Renesas Electronics has announced the launch of its RX261 and RX260 microcontroller (MCU) series, aimed at delivering high efficiency and advanced features for a range of applications.
Operating at 64MHz, these MCUs offer exceptional power efficiency, consuming only 69μA/MHz during active operation and a mere 1μA in standby mode. With this combination of low power usage and advanced features, the RX261/RX260 MCUs are well-suited for applications such as home appliances, building and factory automation, smart locks, e-bikes, and mobile thermal printers.
Built on Renesas’ RXv3 CPU core, the RX261/RX260 achieves a CoreMark score of 355 at 64MHz—2.5 times higher than competing MCUs in the same class. Additionally, these MCUs boast 25% lower active current and 87% lower standby current compared to similar products. This high level of power efficiency helps reduce energy consumption in appliances and extends battery life in portable devices.
Renesas’ third-generation capacitive touch IP (CTSU2SL) integrated into these MCUs provides high noise immunity and water resistance, making them ideal for use in appliances and outdoor equipment such as smart locks. The built-in automatic judgement function further minimises power consumption by allowing touch detection even during standby. To simplify the implementation of touch sensors, Renesas offers a range of resources, including the QE for Capacitive Touch tuning tool, design guides, and sample programmes.
As many consumer and industrial systems now incorporate wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for smartphone control and firmware updates, security has become crucial. The RX261/RX260 MCUs feature Renesas Secure IP (RSIP-E11A) and flash protection functions to guard against data tampering and unauthorised access. Sample programmes are available to help users quickly implement secure boot and secure firmware updates.
The RX261 MCUs also provide an extensive array of features, including a Full Speed USB function controller and an on-chip high-speed oscillator (HOCO), eliminating the need for external crystals. The MCUs come with a CAN FD module for fast, reliable communication and include 8 KB of data flash, allowing users to do away with external EEPROM.
“The RX130 and RX230 have seen great market success, and the new RX260/261 products provide an upgrade path with an advanced RX CPU core and enhanced performance and peripherals based on customer requests,” explained Daryl Khoo, Vice President of Embedded Processing 1st Business Division at Renesas. “We have built a great relationship with RX customers around the world based on Renesas MCU core technology and years of innovation, including patented technology. The RX MCUs have established a unique place in the industry, and Renesas will continue to develop RX products as long as our customers want them.”
There’s plenty of other editorial on our sister site, Electronic Specifier! Or you can always join in the conversation by commenting below or visiting our LinkedIn page.
