Exploring Popular Development Boards | 51 Microcontroller Development Boards

Common brands of 51 microcontroller development boards include STC (Holtek Technology), Puzhong Technology, Jinsantan Electronics, ZD Atom, Wildfire Electronics, Anfu Lai Electronics, and Tianxiang Electronics.

01

STC (Holtek Technology) Development Board

Holtek Semiconductor Inc. is a high-tech enterprise focused on integrated circuit design, software development, and system solution design. Its core business includes chip design, development, sales, and related technical services. Holtek provides high-performance microcontroller technology and has become a leading manufacturer and standard setter for the next generation of enhanced 8-bit microcontrollers.

1.1 Development Board Features

(1) Rich functionality and modular design

Holtek’s 51 microcontroller development boards typically adopt a modular design, with each functional module operating independently, making it easy for beginners to quickly familiarize themselves with hardware circuits. For example, the development board includes power management, reset circuits, crystal oscillator circuits, USB-to-serial modules, display modules (such as LCD1602 and LCD12864), button modules, communication interfaces (such as serial, I2C, SPI), etc. These modules can be freely combined for easy expansion and debugging.

(2) Strong compatibility

Holtek’s 51 microcontroller (such as STC89C52RC) is based on the Intel 8051 core, with instruction code fully compatible with traditional 8051 microcontrollers, while supporting ISP (In-System Programming) and IAP (In-Application Programming), allowing programs to be downloaded via serial without a dedicated programmer.

(3) High performance and low power consumption

Holtek’s microcontroller series (such as the STC15 series) adopts a pipelined design, running 8 to 12 times faster than traditional 8051, while also featuring low power consumption, suitable for applications requiring efficient processing capabilities.

(4) Rich peripheral interfaces

The development board typically integrates various peripheral interfaces, such as PWM, timers, ADC, comparators, serial, I2C, SPI, etc., supporting connections to various sensors and peripherals, such as infrared receiving/transmitting modules, temperature detection modules (DS18B20), buzzers, relay interfaces, etc., meeting the needs of different application scenarios.

(5) Easy to learn and use

The development board usually comes with detailed tutorials and example code to help users get started quickly. Additionally, the development board supports through-hole components, making soldering and debugging easier.

(6) Cost-effective

Holtek’s 51 microcontroller development boards are relatively inexpensive, making them suitable for teaching and research. For example, the STC89C52RC microcontroller features high performance and low cost, making it ideal for beginners.

(7) Strong anti-interference capability

Holtek’s microcontroller series (such as STC89C51/RC+RD series) has excellent anti-interference capabilities, suitable for applications in environments with strong electromagnetic interference, such as motor control.

(8) Multiple power supply options

The development board supports various power supply methods, including USB power, external 5V power, and dual power supply protection design, ensuring stable operation in different scenarios.

(9) Wide application fields

Holtek’s 51 microcontroller development boards are widely used in industrial control, data acquisition, smart instruments, mechatronics, home appliances, etc., significantly improving the automation level of production and life.

1.2 Common Development Board Models

1.2.1 Basic Entry Model

(1) STC89C52RC

Core Features:

Based on the traditional 8051 core, fully compatible with the Intel 8051 instruction set;

8KB Flash storage, 512B RAM;

Supports ISP (online programming), program download via serial directly;

Operating frequency: 0-40MHz.

Applicable Scenarios: Suitable for beginners learning the basics of the 51 microcontroller, such as GPIO control, timers, serial communication, etc.

(2) STC12C5A60S2

Core Features:

Enhanced 8051 core (1T mode), speed 8 to 12 times faster than traditional 8051;

60KB Flash storage, 1280B RAM;

Built-in ADC (8-channel 10-bit), PWM, SPI, and other peripherals;

Applicable Scenarios: Entry projects requiring higher performance, such as sensor data acquisition, simple motor control, etc.

1.2.2 High-Performance Model

(1) STC15F2K60S2

Core Features:

1T high-speed 8051 core, maximum frequency up to 35MHz;

60KB Flash storage, 2KB RAM;

Built-in high-precision RC oscillator (±1% temperature drift), hardware watchdog;

Supports PWM, ADC, comparators, etc.

