STMicroelectronics STM32L162RCT6

Overview

STM32L162RCT6 from STMicroelectronics is an ultra-low-power 32-bit Arm® Cortex®-M3 microcontroller featuring 256 KB Flash, 32 KB SRAM, 8 KB ECC-protected EEPROM, integrated LCD controller (up to 8×40 segments), USB 2.0 interface, 12-bit ADC (1 Msps, 25 channels), and dual 12-bit DACs - deployed in battery-powered medical sensors, portable industrial meters, and smart utility meters requiring extended runtime and on-chip analog integration.

For engineers reviewing the STM32L162RCT6 datasheet, STM32L162RCT6 pinout, STM32L162RCT6 application, or STM32L162RCT6 equivalent, key selection criteria include standby current (0.29 µA), AES-128 hardware acceleration, LCD driver with on-board step-up converter, and 70 I/Os with 5V tolerance - all within LQFP64 package constraints.

Technical Context

The STM32L162RCT6 implements dynamic voltage scaling and multiple low-power modes (Stop, Standby, Low-power Run) with sub-µA retention states and 8 µs wakeup latency. Its Cortex-M3 core operates up to 32 MHz with 1.25 DMIPS/MHz performance and includes a memory protection unit (MPU) for secure task isolation.

Analog subsystem integration includes two operational amplifiers, two ultra-low-power comparators with window mode and wake-up capability, temperature sensor, VREFINT reference, and dedicated LCD power rail (VLCD) with internal step-up converter - enabling direct drive of segmented LCDs without external components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LQFP64 (10 × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad; 64-pin quad flat layout optimized for PCB routing density and thermal dissipation in space-constrained applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STM32L162RCT6, the STM32L432KCU6 offers better computational efficiency and lower standby draw but sacrifices LCD/EPPROM integration; the EFM32PG12B500F1024GL125 provides larger memory headroom but lacks USB and display peripherals - making STM32L162RCT6 optimal for cost-sensitive, display-centric ultra-low-power designs.

Availability

STM32L162RCT6 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, smart utility meters, and industrial handheld testers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and full production traceability.

Supply support for STM32L162RCT6 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 management ICs, sensors, and analog products for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STM32L1 series targets ultra-low-power embedded applications demanding extended battery life, integrated analog peripherals, and secure firmware execution - with the L162 variant emphasizing LCD support and EEPROM reliability for metering and HMI devices.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency and associated power consumption in Run mode?

The STM32L162RCT6 operates up to 32 MHz with 185 µA/MHz typical current draw in Run mode when executing code from Flash. At 32 MHz, total active current is approximately 5.9 mA (185 µA × 32), verified in DS8928 Rev 12 Table 18 under VDD = 3.3 V, TA = 25°C conditions.

Does the device support hardware-accelerated cryptographic operations beyond AES?

No - the STM32L162RCT6 integrates only a dedicated AES-128 hardware accelerator. It does not include SHA, RSA, or ECC engines. Secure boot relies on immutable bootloader and option byte configuration; key management must be implemented in software using the AES peripheral.

How many I/O pins are 5V tolerant, and what is the absolute maximum rating for those pins?

70 I/O pins are 5V tolerant, as confirmed in Section 2.1 and Table 2 of DS8928 Rev 12. The absolute maximum rating for 5V-tolerant pins is VDD + 4 V (up to 7.6 V when VDD = 3.6 V), per Section 6.2 Absolute Maximum Ratings - enabling direct interfacing with legacy 5V logic without level shifters.

Can the internal step-up converter power external circuitry, or is it strictly for the LCD module?

The internal step-up converter is dedicated solely to generating VLCD for the integrated LCD controller. Its output is not accessible externally, and no routing path exists to use it for other loads. External circuits requiring boosted voltage must use discrete DC-DC converters or charge pumps.