavior mandated for automotive use.

Is the internal RC oscillator accurate enough for SCI communication?

The internal RC oscillator has ±2% variation over temperature and voltage, insufficient for reliable SCI baud rate generation above 9600 bps. For robust UART operation, STMicroelectronics recommends using the crystal oscillator or PLL-derived clock source - both deliver <±0.5% timing accuracy required for error-free 115.2 kbps SCI links.