Applicable Scenarios: Applications requiring high real-time performance, such as industrial control, smart home devices.

(2) STC8H8K64U

Core Features:

Flagship model of the STC8 series, 64KB Flash storage, 8KB RAM;

Supports USB direct download (no external CH340 chip required);

Rich peripherals: 12-bit ADC, DAC, hardware I2C/SPI/UART, etc.

Applicable Scenarios: Complex project development, such as USB communication devices, multi-sensor fusion systems.

1.2.3 Low-Power Model

STC15W408AS

Core Features:

Wide voltage operating range (2.4V~5.5V), supports low-power mode;

8KB Flash storage, 512B RAM;

Built-in high-precision RC oscillator.

Applicable Scenarios: Battery-powered devices, such as IoT terminals, portable instruments.

1.2.4 High Integration Model

STC32G12K128

Core Features:

32-bit enhanced 8051 core (compatible with traditional instruction set);

128KB Flash storage, 12KB RAM;

Supports hardware floating-point unit (FPU).

Applicable Scenarios: Scenarios requiring complex algorithms or large data processing, such as motor vector control, image processing.

1.2.5 Special Application Model

STC8A8K64D4

Core Features:

Built-in 4-channel high-current drive (can directly drive stepper motors);

64KB Flash storage, 8KB RAM.

Applicable Scenarios: Motor driving, robot control, and other high-current load applications.

02

Puzhong Development Board

Shenzhen Puzhong Technology Co., Ltd. mainly engages in the research and development of industrial automation control technology, including microcontroller embedded system technology, industrial control technology, power drive technology, and motion control technology. Shenzhen Puzhong Technology provides teaching instrument products, such as 51 development tools, ARM development tools, DSP/FPGA development boards, etc., serving the education sector.

2.1 Development Board Features

(1) High performance and multifunctionality: Puzhong Technology’s 51 microcontroller development boards adopt the Intel MCS-51 core, featuring high-performance processors that support high-speed data processing, meeting the needs of complex application scenarios. At the same time, the development boards support various storage options (such as Flash and RAM) and integrate various common interfaces (such as UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, etc.) for easy communication and control with external devices.

(2) Rich peripheral interfaces and expandability: The development boards are equipped with various peripheral modules, including LCD1602 displays, 12864 LCD screens, infrared receiving/transmitting modules, buzzers, temperature detection modules (DS18B20), relay/stepper motor interfaces, etc. These modules support users in conducting various functional experiments and development. Additionally, all IO ports are brought out for easy expansion of external circuits.

(3) Usability and learning support: Puzhong Technology’s development boards provide detailed user manuals and supporting materials, suitable for learning needs from beginner to advanced levels. For example, the HC6800-ES V2.0 development board’s teaching videos cover basic knowledge, programming languages, LED working principles, etc. Furthermore, the development boards support ISP download functionality, allowing program downloads without a professional programmer, greatly simplifying operations.

(4) Affordable and high cost-performance ratio: Puzhong Technology’s 51 microcontroller development boards are relatively inexpensive and offer free shipping and comprehensive after-sales service. This high cost-performance ratio makes them an ideal choice for learning and practice.

(5) Suitable for users of different levels: Puzhong Technology’s development boards are suitable for beginners and professional developers. For example, the STC89C52 series chips support ISP programming, making them suitable for newcomers, while dual-core or multi-core development boards meet more advanced application needs.

(6) Flexible hardware design: The development boards adopt a socket installation method, allowing users to directly download and program via USB-to-serial cables. Additionally, some development boards support a detachable design, enabling users to split modules as needed, saving time and costs.

(7) Wide application scenarios: Puzhong Technology’s development boards are widely used in smart home systems, IoT projects, embedded systems, etc. For example, in smart home projects, the development boards achieve environmental monitoring and automatic control functions, improving living comfort and energy efficiency.

2.2 Main Development Board Models

(1) HC6800-EM3 V3.0

Core Chip: STC89C52 (compatible with AT89S52)

Main Features:

Supports ISP online programming (direct program download via USB-to-serial);

Integrates 8 LED lights, 4 independent buttons, 8-digit display, and other basic peripherals;

Equipped with LCD1602 liquid crystal interface, DS18B20 temperature sensor interface, infrared receiving module;

Provides stepper motor and relay control interfaces.

