NEC Electronics Introduces the 78K0S/Kx1+ Series of 8 -Bit Microcontrollers

Low Pin Count and Small Footprint, Cost-Efficient Single-Chip Solutions

KAWASAKI, Japan, DUESSELDORF, Germany, May 25, 2004 – NEC Electronics Corporation and its subsidiary in Europe, NEC Electronics (Europe) GmbH, today introduced the 78K0S/Kx1+ Series of 8-bit single-chip microcontrollers. The new series boasts low pin counts at low prices, promoting efficient and affordable system development for applications that require affordable solutions such as the automotive, industrial device, lighting equipment, and sensor markets. The 20-pin 78K0S/KA1+, the first product in the series, is now sample shipping.

“As systems become increasingly complex, interfacing with external components becomes more frequent, leading to higher pin counts as well as prices. However, many applications require lower pin counts without sacrificing functionality.” said Shinichi Iwamoto, general manager, 2nd Microcomputer Division, NEC Electronics Corporation. “There is strong demand for affordable, low pin count products with small footprints that enable flexible system design.”

In addition to lower pin counts and small footprint, the 78K0S/Kx1+ series uses SuperFlash® single power supply flash memory licensed from Silicon Storage Technology, Inc., which offers superior re-programmability after product installation and flexibility for future software and product changes. The memory space is comprised of compact 256-byte blocks, which allows the flash to be used instead of external electrical programmable ROM (EEPROM). An 8MHz on-chip oscillator, poweron- clear circuit (POC/POR), and low voltage indicator (LVI) enable all non-power-supply pins to be used as ports, which help to reduce costs and board space.

Volume production is scheduled to begin in October, with monthly production estimated at 500,000 units.

NEC Electronics will continue to increase its low pin count offerings, with plans to unveil 30-pin, 16- pin, and 8-pin products in the near future. Please refer to the attachment for product specifications.

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