STM32H7 vs. LPC55: A Battle of High-Performance Microcontrollers
When it comes to high-performance microcontrollers, two juggernauts stand out: the STM32H7 from STMicroelectronics and the LPC55 from NXP. While both microcontrollers offer excellent performance, there are some key differences worth noting.
Processing Power
The STM32H7 features a 32-bit Cortex-M7 core running at up to 400 MHz, while the LPC55 offers a dual-core ARM Cortex-M33 and Cortex-M33+ running at up to 150 MHz. While the LPC55 may have a slower clock speed, its dual-core design offers a performance boost through parallel processing.
Memory
Both the STM32H7 and the LPC55 offer plenty of memory. However, the STM32H7 has an edge with up to 2MB of flash memory when compared to the LPC55's 512KB. The STM32H7 also offers up to 1MB of RAM, while the LPC55 offers up to 640KB. This makes the STM32H7 a better choice for applications requiring larger amounts of memory.
Connectivity
The STM32H7 offers various connectivity options, including USB OTG, CAN, Ethernet, and SPI, making it a good choice for applications that require multiple communication protocols. The LPC55 offers similar connectivity options, but with the added benefit of Bluetooth Low Energy support.
Power Consumption
The LPC55 boasts a low-power design, with a power consumption of less than 100µA/MHz in active mode, making it ideal for battery-powered applications. The STM32H7, on the other hand, draws around 500µA/MHz in active mode. If low power consumption is a top priority, the LPC55 could be the better choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the STM32H7 and the LPC55 will depend on your specific needs. If you require a high clock rate and a significant amount of memory, the STM32H7 is the clear winner. If low power consumption is essential, the LPC55 is the better option.
References
- STMicroelectronics. (2022). STM32H7 series - High-performance MCUs with ARM Cortex-M7 kernel. https://www.st.com/en/microcontrollers-microprocessors/stm32h7-series.html
- NXP. (2022). LPC5500 Series | Arm Cortex-M33 and Cortex-M33+ | High-Performance Microcontrollers (MCUs). https://www.nxp.com/products/processors-and-microcontrollers/arm-microcontrollers/general-purpose-mcus/lpc5500-series-cortex-m33-mcus-with-m0-plus-core:OM13092