Target Audience: Beginners for entry-level learning, suitable for basic experiments (such as GPIO control, interrupts, timers).

(2) HC6800-ES V2.0

Core Chip: STC89C52RC

Upgraded Features:

Increased 12864 LCD screen interface, matrix keyboard module;

Supports more communication protocols (UART, I2C, SPI);

Accompanied by detailed video tutorials.

Advantages: High cost-performance ratio, suitable for advanced learning (such as serial communication, sensor data acquisition).

(3) PZ-ISP (Automatic Download Type)

Core Chip: STC12C5A60S2 (1T high-speed 51 core)

Highlighted Features:

Supports automatic program download (no manual reset required);

Integrates ADC, PWM output functions;

Built-in EEPROM storage, suitable for data-saving projects.

Application Scenarios: Smart cars, simple oscilloscopes, and other experiments requiring high-speed processing.

(4) AZ Series (Multi-Function Expansion Type)

Representative Model: AZ-A6 (Dual-Core Version)

Core Chip: STC8 Series + STM32 Dual-Core (some models)

Highlights:

Dual-core design (51+ARM), supporting more complex multitasking;

Integrates Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module interfaces (external connection required);

Provides camera interface (OV7670), touch screen expansion slot.

Target Audience: Advanced developers or IoT project practitioners.

(5) Mini Version (Portable Type)

Model Example: PZ-51Mini

Features:

Compact size, retaining only core functions (USB power, basic IO ports);

Lower cost, suitable for secondary development or embedding into finished products.

Selection Suggestions:

Beginners: HC6800-EM3 V3.0 (full basic functions, low price).

Project Practice: HC6800-ES V2.0 or PZ-ISP (rich peripherals, complete tutorials).

Advanced Applications: AZ series dual-core version (strong expandability).

All models support Keil C programming and provide schematics, example source code, and after-sales technical support. Specific parameters can be referenced on the official website or the detailed descriptions on the purchase page.

03

Jinsantan Development Board

Qingdao Jinsantan Electronics Co., Ltd. is dedicated to the research, manufacturing, and sales of innovative products in multiple fields, including high-cost-performance logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and other series of virtual instrument products; as well as a teaching platform for microcontroller/embedded system training that integrates theory and practice, focusing on practical R&D skills.

3.1 Development Board Features

(1) Rich hardware resources

The Jinsantan 51 microcontroller development board is equipped with various peripheral circuit modules, including LEDs, digital tubes, buzzers, infrared receiving, temperature detection (DS18B20), crystal oscillators, reset circuits, USB-to-serial modules, 8-bit LED dot matrix, stepper motor interfaces, relay interfaces, matrix keys, LCD1602, and 12864 displays, etc. These modules support various functional experiments, such as LED driving, digital tube display, buzzer alarms, infrared remote control, temperature measurement, etc.

(2) Flexible expandability

The development board adopts a plug-in design, with all IO ports brought out, making it easy for users to expand or customize circuit connections as needed. Additionally, the development board supports Type-C power supply, offering strong compatibility, suitable for beginners and intermediate developers.

(3) Multi-functional experiment support

Over 100 projects based on the 51 microcontroller are provided, covering LED driving, digital tube display, buzzer alarms, AD/DA conversion, infrared remote control, stepper motor control, temperature and humidity detection, etc. These experimental projects help users quickly master microcontroller programming and application skills.

(4) Learning and teaching friendly

The development board comes with detailed tutorial materials, including C language source code, PDF tutorials, and accompanying experimental guides, suitable for beginners to learn step by step. Additionally, the Jinsantan development board provides free tutorial material downloads for self-study.

(5) Portability and practicality

The development board is of moderate size, making it easy to carry and use for learning. Its design supports USB power and external power supply, facilitating operation in different environments.

(6) High cost-performance ratio

The Jinsantan development board is moderately priced, ranging from 25 yuan to 2363.46 yuan, covering different levels of learning needs. Its powerful functions and rich resources make it an ideal choice for learning and practicing the 51 microcontroller.

(7) Modular design

The development board adopts a modular design, with each functional module operating independently, allowing beginners to quickly familiarize themselves with hardware circuits.

