Published On Jun 16, 2025
#TIPartner
In this episode of Electromaker Educator, Robin builds what might be the world's smallest ARM-based line-following robot — powered by Texas Instruments’ MSPM0C1104, the tiniest MCU we’ve ever tested. With an ARM Cortex M0+ core, 16KB flash, 12-bit ADC, and a ridiculous price of just 16 cents per chip (in bulk), this MCU is perfect for mass production and maker projects.
Robin walks through the full design process, from schematic to soldering, and reveals why TI's dev environment makes the MSPM0C1104 so accessible for beginners and pros. We also showcase how it compares to the STM8 series and why the built-in STM8 migration tool is a total game changer.
💡 Whether you're looking for a low-cost MCU for your next product or just want to see a tiny robot built with a rice-sized brain, this episode delivers tech insight, practical advice, and a healthy dose of humour (plus an original montage song!).
🎁 Want to win your own MSPM0C1104 Launchpad?
Leave a comment below and tell us what you'd build with this chip!
👉 LEARN MORE: ARM Cortex-M0+ MCUs
https://www.ti.com/microcontrollers-m...
📌 Chapters:
0:00 - Intro to the Electromaker Educator & Line Bot Project
0:39 - Why Microcontrollers Matter in Modern Design
1:25 - Challenges of Cost and Scale in Maker Projects
2:03 - Introducing the MSPM0C1104 & Devboard Overview
2:44 - Parts Required to Build the Robot
3:29 - MSPM0C1104 Specs & Packaging Options
4:39 - Price Breakdown & Mass Production Potential
5:36 - Dev Environment and Code Composer Studio
6:42 - GPIO Example & System Config Highlights
7:40 - Applying the Chip to the Line Following Robot
8:42 - How the IR Sensors Control the Robot
9:51 - Creative Power Supply with Capacitors
10:34 - Schematic Breakdown and Motor Control
11:17 - Building and Soldering Challenges
12:02 - Programming the Bot and Motor PWM Control
13:16 - Common ADC & Timer Coding Pitfalls
14:23 - Original Rap Recap & Timmy the Robot
15:40 - Why This Chip Crushes the Competition
17:28 - STM8 Migration Tool & Competitive Advantage
18:08 - Wrap-Up, Giveaway Info & Electromaker Store
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