General description
The LPC178x/7x is an ARM Cortex-M3 based microcontroller for embedded applications requiring a high level of integration and low power dissipation.
The ARM Cortex-M3 is a next generation core that offers better performance than the ARM7 at the same clock rate and other system enhancements such as modernized debug features and a higher level of support block integration. The ARM Cortex-M3 CPU incorporates a 3-stage pipeline and has a Harvard architecture with separate local instruction and data buses, as well as a third bus with slightly lower performance for peripherals. The ARM Cortex-M3 CPU also includes an internal prefetch unit that supports speculative branches.
The LPC178x/7x adds a specialized flash memory accelerator to accomplish optimal performance when executing code from flash. The LPC178x/7x operates at up to 120 MHz CPU frequency.

Applications
■ Communications:
   ◆ Point-of-sale terminals, web servers, multi-protocol bridges
■ Industrial/Medical:
   ◆ Automation controllers, application control, robotics control, HVAC, PLC, inverters, circuit breakers, medical scanning, security monitoring, motor drive, video intercom
■ Consumer/Appliance:
   ◆ Audio, MP3 decoders, alarm systems, displays, printers, scanners, small appliances, fitness equipment
■ Automotive:
   ◆ After-market, car alarms, GPS/fleet monitors