STMicroelectronics presents cost-effective, cable-free connectivity for eUSB accessories, devices and industrial applications

STMicroelectronics’ new short-range wireless transceivers eliminate the need for cables and connectors in user-friendly accessories and personal electronics such as digital cameras, wearable devices, portable hard drives and small gaming terminals. They also address data transfer challenges in industrial applications such as rotating machines.

As a cost-effective cable replacement, the ST60A3H0 and ST60A3H1 transceivers allow designers to create products in slim, hole-free form factors that can be stylish, waterproof, and enable convenient wireless docking. Self-detection with instant connection saves pairing, and low power consumption extends battery life. They operate in the 60 GHz V band and provide eUSB2, I2C, SPI, UART and GPIO tunneling.

Consuming 130 mW in eUSB Rx/Tx mode and just 90 mW in UART, GPIO and I2C modes, and 23 µW in off mode, power requirements are minimal. Because devices can support data exchange rates of up to 480 Mbit/s, as defined by the USB 2.0 High Speed ​​specification, wireless connections can deliver speeds comparable to cables and low latency.

The ST60A3H1 has an integrated antenna that facilitates the final system design. It is available in a compact 3mm x 4mm VFBGA package. The ST60A3H0 is designed to connect an external antenna, providing flexibility for a variety of applications. It has smaller dimensions – 2.2 mm x 2.6 mm.

In industrial environments, wireless connections to these transceivers provide benefits including safe galvanic isolation and resistance to environmental hazards such as dust and moisture. The devices are also ideal for rotating machines and instruments such as radars and lidars, as well as mobile equipment such as robotic arms. Because they are free from mechanical wear, their service life is not limited by the number of revolutions. This provides greater reliability than slip rings, especially for high data rate signals, at a lower cost than fiber optic rotary unions (FORJ).

The transceivers are easy to use, with no need to install software drivers or a protocol stack. In addition to improving the end-user experience, they enable fast and efficient non-contact product testing and debugging, including firmware over-the-air (FOTA) loading, during production and after sales.

The ST60A3H0 and ST60A3H1 are in full production and are covered by ST’s 10-year product durability program, ensuring long-term support and availability. Samples are now available. Detailed technical data, evaluation kits and production prices are subject to a confidentiality agreement.

More information can be found at www.st.com/en/wireless-connectivity/60-ghz-contactless-products.html.

STMicroelectronics presents cost-effective, cable-free connectivity for eUSB accessories, devices and industrial applications