The ST16C1551CP is a single-channel UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter) manufactured by Exar Corporation. It's designed to provide asynchronous serial data communication with enhanced features such as a 32-byte FIFO, which helps to reduce the CPU overhead associated with serial communication. This UART is widely used in applications requiring reliable and efficient serial data transfer.

Applications

• Serial communication ports in embedded systems
• Industrial automation equipment
• Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals
• Data acquisition systems
• Modems and other communication devices

Features

• Single UART channel
• 32-byte FIFO for transmitter and receiver
• Programmable baud rate generator
• Automatic hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (Xon/Xoff) flow control
• Modem control signals (CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, RI, DCD)
• Interrupt generation for various events (receiver data available, transmitter holding register empty, line status changes, modem status changes)
• Data rates up to 3 Mbps
• 8-bit parallel data bus interface

Benefits

• Reduced CPU overhead: The large 32-byte FIFO buffers data, minimizing the number of interrupts and freeing up CPU resources.
• Increased system throughput: Higher data transfer rates improve overall system performance.
• Reliable data communication: Hardware and software flow control prevent data loss due to buffer overflow.
• Easy integration: The parallel data bus interface simplifies interfacing to microprocessors and microcontrollers.
• Versatile communication: Supports a wide range of baud rates and communication protocols.

Additional Details

The ST16C1551CP operates on a 3.3V or 5V power supply and is typically available in a 48-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) or other similar packages. The internal baud rate generator can be programmed to generate various baud rates using an external crystal or clock input. The UART also includes full modem control signals, enabling it to be used in modem applications and other communication devices requiring these signals. The large FIFO is a significant feature, making this UART a desirable replacement in older designs utilizing smaller FIFOs.

The ST16C1551CP is designed to be compatible with industry-standard UARTs and offers a cost-effective solution for asynchronous serial communication. Configuration registers are used to set the baud rate, data format (number of data bits, parity, stop bits), and flow control options. The interrupt enable registers allow specific interrupt sources to be enabled or disabled, allowing the programmer to tailor the UART's interrupt behavior. The 'CP' suffix usually denotes a commercial temperature range part.