Texas Instruments TM4C1290NCZADT3

Overview

TM4C1290NCZADT3 from Texas Instruments is an ARM Cortex-M4F-based microcontroller with 120 MHz operation, 1 MB Flash, 256 KB SRAM, integrated Ethernet MAC+PHY, USB 2.0 OTG, and dual CAN 2.0B controllers - deployed in industrial gateways requiring deterministic real-time control and wired connectivity.

For engineers reviewing the TM4C1290NCZADT3 datasheet, TM4C1290NCZADT3 pinout, TM4C1290NCZADT3 application, or TM4C1290NCZADT3 equivalent, key selection criteria include Ethernet PHY integration, floating-point unit (FPU) support, hibernation mode current (2 µA), 144-pin LQFP package, and TivaWare™ software stack compatibility.

Technical Context

The TM4C1290NCZADT3 implements a full-featured ARM Cortex-M4F core with hardware FPU and DSP extensions, supporting single-cycle MAC and IEEE 754-compliant floating-point arithmetic. It integrates a complete 10/100 Ethernet subsystem with internal PHY, eliminating external magnetics in many designs.

System-level features include a hibernation module with RTC, tamper detection, and battery-backed memory; μDMA controller with 32-channel arbitration; and EPI interface supporting SDRAM, NOR flash, and FPGA interfacing - enabling high-bandwidth peripheral expansion without CPU overhead.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TM4C1290NCZADT3 is housed in a 144-pin LQFP package (PZ suffix), with exposed thermal pad for enhanced heat dissipation in continuous Ethernet/USB operation. Pin assignments follow TI's standard Tiva C Series layout, validated per DS-TM4C1290NCZAD-15863.2743.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.

Compared with STM32H743VI and MSP432E401Y, TM4C1290NCZADT3 uniquely delivers production-ready Ethernet PHY integration, hibernation-optimized power architecture, and vendor-supported TCP/IP + USB stacks - reducing time-to-certification for industrial networking products.

Availability

TM4C1290NCZADT3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial gateways, building automation controllers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and energy metering hubs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TM4C1290NCZADT3 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog, embedded processing, and wireless technologies for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The TM4C1290NCZADT3 belongs to the Tiva C Series microcontroller family, designed specifically for real-time industrial connectivity applications requiring integrated wired communications, deterministic control, and low-power hibernation capabilities.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the TM4C1290NCZADT3?

The TM4C1290NCZADT3 operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 120 MHz, derived from its internal PLL with support for multiple clock sources including external crystal (1–25 MHz), internal oscillator, or precision internal oscillator (PIOSC). This frequency enables real-time execution of Ethernet TCP/IP stack, USB protocols, and control algorithms without external acceleration.

Does the TM4C1290NCZADT3 include an integrated Ethernet physical layer (PHY)?

Yes, the TM4C1290NCZADT3 integrates a full 10/100 Ethernet PHY compliant with IEEE 802.3u, supporting RMII interface with dedicated pins (EPH0–EPH15, EPM0–EPM7). This eliminates the need for an external PHY IC and associated magnetics, simplifying design and reducing bill-of-materials cost in industrial gateway applications using the TM4C1290NCZADT3.

What power-saving modes does the TM4C1290NCZADT3 support?

The TM4C1290NCZADT3 supports multiple low-power states including Sleep, Deep-Sleep, and Hibernate. In Hibernate mode, it draws just 2 µA while retaining RTC operation, tamper status, and 1 KB of RAM - enabling battery-backed operation for extended periods. Wake-up can be triggered by RTC alarm, GPIO event, or Ethernet activity, making the TM4C1290NCZADT3 ideal for always-on but intermittently active edge nodes.

Is the TM4C1290NCZADT3 compatible with the TivaWare™ software development kit?

Yes, the TM4C1290NCZADT3 is fully supported by Texas Instruments' TivaWare™ Peripheral Driver Library, which provides production-ready drivers for all on-chip peripherals, including Ethernet MAC/PHY, USB OTG, CAN, ADC, and PWM. The TM4C1290NCZADT3 also ships with example projects, TCP/IP stack (FreeRTOS-based), and USB device/host class libraries - accelerating firmware development and certification.

What is the package type and pin count of the TM4C1290NCZADT3?

The TM4C1290NCZADT3 is packaged in a 144-pin LQFP (PZ suffix), measuring 20 mm × 20 mm with 0.5 mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This package supports industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and is optimized for reflow soldering. Pinout is documented in Section 1.4 and Appendix A of the official TM4C1290NCZAD datasheet, and matches TI's standardized Tiva C Series footprint for drop-in compatibility across the family.