STMicroelectronics announced the power line transceiver ST7540, a half duplex Binary-FSK (Frequency Shift Keying) transceiver designed for two-way network communication over power lines, with eight selectable carrier frequencies, covering CENELEC bands A, B and C, and 4 programmable baud rates from 600 to 4800 bps. The device integrates a single ended Power Amplifier with accessible input and output lines that can be used with just a few external signal components as part of a tunable active filter for the transmission path. In addition to the 5V regulator found on the ST7538, a new on-chip 3.3V 50mA voltage regulator, intended for powering different types of external microcontrollers.

Other new include programmable header recognition and frame length count - to increase efficiency and reduce power consumption by activating the external MCU only when a message with a specific header or frame length is detected - and programmable output level freezing, to increase transmission stability in particularly noisy environments. The on-chip available-output-voltage and current loops always allow the transmission levels to be automatically and safely adapted to the line impedance. The new transceiver enables the design of home and building automation, such as integrating a complete PLC node in a socket or switch. It is also suited for 'outdoor' applications, such as small street lighting controllers and Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) systems. ST7540 is available now in sample quantities, in the 28-pin HTSSOP28 exposed pad package. Volume pricing will be in the region of $5.00 in quantities of 1000 pieces.