Microcontrollers (MCUs) are essential components in a wide range of applications, from industrial automation systems controlling manufacturing lines to aerospace systems that ensure the safety and functionality of spacecraft. The global MCU market is expected to reach $28.8 billion by 2026, underscoring their importance. However, in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI), the performance of these devices can be significantly affected. Electromagnetic waves, which can emanate from sources like power lines, motors, or radio transmissions, may cause data corruption, signal degradation, and even permanent damage to sensitive components. For instance, in military or space missions, the effects of EMI can lead to mission failure if not mitigated. Studies show that unshielded devices in high-EMI environments can experience failure rates as high as 30%. Therefore, selecting MCUs specifically designed to withstand EMI is critical. These specialized microcontrollers are equipped with advanced noise filtering, shielding, and robust circuit designs to maintain system stability and reliability in such challenging conditions. In sectors like automotive or industrial automation, where failure could result in costly downtime or safety risks, ensuring proper EMI resistance is vital for operational continuity.
1. STMicroelectronics STM32H7 series
The STM32H7 series by STMicroelectronics is a high-performance microcontroller series designed to withstand tough electromagnetic environments. Built with advanced EMI shielding and robust processing capabilities, these MCUs are widely used in automotive, industrial, and medical applications where high resilience is needed. The STM32H7 MCUs feature an ARM Cortex-M7 core running at up to 480 MHz, making them capable of handling demanding tasks while ensuring stable operation in challenging electromagnetic fields.
Key features:
- High EMI resistance due to advanced shielding and noise filtering
- ARM Cortex-M7 core with up to 480 MHz processing speed
- Integrated safety features for automotive and medical industries
- Advanced digital and analog peripherals for robust system integration
2. Texas instruments MSP430FR series
Texas Instruments’ MSP430FR series are ultra-low-power microcontrollers equipped with FRAM (Ferroelectric RAM), which offers enhanced data integrity and resilience to radiation and electromagnetic disturbances. These MCUs are ideal for battery-powered systems, smart sensors, and devices exposed to high EMI levels in applications such as industrial controls and remote sensing. With its low power consumption and built-in noise reduction features, the MSP430FR series offers an excellent balance of efficiency and durability.
Key features:
- FRAM for increased data integrity in EMI-prone environments
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Built-in noise filters and EMI resistance
- Versatile input/output options for varied applications
3. NXP LPC800 series
NXP’s LPC800 series is known for its high durability against electromagnetic interference, featuring a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M0+ processor. These MCUs are designed for small form-factor applications where EMI is a concern. Their robust construction and ability to handle high levels of electromagnetic noise make them suitable for automotive, industrial, and embedded systems. The LPC800 series also offers a range of digital and analog interfaces to suit various needs.
Key features:
- 32-bit ARM Cortex-M0+ core for efficient processing
- Resilient to electromagnetic noise and voltage spikes
- Low-cost, ideal for cost-sensitive applications
- Rich peripheral set for diverse applications
4. Microchip PIC32MZ series
The PIC32MZ series from Microchip offers high-performance microcontrollers with significant immunity to EMI. These MCUs are equipped with a 32-bit MIPS core and are designed to operate reliably in noisy environments, including automotive and aerospace applications. With a combination of high-speed processing and robust EMI protection, the PIC32MZ series is ideal for real-time systems where precision and stability are essential under electromagnetic stress.
Key features:
- 32-bit MIPS core for high processing power
- Enhanced EMI protection for automotive and aerospace sectors
- Wide range of integrated peripherals for diverse applications
- Low latency for real-time control systems
5. Renesas RX series
The Renesas RX series features high-performance 32-bit MCUs designed for critical applications requiring resilience to external disturbances, including electromagnetic interference. These MCUs utilize advanced noise-immune technologies and are built with hardware redundancy to ensure operation in environments with fluctuating electromagnetic fields. The RX series is commonly found in industrial automation, energy management systems, and automotive control systems.
Key features:
- Advanced noise-immune technology
- Hardware redundancy for system stability
- High-speed processing capabilities
- Flexible I/O options for integration into complex systems
Comparison table
| Microcontroller | Core | Clock Speed | Key Feature | Application Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STM32H7 | ARM Cortex-M7 | Up to 480 MHz | Advanced EMI shielding | Automotive, medical, industrial |
| MSP430FR | FRAM, Ultra-low power | Up to 25 MHz | Low power, high EMI resistance | Smart sensors, industrial controls |
| LPC800 | ARM Cortex-M0+ | Up to 30 MHz | Low-cost, EMI-resistant | Automotive, embedded systems |
| PIC32MZ | MIPS | Up to 200 MHz | High performance, EMI protection | Aerospace, automotive |
| RX Series | RX Core | Up to 120 MHz | Noise-immune, hardware redundancy | Energy management, industrial automation |
Conclusion
Choosing the right microcontroller for EMI-prone environments is crucial for maintaining system reliability and performance. The microcontrollers discussed in this article — STM32H7, MSP430FR, LPC800, PIC32MZ, and RX Series — offer advanced noise immunity and robust features to ensure stable operation even in highly disturbed electromagnetic fields. By considering the unique features and application requirements of each MCU, engineers can make informed decisions to deploy the most suitable solutions in their designs.