STMicroelectronics ST7580

Overview

ST7580 from STMicroelectronics is a fully integrated narrow-band power line networking system-on-chip combining a dual-core PHY processor and protocol controller with an analog front-end, 1 A RMS power amplifier, AES-128 security engine, and UART host interface. It supports B-FSK (up to 9.6 kbps), B/Q/8-PSK (up to 28.8 kbps), dual-channel operation, convolutional coding, and zero-crossing detection for EN50065/FCC/ARIB-compliant smart metering and street lighting control.

For engineers reviewing the ST7580 datasheet, ST7580 pinout, ST7580 application, or ST7580 equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, confirmed alternative parts with functional differences, and supply support for production deployment in utility infrastructure and industrial IoT networks.

Technical Context

The ST7580 implements a dual-digital-core architecture: a dedicated PHY processor handles real-time modulation/demodulation (B-FSK, B/Q/8-PSK), SNR estimation, and PNA-mode impulsive noise rejection, while a separate protocol controller manages framing, error detection, sniffer mode, and AES-128 encryption/decryption. Both cores operate on independent clock domains (56 MHz PHY, 28 MHz protocol).

Its analog front-end integrates a programmable gain amplifier (–18 dB to +30 dB) with automatic gain control, 12-bit ADC/DAC, and a fully integrated single-ended Class-AB power amplifier delivering up to 1 A RMS into 50 Ω with <0.15% THD and –63 dBc HD3 at 14 V_p-p, all controllable via digital registers and current-sense feedback through the CL pin.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ST7580 is housed in a VFQFPN48 (7 × 7 × 1.0 mm) package with exposed thermal pad electrically connected to VSSA and recommended for soldering to a copper ground plane for thermal and electrical performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar narrow-band power line communication system-on-chip applications.

Compared with MAX2992 and TI PLC100, the ST7580 uniquely integrates PSK modulation, on-chip AES-128, zero-crossing detection, and 1 A RMS line driving - enabling single-chip, standards-compliant, secure PLC nodes without external timing or power components.

Availability

ST7580 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, street lighting control, and industrial building automation requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles and regulatory renewals.

Supply support for ST7580 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 ICs, sensors, and analog chips for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The ST7580 belongs to ST's Power Line Communication (PLC) SoC product line, engineered specifically for robust, low-cost, standards-compliant narrow-band communication over AC power lines in utility and smart infrastructure applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum RMS output current the ST7580 power amplifier can deliver?

The ST7580 power amplifier delivers up to 1 A RMS output current into a 50 Ω load at 14 V_p-p, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table (I(PA_OUT) MAX). This rating is sustained under continuous transmission at 105 °C ambient and is enforced by internal current sensing via the CL pin to prevent thermal overload or distortion.

Does the ST7580 support both FSK and PSK modulation simultaneously?

No - the ST7580 supports either FSK or PSK modulation per transmission session, selected via register configuration. However, it does support dual-channel operation, allowing two independent carrier frequencies to be used concurrently, each configurable for FSK or PSK, enabling frequency diversity or parallel data streams within the same device.

How is zero-crossing detection implemented, and what is its accuracy?

The ST7580 features a dedicated ZC_IN analog input with internal comparators having ±30 mV threshold and 70 mV hysteresis. When driven by the AC mains waveform, it generates a clean digital edge aligned to voltage zero crossings. Accuracy is maintained across –40 °C to +105 °C, enabling precise synchronization of PLC frame transmission to minimize conducted emissions per EN50065.

Can the ST7580 operate with an external clock instead of a crystal oscillator?

Yes - the ST7580 accepts an external clock signal (1.8–5.5 V_p-p) on the XIN pin, with XOUT left floating. The internal PLL locks to the external source, generating required clocks for AFE (8 MHz), protocol core (28 MHz), and PHY processor (56 MHz). Crystal operation (8 MHz ±150 ppm) remains the default for highest stability in metering applications.