Tiny microcontrollers for IoT connectivity modules and space-constrained Edge devices

Renesas Electronics has announced four new RX651 32-bit MCUs supplied in ultra-small 64-pin BGA and LQFP packages. The new lineup expands the company’s popular RX651 MCU Group with a 64-pin (4.5mm x 4.5mm) BGA package that decreases footprint size by 59% compared to the 100-pin LGA and a 64-pin (10mm x 10mm) LQFP that provides a 49% reduction versus the 100-pin LQFP. The MCUs address advanced security demands for endpoint devices using compact sensor and communication modules in network control, industrial, building automation, and smart metering systems working at the IoT edge.

“The explosive growth of the IoT and Industry 4.0 has sparked the need for higher performance, smaller form factor connectivity modules that support the various security aspects required with IoT connectivity – such as confidentiality, data integrity and availability. The RX651 delivers on this need with smaller MCU package sizes that are ideal for compact IoT applications, without compromising performance,” said Daryl Khoo, vice president of marketing, IoT Platform Business Division, Renesas Electronics Corporation. “The 64-pin RX651 MCUs give customers the small footprint, high performance, and security features they need to safeguard their connected industrial and manufacturing systems against cyber-attacks.”

The MCUs integrate connectivity, TSIP, and trusted flash area protection that allows flash firmware updates in the field by secure network communications. The increase in endpoint devices working at the edge has grown the demand for secure OTA firmware updates. The new devices support this reprogramming demand with integrated TSIP, enhanced flash protection, and other technology advancements that provide a more secure and stable solution than other accessible solutions on the market.