Renesas M38004E8SS

Overview

M38004E8SS from Renesas Electronics is an 8-bit CMOS single-chip microcomputer in the 3800 Group, featuring 32 KB mask ROM, 512-byte RAM, four 8-bit timers, UART or clock-synchronous serial I/O, and operation in single-chip mode at up to 10 MHz. It targets embedded control in industrial equipment, office automation devices, and consumer electronics requiring deterministic real-time response.

For engineers reviewing the M38004E8SS datasheet, M38004E8SS pinout, M38004E8SS application, or M38004E8SS equivalent, this page delivers verified package mapping (64-pin plastic QFP), confirmed memory architecture (32K mask ROM + 512B RAM), validated peripheral set (4× 8-bit timers, UART/SSI), and two documented alternative parts for migration or sourcing continuity.

Technical Context

The M38004E8SS implements the MELPS 740 CPU core with 16-bit address bus and 8-bit data bus, supporting both single-chip and memory expansion modes. It integrates a programmable watchdog timer, reset circuit with power-on detection, and clock generation via external crystal (XIN/XOUT) or ceramic resonator.

Interrupt handling supports 16 vector sources with priority encoding and automatic register stacking. The serial interface operates in full-duplex UART mode or synchronous master/slave mode with selectable baud rates and framing options - all configured via dedicated SFRs without external logic.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin plastic quad flat pack (64P6N-A), 14 mm × 14 mm body, 0.8 mm lead pitch, lead-free per RoHS.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit microcontroller applications.

Compared with M38004E8SS, M38003M6-XXXHP offers reduced memory at lower cost but identical timing and I/O structure, while M38007E8-XXXSP adds RAM and analog peripherals in a larger package - making M38004E8SS the optimal balance of memory, I/O count, and footprint for mid-complexity embedded controllers.

Availability

M38004E8SS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, office equipment, and home appliance designs requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant manufacturing.

Supply support for M38004E8SS 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

Renesas Electronics Corporation is a global semiconductor leader specializing in microcontrollers, analog, power, and SoC solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.

The 3800 Group belongs to Renesas' legacy 8-bit microcontroller portfolio designed for cost-sensitive, high-reliability embedded control in standard-grade applications such as office equipment and industrial machinery.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the M38004E8SS?

The M38004E8SS operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 10 MHz when using an external crystal or ceramic resonator connected to the XIN/XOUT pins. This timing specification is guaranteed across the full recommended operating voltage range (4.5 V to 5.5 V) and ambient temperature range (0 °C to +70 °C). The M38004E8SS does not support internal RC oscillation - clock generation requires external timing components.

Does the M38004E8SS include on-chip debug or programming interfaces?

No, the M38004E8SS does not feature on-chip debug circuitry or in-circuit programming capability. As a mask ROM device, its firmware is factory-programmed and immutable after manufacture. Development requires external EPROM emulators or OTP versions (e.g., M38004E8-XXXSP) for prototyping. The M38004E8SS itself supports only execution from fixed ROM and lacks JTAG, SWD, or bootloader interfaces.

What package type is used for the M38004E8SS?

The M38004E8SS is supplied in a 64-pin plastic quad flat pack (64P6N-A) with 0.8 mm lead pitch and 14 mm × 14 mm body dimensions. This RoHS-compliant package supports reflow soldering and is compatible with standard surface-mount assembly processes. Pin configuration matches other 64-pin members of the 3800 Group, enabling footprint reuse across variants like M38002M4 and M38003M6.

Can the M38004E8SS operate in memory expansion mode?

Yes, the M38004E8SS supports memory expansion mode via Port 0 and Port 2, enabling external program and data memory access using the 16-bit address bus and 8-bit data bus. In this mode, P0 functions as the multiplexed AD0–AD7 bus and P2 provides upper address bits A8–A15. However, most applications use single-chip mode to leverage the integrated 32 KB mask ROM and 512-byte RAM - avoiding external memory and simplifying design.

Is the M38004E8SS qualified for automotive or safety-critical applications?

No, the M38004E8SS is classified as a "Standard" quality grade device per Renesas documentation and is intended for non-safety-critical applications including office equipment, consumer electronics, and industrial controls. It is not qualified for automotive (AEC-Q100), medical life-support, aerospace, or nuclear applications. For such uses, Renesas offers separate high-reliability product lines with extended temperature ranges and enhanced screening.