Energy Micro opens online design forum for EFM32 Gecko microcontrollers

Energy Micro has launched the Lizard Lounge, a user community for technical discussions related to the company's energy-friendly microcontroller, the 32-bit ARM-based EFM32 Gecko MCU. Simultaneously, the company has announced a design competition for the best low-power design that uses its products. To join the design competition, participants only need to enter their ideas before 31 October 2012. To help realize their concepts, 40 participants will receive an EFM32 Cortex-M3 starter kit, and the person submitting the winning implementation receives first prize of $2000 for his or her energy-saving design. For all designers using the EFM32 Gecko, the community includes FAQs, technical how-to guides, and a user forum where both fellow EFM32 users and Energy Micro's own technical experts contribute. Community members also get early access to better versions of new tools and software. EFM32 ARM-based devices come with Flash memory configurations up to 1024 kB with the option of embedded USB connectivity, direct drive TFT, EBI, and CPU speeds up to 48 MHz. Depending on the version, MCUs are offered with AES encryption, pulse counter, low energy UARTs and autonomous sensor interface, and on-chip operational amplifiers. Package options range from small QFN24 to large BGA120. Energy Micro Lizard Lounge