STM32U5 devices with vector graphics acceleration add massive SRAM for on-chip storage

[Daniel_P]

The STM32U5F9/G9 and STM32U5F7/G7 MCUs offer 3 MB of on-chip dynamic storage. This SRAM means they can manage several frame buffers for graphics displays, reducing the need for more memory components. The microcontrollers come equipped with ST's NeoChromVG graphics processor (GPU), which is capable of delivering the kind of graphical effects you would normally expect from more costly, high-end microprocessor units.

Equipped with NeoChromVG, these STM32U5 microcontrollers are the first to offer hardware support for vector operations, enabling the rendering of SVGs and vector-based fonts. NeoChromVG GPU facilitates advanced graphical effects, including rotation, alpha blending, and texture mapping with precise perspective correction. These MCUse also come with a JPEG codec capable of processing MJPEG videos.

Integrating all circuitry inside the MCUs’ low-cost 100-pin quad-flat package allows a simple 4-layer PCB design to avoid the usual challenges associated with signal routing and electromagnetic compatibility. Developers can use the STM32U5G9J-DK2 graphic development kits, a hardware reference design to accelerate time to market.

Riverdi, an ST Authorized Partner, has already used the STM32U5F9/G9 MCUs to create new products that feature advanced graphics. “Our new STM32U5F9/G9-based embedded display is fully supported in ST’s TouchGFX GUI design framework, which allows our customers to start developing their own UI immediately after unpacking their new display.” said Kamil Kozłowski, Co-CEO of Riverdi.

Built with the advanced and efficient Arm® Cortex®-M33 core, the new MCUs perform up to 240 DMIPS at 160MHz and 464 ULPMark-CoreProfile. The 200nA standby mode, multiple stop modes with partial RAM retention and fast wake-up, and efficient operation at 16µA/MHz in run mode enhance flexibility to optimize power saving and performance.

Developers can also take advantage of proven STM32 peripherals and IoT hardware-security features, as well as the STM23Cube ecosystem that includes software tools, middleware, libraries, and code examples.

ULPMark-CP: the EEMBC® energy-performance benchmark for ultra-low-power MCUs. With a score of 464, the STM32U5 graphics MCUs are among the top seven of tested devices from all manufacturers. Read more.

Additional resources:

• The ST blog: NeoChromVG GPU, the 1st vector graphics accelerator for general-purpose MCUs enables single-chip designs 
• The ST blog: TouchGFX 

First published on Jan 17, 2024