STMicroelectronics STM32L152VCH6

Overview

STM32L152VCH6 from STMicroelectronics is an ultra-low-power 32-bit ARM® Cortex®-M3 microcontroller featuring 256 KB Flash, 32 KB SRAM, 8 KB EEPROM with ECC, integrated LCD controller (8×40 segments), and USB 2.0 interface. It operates from 1.65 V to 3.6 V across –40 °C to +105 °C and delivers 1.25 DMIPS/MHz performance. It targets battery-powered portable instrumentation, smart meters, and wearable health monitors requiring long runtime and on-chip analog integration.

For engineers reviewing the STM32L152VCH6 datasheet, STM32L152VCH6 pinout, STM32L152VCH6 application, or STM32L152VCH6 equivalent, key selection criteria include standby current (0.29 µA), 12-bit ADC (1 Msps, 25 channels), dual 12-bit DACs, ultra-low-power comparators with wake-up capability, and LCD driver support - all in a 100-pin LQFP package.

Technical Context

The STM32L152VCH6 implements dynamic voltage scaling and multiple low-power modes (Stop, Standby, Low-power Run) with sub-µA retention. Its Cortex-M3 core runs up to 32 MHz using internal 16 MHz RC (±1%) or external crystal (1–24 MHz), supported by a dedicated 48 MHz PLL for USB timing.

Analog subsystem includes two operational amplifiers, two ultra-low-power comparators (window mode + wake-up), a 12-bit ADC with hardware oversampling, and two buffered 12-bit DACs - all functional down to 1.8 V supply. The LCD controller supports contrast adjustment, blinking, and integrated step-up converter.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LQFP100 (14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad. 100-pin quad flat layout optimized for PCB routing density and thermal dissipation in compact portable designs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-low-power MCU applications.

Compared with STM32L152VCH6, the STM32L432KCU6 trades EEPROM and LCD for DSP capability and deeper sleep, while the EFM32PG12B500F1024GL125 offers larger memory and crypto acceleration at the cost of USB/LCD integration - making STM32L152VCH6 optimal for display-equipped, battery-constrained metering.

Availability

STM32L152VCH6 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, portable medical devices, industrial sensor nodes, and asset tracking beacons requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for STM32L152VCH6 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 products for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STM32L15x series is part of ST's ultra-low-power MCU portfolio, engineered specifically for battery-operated applications demanding long service life, integrated analog peripherals, and robust environmental operation - not just low active power.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency and how is it achieved?

The STM32L152VCH6 achieves a maximum CPU frequency of 32 MHz using its internal 16 MHz high-speed RC oscillator (trimmed to ±1%) or an external crystal up to 24 MHz. A programmable PLL multiplies the clock source to generate the required 32 MHz system clock. This frequency is fully supported across the entire 1.65–3.6 V supply range and –40 °C to +105 °C temperature range, with Dhrystone 2.1 benchmark performance of 1.25 DMIPS/MHz.

Does the device support USB without external components?

Yes - the STM32L152VCH6 integrates a full-speed USB 2.0 transceiver with an internal 1.5 kΩ pull-up resistor on the USB_DP line. No external USB termination resistors or PHY are required. It uses an internal 48 MHz PLL fed by the HSE or MSI oscillator to meet USB timing requirements, enabling plug-and-play connectivity with standard USB hosts when configured in device mode.

How does the LCD controller reduce system-level complexity?

The integrated LCD controller supports up to 8×40 segments with built-in contrast adjustment, blinking control, and a step-up converter that generates VLCD from VDD. This eliminates the need for external LCD bias generators, discrete charge pumps, or external contrast potentiometers. All timing, multiplexing, and voltage regulation are handled internally, reducing bill-of-materials and PCB footprint in portable display applications.

What are the key differences between STM32L151 and STM32L152 variants?

The STM32L152VCH6 includes features absent in the L151 series: a second 12-bit DAC channel, two operational amplifiers, a second ultra-low-power comparator, and enhanced LCD driver capabilities (including step-up converter). These additions enable more sophisticated analog signal processing and richer display functionality - making the L152 variant suitable for applications requiring dual DAC-based calibration, op-amp-based sensor conditioning, or advanced LCD interfaces.