STMicroelectronics STEVAL-IHP007V1

Overview

STEVAL-IHP007V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board implementing a narrow-band power line communication (PLC) module for street lighting control networks operating in CENELEC A/B/D bands. It integrates the ST7580 PSK/FSK PLC modem (up to 28.8 kbps), STM32F103CBT7 ARM Cortex-M3 MCU (48-pin LQFP), and analog front-end components including STPS1L30 Schottky rectifier, STTH1L06A ultrafast rectifier, and SM6T15CA/SMAJ5.0CA TVS diodes for surge protection.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-IHP007V1 datasheet, STEVAL-IHP007V1 pinout, STEVAL-IHP007V1 application, or STEVAL-IHP007V1 equivalent, this board serves as a functional slave node requiring coordination with EVALKITST7580-1 master via UART commands - critical for validating PLC firmware stack, zero-crossing synchronization, and serial interface interoperability in outdoor lighting infrastructure.

Technical Context

The board implements a complete PLC slave node architecture centered on the ST7580 system-on-chip, which handles physical layer modulation (PSK/FSK), MAC-layer framing, and CENELEC-compliant spectral shaping. Its analog coupling section includes ZC_IN input for zero-crossing detection, PA_IN+/PA_IN− differential receive path, and PA_OUT single-ended transmit output with current-limiting and filtering.

Control and host interfacing are managed by the STM32F103CBT7 MCU, exposing UART (PLC_RXD/PLC_TXD), JTAG/SWD debug pins, GPIOs (PLM_GPIO0–7), and USB DM/DP. The embedded firmware supports command-driven operation via UART, enabling remote configuration of PLC parameters, network joining, and status reporting without standalone host processor dependency.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-IHP007V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for street lighting network validation, smart grid node prototyping, and CENELEC-compliant PLC interoperability testing requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for STEVAL-IHP007V1 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, analog ICs, power devices, and sensors for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

This board belongs to ST's Intelligent Lighting Hardware Platform (IHP) product line, engineered specifically to accelerate development of interoperable, standards-compliant PLC-based street lighting control systems with integrated zero-crossing timing and robust line-coupling circuitry.

FAQ

Is STEVAL-IHP007V1 a standalone PLC solution?

No. STEVAL-IHP007V1 functions only as a slave node and requires connection to the EVALKITST7580-1 master board via UART to execute network initialization, parameter configuration, and data exchange. It lacks autonomous network management firmware and cannot operate independently in a PLC network.

What is the role of the STM32F103CBT7 on this board?

The STM32F103CBT7 serves as the host controller managing the ST7580 modem via UART, handling firmware updates, processing sensor inputs (e.g., ZC_IN), driving LEDs for status indication, and providing SWD/JTAG debug access. Its GPIOs expose PLM_GPIO0–7 for external peripheral control and diagnostics.

Can the ST7580 modem be replaced with another PLC IC?

No - the ST7580 is soldered and electrically integrated into the analog front-end (ZC_IN, PA_IN+/−, PA_OUT). Its pinout, power sequencing, and internal PLL configuration are tightly coupled to the board layout and firmware. Replacement would require full redesign of the signal chain and firmware stack.

Does STEVAL-IHP007V1 support G3-PLC or PRIME protocol stacks?

No. The board is designed exclusively for ST's proprietary ST7580-based narrow-band PLC implementation compliant with CENELEC A/B/D bands. It does not include G3-PLC or PRIME protocol firmware, nor does it support their PHY/MAC layer requirements or certification test suites.