3.2 Main Development Board Models

KST-51 development board features and functions are as follows:

(1) Hardware design features

Based on the STC89C52 microcontroller, supports ISP download functionality, allowing program burning without a professional programmer, making it easy for users to learn and use.

The development board adopts an independent module design, with each functional module completely independent, facilitating beginners to quickly familiarize themselves with hardware circuits.

Provides USB-to-serial circuit, supporting RS485 interface, making it easy to communicate with computers or other devices.

Integrates various common peripheral interface modules, such as matrix keyboards, LED indicators, buzzers, infrared receiving modules, etc., suitable for various experimental needs.

(2) Functional modules

Includes basic modules such as reset circuits, crystal oscillator circuits, power management circuits;

Equipped with LCD12864 displays, digital tubes, buzzers, infrared receiving modules, stepper motor interfaces, etc., supporting rich experimental functions;

Provides AD/DA conversion modules, temperature detection modules, clock circuits, and other advanced functional modules, suitable for complex project development.

(3) Applicable range

Suitable for learning and developing 8-bit microcontroller applications, including embedded system design, sensor data acquisition, human-computer interaction, etc.

Suitable for beginners to quickly get started, as well as for users with a certain foundation to conduct in-depth research and expansion.

(4) Price and cost-performance ratio

Compared to other brands (such as Puzhong 51 microcontroller), the Jinsantan 51 microcontroller development board is slightly more expensive, but its hardware design focuses more on stability and expandability, and the accompanying book “Learning 51 Microcontroller Step by Step” helps with systematic learning.

(5) Other advantages

The development board supports various expansion interfaces, making it easy for users to connect sensors or other modules to meet different experimental needs.

Provides detailed schematics and tutorial materials, facilitating user learning and debugging.

04

ZD Atom Development Board

Guangzhou Xingyi Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. mainly involves embedded development boards, FPGA development boards, and related technical tutorials. ZD Atom focuses on providing support for embedded systems and hardware development, including STM32 series development boards, FPGA development boards, and related learning resources and tools.

4.1 Development Board Features

(1) Modular design: ZD Atom’s 51 microcontroller development boards adopt a modular design, with independent modules connected through stamp holes, making it easy to disassemble and reorganize. This design allows users to freely combine modules according to their needs, saving time and improving development efficiency.

(2) Rich hardware resources: The development board integrates various hardware resources, including LEDs, digital tubes, buzzers, memory, real-time clocks, and temperature measurement chips, with all IO ports brought out for easy expansion. Additionally, it supports USB power supply and external power supply, suitable for various application scenarios.

(3) Comprehensive and practical functionality: The development board not only includes microcontroller experiment boards, programmers, and simulators but also provides rich experimental content and tutorials to help users learn step by step.

(4) High cost-performance ratio: As a low-cost, low-power development tool, ZD Atom’s 51 microcontroller development board is suitable for beginners, while also applicable for professionals engaged in embedded system design and development.

(5) Strong expandability: The development board supports various peripheral interfaces, such as UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, etc., allowing connections to sensors, displays, storage modules, etc., providing more functional support for projects.

(6) Ease of use: The development board is designed to be simple and intuitive, making it easy for beginners to get started quickly. For example, the base board comes with a 3V battery to power the clock chip, preventing time from stopping; the power section of the core board is equipped with a self-resetting fuse to prevent accidental short circuits from causing damage.

(7) Teaching and practice integration: ZD Atom’s development boards are often used in teaching scenarios, providing complete hardware development conditions.

(8) Superior performance: Although based on the 51 microcontroller, its performance in some cases even surpasses that of higher-end microcontrollers like STM32.

4.2 Main Development Board Models

(1) ATK-89C52 Development Board

Core Chip: STC89C52RC (classic 8051 core)

Features:

Basic entry-level, suitable for 51 microcontroller beginners;

Supports Keil C51 development environment;

Rich peripherals: LEDs, buttons, digital tubes, buzzers, EEPROM, DS18B20 temperature sensor, etc.

(2) ATK-12C5A Development Board

Core Chip: STC12C5A60S2 (enhanced 8051, 1T instruction cycle)

Features:

Stronger performance (8 to 12 times faster than traditional 89C52);

Integrates ADC, PWM, hardware SPI/I²C, etc.;

Suitable for advanced learning or project development.

