NXP Semiconductors MC13237CHTR
- Part No.:
- MC13237CHTR
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MC13237CHTR.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 48MAPLGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,160
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Product details
Overview
MC13237CHTR from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee RF4CE-compliant system-on-chip integrating an HCS08QE 8-bit MCU, 128 KB flash, 8 KB RAM, and a 12-bit ADC. It delivers -94 dBm receive sensitivity, programmable TX output from -30 to +2 dBm, and 250 kb/s data rate. Designed for battery-powered remote controls including TV, Blu-ray, and set-top box remotes.
For engineers reviewing the MC13237CHTR datasheet, MC13237CHTR pinout, MC13237CHTR application, or MC13237CHTR equivalent, key selection criteria include integrated 12-bit ADC support, IEEE 802.15.4 MAC hardware acceleration, low-power RX/PPD modes (22 mA / 450 nA), RoHS-compliant 48-LGA package, and ZigBee RF4CE protocol stack compatibility via BeeStack Consumer.
Technical Context
The MC13237CHTR implements a fully compliant IEEE 802.15.4 PHY/MAC transceiver with 16 ISM band channels, 250 kb/s O-QPSK modulation, and hardware AES-128/CCM encryption. Its HCS08QE core runs at up to 32 MHz CPU clock (16 MHz bus), supporting seven addressing modes and fast multiply/divide instructions.
On-chip peripherals include a carrier modulator timer (CMT) for IR remote generation, UART, SPI, I²C, 12-bit ADC (MC13237-specific), and keyboard interface supporting up to 12×12 matrix wake-up. Power management includes multiple sleep modes, onboard 1 kHz oscillator, and optional 32.768 kHz crystal timing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RF Standard | IEEE 802.15.4-2006 compliant 2.4 GHz transceiver with O-QPSK modulation |
| Data Rate | 250 kb/s - enables low-latency remote control command transmission |
| RX Sensitivity | -94 dBm @ 1% PER (20-byte packets) - ensures reliable link budget in consumer environments |
| TX Output Range | -30 dBm to +2 dBm (typical) - programmable for range vs. power trade-off |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit - supports precise analog sensor input (e.g., battery voltage, temperature) |
| Memory | 128 KB flash / 8 KB SRAM - sufficient for ZigBee RF4CE stack + application firmware |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8–3.6 V - compatible with single-cell Li-ion or alkaline battery operation |
| Operating Temp | -40 °C to +85 °C - qualified for residential and industrial remote control enclosures |
Pinout & Package
MC13237CHTR uses a RoHS-compliant 7 mm × 7 mm, 48-pin Land Grid Array (48-LGA) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignment is defined per Freescale Document Number MC1323XFS REV 3.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDDA/VDDD | Analog/Digital Power Supply | Separate 1.8–3.6 V supplies enable noise isolation for ADC and RF sections |
| VSSA/VSSD | Analog/Digital Ground | Dedicated ground planes minimize coupling between RF, analog, and digital domains |
| ANT | RF Transceiver Antenna Interface | Differential RF port routed through integrated balun and TX/RX switch |
| XTAL1/XTAL2 | 32 MHz Crystal Oscillator Inputs | Supports high-accuracy timing for IEEE 802.15.4 symbol clock and MAC timing |
| RTC_XTAL1/RTC_XTAL2 | 32.768 kHz Crystal Inputs | Optional low-power real-time clock source for wake-up timer and sleep scheduling |
| ADC0–ADC7 | Analog Input Channels | Eight dedicated pins for 12-bit ADC - used for battery monitoring, ambient sensing |
| KBI0–KBI7 | Keyboard Interrupt Inputs | Supports matrix scanning of up to 12×12 keypad; wakes device from PPD mode |
| SCI_TX/SCI_RX | UART Serial Interface | Full-duplex non-return-to-zero format for host MCU communication or debug logging |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ZigBee RF4CE Stack Support | Pre-integrated BeeStack Consumer software enables certified remote control profile implementation without custom MAC development |
| Hardware MAC Accelerator | Dedicated sequencer and DMA offload IEEE 802.15.4 frame handling, reducing CPU load and power consumption |
| AES-128/CCM Encryption Engine | On-die cryptographic accelerator enables secure pairing and encrypted command transmission in RF4CE networks |
| IR Carrier Modulator Timer (CMT) | Integrated IR signal generator eliminates external IR LED driver IC in dual-mode (RF+IR) remotes |
| Low-Power PPD Mode | 22 mA active RX current with programmable packet detection - extends battery life in always-listening remote use cases |
| Wake-Up Sources | Multiple options: KBI matrix scan, RTC alarm, SCI activity, or CMT event - enables responsive yet ultra-low-power operation |
Applications
| Television Remote Control | Smart Home Access Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Two-way RF remote for smart TVs with voice command feedback and battery telemetry. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary SoC executing ZigBee RF4CE stack, managing IR fallback, and digitizing battery voltage via 12-bit ADC. Use Value: Integrated ADC and RF/IR coexistence reduce BOM count by two ICs versus discrete solutions. | Use Scenario: Wireless door lock controller with tamper detection and low-battery alert. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central node running secure RF4CE network layer, sampling door sensor and battery via ADC, waking on KBI or RTC. Use Value: Hardware AES engine ensures encrypted lock/unlock commands; 450 nA deep-sleep current enables >2-year battery life. |
| Set-Top Box Remote Control | Fitness Monitoring Remote |
