STMicroelectronics ST72F324K6T6

Overview

ST72F324K6T6 from STMicroelectronics is an 8-bit Flash microcontroller with 16KB program memory, 512 bytes RAM (256-byte stack), 10-bit ADC (12 input channels), dual 16-bit timers (Timer A and Timer B), SPI and SCI serial interfaces, and PLL-based clock multiplication. It operates from 3.8V to 5.5V across –40°C to +125°C and targets industrial motor control and sensor interface applications requiring robust I/O and in-application programming.

For engineers reviewing the ST72F324K6T6 datasheet, ST72F324K6T6 pinout, ST72F324K6T6 application, or ST72F324K6T6 equivalent, this MCU delivers deterministic real-time control with nested interrupts, four power-saving modes (Halt, Active-Halt, Wait, Slow), programmable low-voltage detection, and hardware watchdog - all in a TQFP44 package suitable for space-constrained embedded designs.

Technical Context

The ST72F324K6T6 implements the ST7 core with 63 basic instructions and 17 addressing modes, including 8×8 unsigned multiply. Its clock system integrates crystal/RC oscillators, a PLL for 2× frequency multiplication, and dual voltage detectors (LVD with programmable reset thresholds and AVD with interrupt capability).

Peripheral integration includes a Main Clock Controller with RTC/beeper, configurable watchdog timer, two independent 16-bit timers supporting PWM, input capture, and output compare, plus synchronous SPI and asynchronous SCI interfaces - all accessible via up to 32 multifunctional I/O lines with high-sink capability (12 pins @ 20 mA).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TQFP44 (10 × 10 mm, 0.8 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad - optimized for thermal dissipation in motor drive and power supply control applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ST72F324K6T6, ST72F324B6T6 offers drop-in reliability upgrades for legacy designs, while STM8S105K4T6 provides modern architecture benefits at the cost of software rework and package change - both require validation against timing-critical peripheral use cases.

Availability

ST72F324K6T6 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart sensor nodes, automotive body electronics, and PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for ST72F324K6T6 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, specializing in microcontrollers, power management, and automotive ICs with vertical manufacturing and broad industrial qualification.

The ST7 family was designed for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded control in harsh environments - emphasizing robust I/O, low-power operation, and in-system programmability for appliance, motor, and sensor applications.

FAQ

Is ST72F324K6T6 still recommended for new designs?

No - STMicroelectronics explicitly marks ST72F324Kx as "Not for New Design" in the April 2008 datasheet revision. The ST72F324Bx series is the designated replacement, offering improved flash endurance, ESD performance, and debug features while maintaining pin and code compatibility. Aetrix recommends ST72F324B6T6 for all new projects.

What are the supported clock sources and maximum operating frequency?

The ST72F324K6T6 supports three clock sources: external crystal/ceramic resonator (1–8 MHz), internal RC oscillator (≈8 MHz, ±20% tolerance), and external clock input. With its integrated PLL, it achieves a maximum CPU frequency of 8 MHz (2× multiplication of 4 MHz input). System timing is further managed via programmable prescalers in the Main Clock Controller.

Does ST72F324K6T6 support hardware debugging or in-circuit programming?

Yes - it supports In-Circuit Programming (ICP) via the ICC interface using the dedicated ICCSEL/VPP pin, and In-Application Programming (IAP) through SCI or SPI using user firmware. While it lacks SWIM or JTAG, ST-provided tools like STVP and compatible third-party programmers enable full flash read/write/erase and verification without removing the device from the board.

How many ADC channels can be used simultaneously, and what is the conversion time?

The 10-bit ADC supports up to 12 input channels (AD0–AD11), but only one conversion occurs at a time. Conversion time is 13 µs per sample (including acquisition) when using the internal 8 MHz clock source and default prescaler settings. Channel sequencing is controlled via software or triggered by timer events, enabling synchronized sampling across multiple sensors.