Arm TrustZone hardware security feature integration
Achieved 402 ULPMark-CP on EMBC ULPBench
STMicroelectronics has launched the STM32L5, a microcontroller based on the Arm Cortex-M33 core that provides cyber protection for power-sensitive connected devices.

ST’s STM32L5 series MCUs feature an embedded Cortex-M33 that integrates Arm’s TrustZone hardware-based security capabilities to enhance security in small devices, adding advanced features such as flexible software isolation, secure boot, key storage, and hardware cryptographic accelerators. Additionally, they provide rich functionality, exceptional performance, and long runtimes for coin cell or energy harvesting-powered devices. The new MCU series, which consumes only 33nA in shutdown mode and achieved 402 ULPMark-CP on EEMBC ULPBench, is built upon ST’s expertise in low-power techniques verified in the previous STM32L series, such as adaptive voltage scaling and real-time acceleration, power gating, and various low-power operating modes.

The STM32L5 MCU, which integrates digital and analog peripherals and consumer and industrial interfaces such as CAN FD, USB Type-C, and USB PD (Power Delivery), provides an ideal platform for a wide range of products including industrial sensors or controls, home automation devices, smart meters, fitness trackers, smartwatches, medical pumps, and meters.

The STM32L5 series microcontrollers are currently being supplied as samples, and mass production is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2019.

Ricardo de Sa Earp, Head of Microcontroller Business at ST, stated, “The STM32L5 can significantly enhance and stabilize the cybersecurity capabilities of small IoT devices with TrustZone and additional custom protection features,” adding, “This device is also equipped with ST’s unique energy-saving technology, rich connectivity, and smart digital and analog peripherals, making it a product that will lead the way in cutting-edge connected applications.”

John Ronco, Vice President and General Manager of Arm’s Embedded and Automotive Line, stated, “As the intelligence and capabilities of IoT devices continue to increase, building comprehensive security features is essential,” adding, “Arm’s Platform Security Architecture (PSA), a universal framework for security implementation, is at the center of IoT devices. “We aim to build security. The STM32L5 series enables developers to more easily develop trusted devices on the PSA framework through the Cortex-M33 processor, TrustZone technology, and enhanced SoC security features,” he explained.