Use Scenario: Compact remote with navigation keys, backlight control, and status LEDs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCU + transceiver + ADC + CMT all in one die - handles key scan, LED PWM, IR blaster, and RF transmission. Use Value: Eliminates need for separate microcontroller, RF transceiver, and IR driver, cutting PCB area by ~35%. | Use Scenario: Wearable-compatible remote for wireless fitness equipment pairing and calibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power endpoint node acquiring sensor data (via ADC), encrypting, and transmitting over RF4CE mesh. Use Value: 12-bit ADC resolution supports accurate analog biometric signal conditioning before RF transmission. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee RF4CE applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| EM3581-RTR | ARM Cortex-M3 core, 256 KB flash, no integrated ADC, higher TX power (+5 dBm) | Lacks on-die 12-bit ADC; requires external analog front-end for battery monitoring | Select when higher processing headroom or larger firmware footprint is needed, but accept added BOM cost for ADC functionality |
| CC2530F256RHAT | 8051 core, 256 KB flash, 8 KB RAM, integrated 12-bit ADC, but no CMT for IR generation | Requires external IR driver circuitry; lacks hardware IR carrier modulation timer | Choose for pure RF4CE applications without IR fallback; avoid if dual-mode (RF+IR) remote design is required |
Compared with EM3581-RTR and CC2530F256RHAT, the MC13237CHTR uniquely integrates 12-bit ADC, IR carrier modulator timer, and ZigBee RF4CE-optimized BeeStack Consumer software - enabling single-chip remote control designs with minimal external components and certified interoperability.
Availability
MC13237CHTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for television remote control, smart home access control, and set-top box remote control applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MC13237CHTR 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
NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader delivering secure, connected, and intelligent solutions for automotive, industrial, IoT, and mobile applications.
The MC13237CHTR belongs to NXP's legacy MC1323x ZigBee RF4CE SoC family, engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, cost-sensitive wireless remote controls and human interface devices in consumer electronics.
FAQ
What is the primary wireless standard supported by the MC13237CHTR?
The MC13237CHTR implements a fully compliant IEEE 802.15.4-2006 2.4 GHz transceiver with O-QPSK modulation and 250 kb/s data rate. It is optimized for ZigBee RF4CE protocol stack execution via NXP's BeeStack Consumer software, making it purpose-built for certified two-way remote control applications such as TV and set-top box remotes.
Does the MC13237CHTR include an analog-to-digital converter?
Yes, the MC13237CHTR integrates a 12-bit ADC with eight dedicated input channels (ADC0–ADC7). This peripheral is exclusive to the MC13237 variant (not present in MC13234) and is commonly used for battery voltage monitoring, ambient temperature sensing, or other analog signal acquisition in remote control and smart home endpoints.
What package type and dimensions does the MC13237CHTR use?
The MC13237CHTR is housed in a RoHS-compliant 7 mm × 7 mm, 48-pin Land Grid Array (48-LGA) package with an exposed thermal pad. This compact LGA footprint supports high-density PCB layouts typical in space-constrained remote control designs and provides efficient thermal dissipation during RF transmit bursts.
How does the MC13237CHTR support infrared (IR) functionality alongside RF?
The MC13237CHTR includes a dedicated Carrier Modulator Timer (CMT) module that generates, modulates, and transmits standard IR carrier signals (e.g., 38 kHz). This eliminates the need for external IR driver ICs in dual-mode (RF + IR) remotes, allowing seamless fallback to IR when RF is unavailable or for legacy device compatibility.
What low-power operating modes are available on the MC13237CHTR?
The MC13237CHTR offers multiple low-power states including PPD (Packet Pending Detection) mode drawing 22 mA during active RX listening, and deep-sleep modes down to 450 nA. Wake-up sources include keyboard interrupt matrix scan, RTC alarm, SCI activity, and CMT events - enabling multi-year battery life in remote control applications.
MC13237CHTR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4
- Protocol:
- Zigbee®
- Modulation:
- O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 250kbps
- Power - Output:
- 2dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -93dBm
- Memory Size:
- 128kB Flash, 8kB RAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- I2C, SPI, UART
- GPIO:
- 28
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 26.8mA ~ 35mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 21.3mA ~ 28.2mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-MAPLGA (7x7)
MC13237CHTR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC13237CHTR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC13237CHTR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MC13237CHTR reliable?
The price and inventory of MC13237CHTR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC13237CHTR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC13237CHTR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC13237CHTR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC13237CHTR?
MC13237CHTR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC13237CHTR order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MC13237CHTR?
For technical support, including MC13237CHTR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC13237CHTR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC13237CHTR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC13237CHTR products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MC13237CHTR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC13237CHTR?
All MC13237CHTR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC13237CHTR, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MC13237CHTR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC13237CHTR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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