(3) ATK-USB-CDC Development Board

Core Chip: STC8H8K64U (supports USB direct download)

Features:

No serial chip (CH340), program download directly via USB;

Built-in USB-CDC virtual serial port function.

(4) Other compatible models

ZD Atom’s 51 development boards typically support various STC microcontrollers (such as STC15W4K58S4, STC8G1K08, etc.), allowing users to change core chips as needed.

Selection Suggestions

Beginners: Recommend ATK-89C52 (low cost, comprehensive materials).

Advanced Learning: Choose ATK-12C5A or STC8H8K64U (stronger performance, richer functions).

05

Wildfire Development Board

Dongguan Wildfire Electronics Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise focused on ARM embedded software and hardware development, dedicated to the research, production, and sales of embedded development boards, industrial control machines, IoT devices, etc. Its products cover core boards, complete boards, and peripheral modules of MCU series such as STM32, i.MX RT, i.MX6, AM335X.

5.1 Development Board Features

(1) Modular design: The development board adopts an independent module design, with each functional module operating independently, making it easy for beginners to get started and familiarize themselves with hardware circuits.

(2) Rich peripheral interfaces: The development board integrates various peripheral interfaces, including USB-to-serial, crystal oscillators, reset circuits, 8-bit LEDs, digital tubes, buzzers, infrared receiving/transmitting modules, temperature detection modules (such as DS18B20), ISP download interfaces, relay/stepper motor interfaces, LCD1602 and 12864 interfaces, etc. Additionally, it supports AD/DA conversion, clock control, IIC bus, TTL interfaces, light-sensitive/thermal-sensitive experimental modules, etc.

(3) Flexible expandability: The development board supports external expansion interfaces, such as a 40-pin external simulation header, which can be used as an independent hardware simulator for single-step debugging, breakpoint setting, and full-speed execution. Additionally, all IO ports are brought out for easy expansion of peripheral devices based on user needs.

(4) Multi-functional integration: The development board not only supports basic input and output functions but also integrates programmers, simulators, and experiment boards, making it suitable for teaching and learning. For example, the development board includes resources such as LEDs, digital tubes, buzzers, memory, real-time clocks, and temperature measurement chips, facilitating learners to conduct various experiments.

(5) Portability and ease of use: The development board is compact, making it easy to carry, and adopts a plug-in design that simplifies the soldering process. Additionally, the development board supports USB power supply and external power supply, facilitating use in different scenarios.

(6) Practical learning resources: The development board comes with a wealth of learning resources to help users quickly master microcontroller programming and applications.

(7) High cost-performance ratio: The development board offers rich functions and resources at a low cost, making it suitable for teaching and beginners.

(8) Open design: The development board supports open design, allowing users to freely combine circuits or connect external modules to achieve more diverse functions.

5.2 Main Development Board Models

(1) Wildfire 51 Entry-Level Development Board (Basic Version)

Core Chip: STC89C52RC (or compatible models).

Main Features:

Basic IO experiments (LED, buttons, digital tubes);

Serial communication (USB-to-TTL);

Timer/counter, interrupt system experiments;

Supports ISP download (no additional simulator required).

Target Audience: Microcontroller beginners, students.

(2) Wildfire 51 Enhanced Development Board

Core Chip: STC12C5A60S2 (1T high-speed 51 microcontroller).

Main Features:

Enhanced 51 core (speed 8 to 12 times faster than traditional 89C52);

Integrates ADC (analog-to-digital conversion), PWM output;

Supports more peripherals: EEPROM (24C02), DS18B20 temperature sensor, infrared remote control;

Expandable LCD1602/12864 display;

Applicable Scenarios: Advanced learning, course design, simple project development.

(3) Wildfire 51 Multi-Functional Comprehensive Development Board

Core Chip: STC15 series (such as STC15W4K58S4)

Main Features:

Rich peripherals: 4×4 matrix keyboard, OLED display interface, stepper motor/DC motor drive interface;

SPI/I2C bus experiments (such as AT24C02, DS1302 clock module);

Wireless module interfaces (NRF24L01, Bluetooth HC-05);

Supports hardware PWM, hardware SPI, and other advanced functions.

