Texas Instruments (TI) has officially introduced the F28E12x series of C2000 real-time MCUs, a low-cost yet powerful solution designed for high-performance motor control applications. These chips bring the C28x DSP core running at 160 MHz, advanced control peripherals, and InstaSPIN software support, making them a serious contender for sensorless motor control in appliances, tools, and industrial systems.
Let’s dive into what makes this lineup special, how it compares to previous generations, and why it could be a go-to option for engineers working on real-time control.
Key Highlights of the TI C2000 F28E12x Series
- Core: C28x 32-bit DSP core @ 160 MHz
- Performance: ~30% higher than earlier C2000 devices (equivalent to a 320 MHz Cortex-M7 in signal chain performance)
- Memory: Up to 128 KB ECC-protected flash + 16 KB parity-protected SRAM
- Analog Integration: 12-bit ADC @ 9.4 MSPS, programmable gain amplifier (PGA), comparators, and DAC
- Motor Control: Optimized for Field-Oriented Control (FOC), delivering speeds above 120,000 rpm with smooth torque and reduced noise
- Connectivity: SPI, SCI (UART-compatible), I²C, UART, and GPIO expansion
- Security: JTAGLOCK, dual-zone memory security, and CMAC AES key protection
- Packages:
- 32-pin VQFN (5×5 mm) – ultra-compact
- 32-pin or 48-pin LQFP (7×7 mm / 9×9 mm) – more I/O flexibility
- Price Point: As low as $0.49 (SB variant) in 1k+ quantities
TI has kept things simple with two main variants:
| MCU Variant | Flash | Package Options | Key Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| F28E120SB | 64 KB | 32-pin VQFN | Cost-sensitive, space-constrained designs |
| F28E120SC | 128 KB | 32-pin / 48-pin LQFP | More I/O, memory-heavy control systems |
Both share the same 160 MHz DSP core and peripherals, but the SC gives developers more breathing room for advanced designs.
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| F28E120SB - C2000™ 32-bit MCU with 160 MHz, 64KB flash, FPU, PGA |
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| F28E120SC - C2000™ 32-bit MCU with 160 MHz, 128-KB flash, FPU, PGA |
The F28E12x series is not just another budget MCU. TI has packed in real-world motor control features, including:
- Sensorless FOC – Precision motor control without external sensors
- Vibration Compensation Algorithms – Cuts speed ripple by up to 60%
- High Torque Startup – Smooth and reliable motor startup, even at zero speed
- Noise Reduction – Helps reduce acoustic noise in consumer appliances
These capabilities make the MCUs a strong fit for appliances (washing machines, ACs, dishwashers), power tools (drills, vacuum cleaners), and industrial drives.
To support quick adoption, TI has launched the LAUNCHXL-F28E12X LaunchPad development kit.
- Built around the F28E120SC (128KB flash, 16KB SRAM)
- Onboard XDS110 debug probe
- 40-pin BoosterPack connector for add-on boards
- USB-C and external power options
- Encoder interface, user LEDs, and reset switch
- Preloaded demo for motor control evaluation
Developers also benefit from:
- C2000Ware SDK (drivers, libraries, examples)
- Code Composer Studio (CCSTUDIO) IDE
- InstaSPIN software for FOC and motion control
- Training via C28x Academy
For advanced prototyping, TI also offers BOOSTXL motor driver packs, high-voltage motor control boards, and accessories for PMSM drive testing.
While TI has a strong legacy in real-time MCUs, the F28E12x series enters a competitive field. Other notable options include:
- NXP MCX A34 – Cortex-M33-based MCU with math acceleration for motor + HVAC control
- Infineon PSOC Control C3x – Real-time Cortex-M33 devices with motor control integration
- STMicro STSPIN32G0 – Compact MCU + 3-phase motor driver combo
Compared to these, TI’s F28E12x has the advantage of ultra-low pricing, tight integration, and an established InstaSPIN software ecosystem.
Pricing and Availability
- F28E120SB (64 KB flash, 32-pin VQFN) → ~$0.49 (1k units)
- F28E120SC (128 KB flash, 32/48-pin LQFP) → ~$0.70 (1k units)
- LAUNCHXL-F28E12X LaunchPad → $19.00 USD
Currently in pre-production, both MCUs are active but show as out of stock on TI.com. The LaunchPad is available separately for developers eager to start testing.
The TI C2000 F28E12x series offers a sweet balance of performance, integration, and cost-effectiveness. With sub-$1 pricing, real-time DSP capabilities, and motor-specific optimizations, these MCUs are set to drive adoption in consumer appliances, tools, and industrial motor systems.
For developers, the LaunchPad and InstaSPIN support mean less time fighting low-level details and more time fine-tuning control strategies.
If you’re working on sensorless motor control designs, this series deserves a spot on your shortlist.
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