Freescale 16-bit Mixed-signal MCUs Target Automotive Applications

San Antonio, Texas – Freescale Semiconductor has launched the first single-chip device in its S12 MagniV mixed-signal microcontroller (MCU) family, the S12VR64.

Based on Freescale’s proprietary LL18UHV technology, which uses the proven low-leakage 0.18 micron (LL18) fabrication process to integrate 40V analog, non-volatile memory (NVM) and digital logic on a single piece of silicon, the S12VR64 MCU is designed for use in DC motors for automotive window lift and sunroof applications connected to local interconnect network (LIN) automotive body networks. Additionally, the S12VR64 leverages the S12 16-bit MCU, enabling software compatibility and tool reuse across a broad range of applications.

The increasing vehicle production, especially in emerging economies including China and India, coupled with the increasing processor content in cars are driving the strong growth of the automotive MCU industry. Reza Kazerounian, senior vice president and general manager of Freescale’s Microcontroller Solutions Group, said that the company is expanding its comprehensive and innovative portfolio of MCUs and MPUs to address these trends. “We are leveraging our automotive semiconductor leadership and proven process technology expertise to create a more efficient solution for networked automotive applications,” he added.

In particular, Kazerounian noted that Freescale is targeting the high-growth segments of the automotive MCU market. These include the hybrid/EV, safety (advanced driver assistance systems or ADAS) segment, and the driver information segments. He added that the company has been successfully achieving increasing design wins in India and China. In line with this, the company has been investing heavily in further increasing its automotive MCU market share in Asia.

Freescale intends to expand the S12 MagniV family to include a full range of AEC-Q100 qualified products that integrate an MCU, automotive voltage regulators, LIN and CAN physical layers, motor drivers and more in either single-chip or dual-die form, all in single-package solutions.

Freescale Semiconductor