Applicable Scenarios: Electronic competitions, graduation projects, complex project prototype development.

(4) Wildfire 51 IoT Development Board

Core Chip: STC8 series (such as STC8H8K64U)

Main Features:

Built-in USB direct download (no serial chip required);

Supports Wi-Fi (ESP8266/ESP32), 4G module expansion;

Integrates environmental sensors (temperature and humidity, light detection);

Suitable for IoT application development.

Applicable Scenarios: Smart home, remote monitoring, and other IoT directions.

(5) Wildfire 51 Simulation Development Board

Core Chip: STC89C52 + Keil C51 simulation support.

Main Features:

Supports single-step debugging, breakpoint setting (via ULINK or STC-ISP tools);

Suitable for scenarios requiring precise code debugging.

Target Audience: Learners or engineers needing to debug complex programs.

Selection Suggestions:

Beginners: It is recommended to start with the entry-level (STC89C52) and upgrade after mastering the basics.

Project Development: Choose STC15 or STC8 series, with richer peripherals.

IoT Applications: Prioritize STC8H8K64U + Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module.

06

Anfu Lai Development Board

Wuhan Anfu Lai Electronics Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise providing microcontroller teaching products, microcontroller software development, and industrial control product customization. The company’s main business includes the R&D and sales of industrial control products, microcontroller learning boards, and measurement tools.

6.1 Development Board Features

(1) Rich and comprehensive functionality

Anfu Lai Electronics’ 51 microcontroller development board integrates various peripheral circuit modules, including power management, reset circuits, crystal oscillator circuits, USB-to-serial, infrared receiving and transmitting, temperature detection (DS18B20), ISP download interfaces, relay/stepper motor interfaces, LCD1602 and 12864 display modules, etc. Additionally, it supports AD/DA conversion, thermistor interfaces, light-sensitive resistor interfaces, LCD interfaces, matrix keyboards, buzzers, digital tubes, etc.

(2) Rich functional modules

(3) Strong compatibility

The development board supports STC and other 51 series microcontroller chips, such as AT89C51, AT89S52, etc., and can be compatible with various models of microcontroller chips, suitable for experiments and development with different needs. At the same time, its hardware design is highly open, allowing users to expand any peripheral modules as needed, such as temperature sensing modules, voice recording chip modules, etc.

(4) Powerful programming and debugging capabilities

The development board supports Keil software for microcontroller program debugging, enabling single-step debugging, breakpoint setting, and full-speed execution. Additionally, the development board supports downloading and debugging assembly language and C language programs, suitable for beginners to get started quickly.

(5) Flexible interfaces and communication capabilities

The development board provides various communication interfaces, including USB-to-RS232 serial, SPI, I2C, PWM, etc., facilitating data exchange with computers or other devices. Additionally, the integration of the USB interface allows the development board to be powered directly by the computer and communicate.

(6) Strong practicality

The development board is suitable for teaching, experiments, and actual project development, such as electronic piano simulation, relay control, buzzer sound, digital clock experiments, etc. Its compact design and independent functional modules make it easy for beginners to quickly familiarize themselves with hardware circuits.

(7) High cost-performance ratio and ease of use

The development board is inexpensive, making it suitable for use in universities and research institutions. Its modular design allows users to freely combine functional modules, simplifying the hardware connection process.

(8) Innovative design

The development board adopts a unique dual-row pin design, allowing users to change the circuit connections of onboard components at will, thus forming a minimal system or specific functional modules.

6.2 Main Development Board Models

(1) STC89C52RC Basic Development Board

Core Chip: STC89C52RC (compatible with AT89S52, etc.)

Main Features:

Supports ISP download (USB-to-serial);

Integrates LEDs, buttons, buzzers, digital tubes, and other basic peripherals;

Provides ADC/DAC interfaces (external modules required);

Supports LCD1602 and LCD12864 displays.

Suitable for 51 microcontroller entry-level learning.

(2) STC12C5A60S2 Enhanced Development Board

Core Chip: STC12C5A60S2 (1T high-speed 51 microcontroller)

Main Features:

Enhanced 51 core, running speed 8 to 12 times faster than traditional 89C52;

Integrates PWM, hardware SPI/I²C, ADC (8-channel 10-bit);

Supports more peripherals: stepper motor drive, infrared remote control, DS18B20 temperature sensor, etc.

