In a move that enhances the energy efficiency and autonomy in microcontroller units (MCUs), LAYER uses ambient indoor light to generate sustainable micro-power devices – enhancing both the energy efficiency and autonomy in microcontroller units (MCUs),
The new advanced ultra-low-power STM32U0 microcontrollers for industrial, medical, smart-metering, and consumer applications are a new generation of energy-conscious and cost-effective MCUs that can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% compared to previous MCU generations.
Formalising this cooperation, Dracula Technologies is now a member of the ST Partner Program that aims to streamline the development of end-to-end solutions, reducing product development efforts and accelerating time to market while pushing the boundaries of innovation in the ultra-low power segment.
According to Thierry Bousquet, STM32 Ultra-Low Power Product Line Marketing Manager at STMicroelectronics, "STMicroelectronics' integration of Dracula Technologies' OPV in an STM32U0 demo – to be shown at Embedded World 2024 - marks a new era of energy-efficient microcontroller units. Our aim in creating the low-power MCU STM32U0 was to enable applications that demand ultra-low power consumption, particularly crucial for numerous self-powered (autonomous) sensors, relying on energy harvesting instead of traditional batteries.
“One of the STM32U0 demos that garnered a lot of attention is an illuminometer built using Dracula Technologies’ OPV module. It runs on a small photovoltaic panel receiving only 5 lux instead of the traditional coin battery. We chose Dracula Technologies for its exceptional energy-harvesting capabilities, particularly in indoor low-light environments, enabling devices to operate under challenging conditions. The STM32U0 will help design teams save energy and provide the optimal compromise between energy consumption, integrated features, and cost-effectiveness.”
Jerome Vernet, VP of Sales at Dracula Technologies, said of the collaboration with ST, "It represents the culmination of our close relationship and shared vision, resulting in powerful synergies. Being chosen to power this product marks a significant milestone, and we are delighted to join the ST Partner Program to further drive innovation in energy harvesting."
STMicroelectronics’ utilisation of OPV underscores its focus on harnessing cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of various industries.
Leveraging the capabilities of the OPV, the STM32U0 has been able to achieve impressive static power consumption levels, enabling engineers to optimise their designs for a broad number of battery-powered applications across industrial, medical, Smart metering, and consumer wellness markets.
