Any differences between these two STM32F030C8T6 chips?

[GOWTHAMAN]

We need further clarification regarding the difference between the above ICs.

We recently purchased the mentioned STM32 MCU, but received two different variants. In one IC, the ST logo on the right side has the marking “e3” with “L” outside the circle. In the other IC, the ST logo on the right side has the marking “e4” with “L” outside the circle.

Kindly clarify the difference between the “e3” and “e4” markings and confirm whether both ICs are equivalent in specification and performance.

[Peter BENSCH]

Welcome @GOWTHAMAN, to the community!

What you read as an 'L' is actually the number 1; it is used for internal identification purposes and is of no relevance to end users. The only difference here is the designation 'e3' versus 'e4', which relates solely to environmental compatibility and does not imply any technical differences.

Regards
/Peter

[GOWTHAMAN]

Thank you for your support.

Could you please clarify what you mean by “environment compatibility”? In our application, the E3 version of the MCU is not supported, while the E4 version is working perfectly under the same conditions.

We have attached images for your reference. These images show the UART data, where some data appears to be missing when using the E3 MCU. The hardware and software are identical in both cases; the only difference is between the E3 and E4 MCU versions.

In particular, please refer to the top-right section, second line, where “ncard: 12” is displayed. We request you to review the attached images and provide your feedback.

[Peter BENSCH]

I need to correct my previous statement slightly: the ‘1’ in the bottom right-hand corner refers to the die revision, which is rev 1 in both cases. This can also be found in the datasheet and the errata sheet.

As for the missing characters from the USART, there are indeed notes in the errata, but both devices should behave identically if they have the same die revision.

Ideally, the cause should now be investigated using a debugger, though of course only the developer with the source code can do this. Missing transmitted USART characters with the exact same die revision definitely cannot be explained by slightly different marking.

However, you could also ask your supplier if they can provide proof of the supply chain and thus verify that the parts are genuine. The STM32F030 was in extremely short supply during the pandemic and was often illegally cloned.

Regards
/Peter