Suitable for advanced learning and project development.

(3) STC15W4K32S4 High-Performance Development Board

Core Chip: STC15W4K32S4 (1T high-speed 51 microcontroller)

Main Features:

32KB Flash + 4KB RAM, stronger performance;

Supports hardware PWM (6 channels), hardware SPI/I²C/UART;

Integrates RTC (real-time clock), EEPROM storage.

Suitable for complex projects, such as smart home control, industrial monitoring, etc.

(4) STC8H8K64U Flagship Development Board

Core Chip: STC8H8K64U (ultra-high-speed 51 microcontroller)

Main Features:

64KB Flash + 8KB RAM, performance close to STM32F103;

USB direct download (no CH340 serial chip required);

Supports hardware USB CDC virtual serial port;

Integrates 12-bit ADC, DAC, hardware PWM, and other advanced peripherals.

Suitable for high-end embedded development.

(5) STC32G12K128 (32-bit enhanced 51 development board)

Core Chip: STC32G12K128 (based on 80251 instruction set)

Main Features:

32-bit core, 128KB Flash + 12KB RAM;

Supports hardware floating-point operations (FPU);

USB + CAN + LIN + Ethernet interfaces (some models).

Suitable for high-performance embedded systems.

07

Tianxiang Development Board

7.1 Development Board Features

(1) Based on STC89C52 microcontroller

The development board is centered around the STC89C52 microcontroller, which is a low-power, high-performance CMOS 8-bit microcontroller, compatible with AT89S51/52, and supports ISP online program downloading.

(2) Rich peripheral interfaces and functional modules

The development board integrates various experimental functional modules, including digital tubes, LED lights, RS-232 communication interfaces, buzzers, ADC/DAC chips, digital temperature sensors, I2C bus EEPROM chips, character LCD interfaces, graphic LCD interfaces, and keyboards, etc. Additionally, it supports USB-to-serial chips for data transmission and communication.

(3) 32 I/O port expansion capability

The development board provides 32 I/O ports, allowing users to freely expand and meet different experimental and project needs.

(4) Multiple downloading methods

Supports both USB and serial downloading methods, allowing users to choose the appropriate download interface based on their needs.

(5) Modular design and independent functionality

The development board adopts a modular design, with each functional module completely independent, facilitating beginners to quickly familiarize themselves with hardware circuits and learn.

(6) Rich supporting resources help users learn step by step from entry to proficiency.

(7) Wide applicability

This development board is suitable not only for teaching scenarios but also for self-study by electronic enthusiasts, making it an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate programmers.

(8) Portability and practicality

The development board is compact, making it easy to carry, and supports a direct plug-in design, facilitating use in different scenarios.

7.2 Main Development Board Models

(1) TX-1C Basic Version

Core Chip: STC89C52 (compatible with AT89S51/52)

Main Features:

Complete basic functions: LEDs, digital tubes, matrix keyboards, buzzers, EEPROM (24C02), temperature sensors (DS18B20), etc.;

Supports USB-to-serial downloading (CH340 chip), no additional tools required;

Provides 32 I/O expansion interfaces, suitable for basic experiments and entry-level learning.

Target Audience: Microcontroller beginners, course teaching.

(2) TX-2C Enhanced Version

Core Chip: STC12C5A60S2 (1T high-speed 51 microcontroller)

Main Features:

Performance upgrade: supports 1T instruction cycle (8 to 12 times faster than traditional 89C52);

Integrates ADC/DAC modules (PCF8591), infrared receiving, stepper motor drive interfaces;

Increased OLED/I2C interfaces, compatible with more sensor modules.

Advantages: Suitable for projects requiring high-speed processing or analog signal acquisition (such as PID control, data acquisition).

(3) TX-3E Multi-Functional Version

Core Chip: STC15W4K series (with PWM/PCA)

Main Features:

Rich peripherals: Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module interfaces, RFID card reading/writing, touch buttons;

Supports 4-channel PWM output, can directly drive servos or motors;

Built-in RTC (real-time clock, DS1302) and SPI Flash storage.

Applicable Scenarios: IoT (IoT) prototype development, advanced experiments in smart hardware.

