72 MHz Cortex-M3 with 1 MB Flash — the high-density STM32F103 variant
This is the highest-density Flash option in the STM32F103 line, making it a fit for applications that need to run complex communications stacks, motor-control algorithms, or data-logging firmware without external memory.
80 I/O and on-chip peripherals — what the feature set means for the BOM
With 80 I/O lines in a 100-pin LQFP, this MCU can handle parallel LCD interfaces, multiple encoder inputs, and a bank of discrete control signals without a port expander. The peripheral set includes DMA, motor-control PWM, a temperature sensor, and a watchdog timer — enough to implement a sensor-fusion node or a brushless DC motor drive with a single chip. The 16-channel 12-bit ADC samples at up to 1 µs per channel, adequate for current sensing in a motor phase loop or for reading a bank of analog sensors. The dual 12-bit DAC can generate analog setpoints or audio waveforms without an external converter.
ST continues to manufacture this part, and there is no end-of-life notification or last-time-buy window on the horizon.
Supply range and package — design-in notes
The internal oscillator reduces external component count, though a precision crystal can be added for USB or CAN timing accuracy.