NXP Semiconductors KC56F8246MLF

Overview

KC56F8246MLF from Freescale Semiconductor is a 60 MHz digital signal controller (DSC) based on the 56800E core, integrating DSP performance and MCU functionality in a unified C-efficient architecture. It features 48 KB flash, 6 KB RAM, dual 12-bit ADCs (up to 8 channels each), eFlexPWM with 6 high-resolution (520 ps) NanoEdge channels, and operates from 3.0–3.6 V. It is used in motor control (BLDC/PMSM), solar inverters, and switched-mode power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the KC56F8246MLF datasheet, KC56F8246MLF pinout, KC56F8246MLF application, or KC56F8246MLF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 44-pin LQFP package, 60 MHz core frequency, dual ADC timing (600 ns conversion), eFlexPWM fault input support, and MSCAN absence-critical for industrial embedded control designs requiring deterministic real-time response and analog integration.

Technical Context

The KC56F8246MLF implements a modified Harvard architecture with three parallel execution units enabling up to six operations per instruction cycle. Its 56800E core delivers 60 MIPS at 60 MHz and supports hardware DO/REP loops, 32-bit shifter, and single-cycle 16×16 MAC-optimized for compact, efficient C-compiled control code.

Peripherals are interconnected via a programmable inter-module crossbar (XBAR), enabling flexible routing of ADC triggers, PWM fault inputs, timer signals, and comparator outputs. All peripherals-including eFlexPWM, ADCs, QSCI, QSPI, and I²C-can be independently disabled to reduce power, and any non-power/non-reset pin is configurable as GPIO with 5 V tolerance and programmable drive strength.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

KC56F8246MLF is housed in a 44-pin LQFP package (10 × 10 mm², 0.8 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are multiplexed across GPIO, analog inputs, PWM outputs, serial interfaces, and clock resources. Power pins include VDD, VDDA, VSS, VSSA, and VCAP; reset is active-low on Pin 2.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital signal controller applications.

Compared with KC56F8246MLF, MC56F8245MLF reduces analog acquisition capability and lacks input capture, while MC56F8247MLF expands memory, ADC depth, and I/O count-making KC56F8246MLF the optimal balance for cost-sensitive, medium-complexity motor and power conversion designs requiring precise timing and integrated analog front-end.

Availability

KC56F8246MLF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control, solar inverter, and switched-mode power supply applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and automotive-grade temperature operation (–40 °C to +105 °C).

Supply support for KC56F8246MLF includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors) is a global leader in embedded processing solutions, specializing in microcontrollers, digital signal processors, and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

KC56F8246MLF belongs to the MC56F824x family of digital signal controllers designed specifically for cost-effective, real-time control of power electronics-emphasizing integrated analog peripherals, deterministic PWM timing, and C-compiler efficiency for rapid development of motor drives and energy conversion systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum ADC sampling rate supported by KC56F8246MLF?

KC56F8246MLF supports a maximum ADC clock frequency of 10 MHz, enabling a minimum single conversion time of 600 ns (6 ADC clock cycles). With dual 12-bit ADCs operating in parallel scan mode, it achieves up to 1.67 MSPS aggregate sampling rate-sufficient for high-bandwidth current loop control in 20 kHz PMSM drives. The KC56F8246MLF datasheet specifies this under Section 7.25.

Does KC56F8246MLF include a CAN controller?

No, KC56F8246MLF does not include a Controller Area Network (CAN) module. Per Table 1 in the MC56F825x/MC56F824x Family Configuration document, the KC56F8246MLF variant has "0" listed under MSCAN. CAN functionality is only present in MC56F825x and MC56F8247 variants. Engineers requiring CAN must select an alternative part or add an external transceiver with software-managed protocol stack.

What package type and dimensions does KC56F8246MLF use?

KC56F8246MLF uses a 44-pin LQFP package measuring 10 mm × 10 mm with 0.8 mm lead pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This matches the mechanical outline in Section 10.1 of the MC56F825X Technical Data Sheet (Rev. 4). The "MLF" suffix explicitly denotes this 44LQFP variant, distinguishing it from 48LQFP and 64LQFP versions in the same family.

Can KC56F8246MLF operate from a 5 V supply?

No, KC56F8246MLF requires a 3.0–3.6 V supply for both core and I/O domains. While its GPIOs are 5 V tolerant (allowing safe interfacing with 5 V peripherals), applying 5 V to VDD or VDDA will exceed absolute maximum ratings and cause permanent damage. The on-chip regulator is designed for 3.3 V nominal input, and the device's electrical characteristics are only guaranteed within the 3.0–3.6 V operating range.

How many PWM channels with NanoEdge resolution does KC56F8246MLF support?

KC56F8246MLF supports six eFlexPWM channels with NanoEdge 520 ps resolution-specifically Channels 0–2 (each with A/B pair), as confirmed in Table 1 of the MC56F825x/MC56F824x Family Configuration. These channels enable sub-nanosecond edge placement for precise timing in high-efficiency motor drives and resonant converters, and all six are accessible in the 44-pin LQFP package.