(4) TX-4G Wireless Communication Version

Core Chip: STC8H8K64U (USB direct download)

Main Functions:

Integrates 4G (EC20 module), LoRa wireless communication interfaces;

Supports Type-C USB direct download and debugging;

Compatible with some Arduino expansion boards (via adapter interfaces).

Advantages: Rapid development of projects involving remote monitoring and wireless data transmission.

(5) TX-5A High-End Comprehensive Version

Core Chip: STC8A8K64D4 (64K Flash + 8K RAM)

Highlights:

Multi-bus expansion: SPI, I2C, UART, CAN bus interfaces;

Supports TFT color screen driving (320×240 resolution);

Built-in high-speed ADC (12-bit precision) and comparators.

Positioning: Industrial control, complex project development (such as HMI human-machine interaction).

08

Comparison of Different Brand Development Boards

(1) Holtek Technology (STC)

Holtek Technology is the world’s largest 8051 microcontroller design company, focusing on high-performance, low-power, and high-reliability microcontroller design.

Its product line is rich, including STC8H8K64U series, STC15F2K60S2 series, etc., with excellent anti-interference capabilities, supporting various functions such as 12-bit ADC, high-speed A/D conversion, dual serial ports, etc.

Holtek emphasizes independent research and development and super encryption technology to ensure chip security.

The development boards have a high cost-performance ratio, suitable for industrial control, home appliance control, and other fields.

(2) Puzhong Technology

Puzhong Technology’s microcontroller development boards are known for their low prices and high cost-performance ratio, suitable for budget-conscious beginners.

Their development boards have a high degree of functional integration and rich peripherals, such as LEDs, digital tubes, buttons, etc.

Puzhong Technology has received good user reviews, supports 7-day no-reason returns, and has a good service attitude.

However, its brand awareness is relatively low, and some users have expressed dissatisfaction with its after-sales service.

(3) Jinsantan Electronics

Jinsantan Electronics’ development boards are slightly more expensive, but their hardware design focuses on stability and expandability.

The accompanying book “Learning 51 Microcontroller Step by Step” is well-loved by users, suitable for systematic learning.

Compared to Puzhong Technology, Jinsantan Electronics places more emphasis on hardware quality and learning experience.

(4) ZD Atom

ZD Atom focuses on embedded learning kits, with powerful performance in its STM32 series development boards, suitable for project development.

ZD Atom’s development boards have excellent materials and color designs, facilitating circuit learning and troubleshooting.

Their tutorial style is engineer-oriented, with practical code, suitable for developers with a certain foundation.

(5) Wildfire Electronics

Wildfire Electronics’ tutorial style is engineer-oriented, with high code quality, suitable for project development.

Their product line covers STM32 and ARM series development boards, with performance superior to 51 microcontrollers.

Wildfire Electronics emphasizes practicality and code quality, suitable for users needing to quickly get started on projects.

(6) Anfu Lai Electronics

Anfu Lai Electronics focuses on engineer services, with high code quality, suitable for developers needing high-quality code.

Their after-sales service mainly relies on QQ groups and forums, suitable for users with frequent technical exchanges.

(7) Tianxiang Electronics

Tianxiang Electronics’ products typically have high cost-performance ratios and stability.

Summary Comparison:

Cost-performance ratio: Puzhong Technology and Tianxiang Electronics have lower prices, suitable for budget-conscious users; Jinsantan Electronics has moderate prices but excellent hardware design; ZD Atom and Wildfire Electronics have higher prices but powerful functions.

Hardware design: Jinsantan Electronics emphasizes stability and expandability; Puzhong Technology has high functional integration; Holtek Technology and ZD Atom excel in specific fields.

Learning support: Jinsantan Electronics’ books and tutorials are of high quality; ZD Atom and Wildfire Electronics’ tutorials are practical; Puzhong Technology is suitable for zero-based users.

Applicable scenarios: Holtek Technology is suitable for industrial control; Puzhong Technology is suitable for beginners; Jinsantan Electronics is suitable for systematic learning; ZD Atom and Wildfire Electronics are suitable for project development.

When choosing a development board, it is necessary to weigh specific needs (such as budget, learning goals, hardware requirements, etc.).

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