NXP Semiconductors MC33696FCE
- Part No.:
- MC33696FCE
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MC33696FCE.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX ISM<1GHZ 32QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,800
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Product details
Overview
MC33696FCE from Freescale Semiconductor is a highly integrated UHF transceiver for low-voltage ISM-band data transfer, supporting OOK/FSK modulation across 304–915 MHz bands, delivering –106.5 dBm RX sensitivity, up to 7.25 dBm TX output power, and programmable configuration switching between two register banks - deployed in remote keyless entry (RKE), tire pressure monitoring (TPMS), and industrial sensor telemetry.
For engineers reviewing the MC33696FCE datasheet, MC33696FCE pinout, MC33696FCE application, or MC33696FCE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, QFN32 package mapping, SPI-configurable PLL architecture, strobe-oscillator–enabled ultra-low-power RX mode (<1 mA at 1/10 duty), and real-world alternatives for automotive-grade sub-GHz RF system design.
Technical Context
The MC33696FCE implements a superheterodyne receiver with high-side injection I/Q mixer, integrated poly-phase image-reject filter, and 380 kHz IF bandwidth tuned via crystal-referenced AFC. Its fractional-N PLL achieves <30 µs toggle time for frequency hopping across six ISM bands.
Transmit functionality uses a single-ended PA with programmable output power steps and out-of-lock detection to suppress spurious emissions. The embedded data manager supports Manchester decoding, clock recovery, ID/header recognition, and EOM detection - all configurable via SPI without MCU intervention during bank-switching events.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency Bands | 304, 315, 426, 434, 868, and 915 MHz ISM bands - enables global regulatory compliance in RKE/TPMS systems |
| RX Sensitivity | –106.5 dBm (OOK), up to –108 dBm (FSK @ 2.4 kbps) - ensures reliable reception under weak-signal conditions |
| TX Output Power | Up to +7.25 dBm with 4-step programmable control - balances range vs. battery life in portable transmitters |
| Data Rate | 20 kbps max with Manchester coding - supports secure rolling-code protocols in automotive access systems |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.1 V to 3.6 V (3 V operation) or 4.5 V to 5.5 V (5 V operation) - accommodates both coin-cell and regulated rail designs |
| Strobe-Enabled RX Current | <1 mA at 1/10 duty cycle - extends battery life to >10 years in intermittent-sensing applications |
| PLL Frequency Step | 6 kHz resolution - enables precise channel spacing and fine-tuning for interference mitigation |
Pinout & Package
MC33696FCE is housed in a 5 mm × 5 mm, 32-pin QFN package with exposed thermal pad (QFN32), optimized for RF performance and compact PCB layout in automotive and industrial modules.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFIN | RF input port | Accepts antenna-coupled signal into LNA; requires external matching network for band-specific impedance |
| RFOUT | RF output port | Drives external PA or antenna directly; limited to ≤3.6 V bias per absolute maximum rating |
| VCC2RF / VCC2VCO | Dedicated analog supply rails | 2.1–2.7 V supplies for LNA/VCO blocks; decoupled via external 100 nF capacitor on VCC2OUT |
| STROBE | Wake-up control terminal | Enables automatic periodic RX activation via internal oscillator + external capacitor or MCU-driven gating |
| CONFB | Configuration mode selector | Pull-low forces SPI slave configuration mode regardless of current state - critical for safe register reprogramming |
| SWITCH | RF path control output | Automatically toggles between RX/TX states; drives external T/R switch or enables/disables external LNA/PA |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable dual-register bank switching | Enables seamless transition between two preloaded configurations (e.g., 315 MHz RKE + 434 MHz TPMS) without MCU involvement |
| Digital + analog RSSI outputs | RSSIOUT (analog voltage) and RSSIC (digital control input) support adaptive AGC and signal-strength–based protocol decisions |
| Embedded Manchester data manager | Performs clock recovery, ID/header validation, and EOM detection - offloads 100% of baseband processing from host MCU |
| Ultra-low-power standby mode | 260 nA quiescent current with registers retained - preserves security keys and channel settings during deep sleep |
| Crystal-referenced IF filter tuning | AFC locks IF center frequency to XTALIN/XTALOUT reference - maintains ±100 ppm selectivity over –40°C to +85°C |
Applications
| Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) | Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Vehicle door lock/unlock command transmission from fob to body controller using 315/434 MHz OOK. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-duplex-capable transceiver handling both TX burst and RX acknowledgment in same device; strobe oscillator enables wake-on-RF while minimizing average current. Use Value: Eliminates need for separate TX-only IC and reduces BOM count by integrating PLL, PA, LNA, and data manager - validated for AEC-Q100 Grade 2 (–40°C to +85°C). | Use Scenario: Battery-powered wheel module transmitting pressure/temperature data every 60 s via 434 MHz FSK. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-duty-cycle RX listener with programmable wakeup interval; embedded data manager validates header before waking MCU - cuts active time by >95%. Use Value: Achieves >10-year battery life via <1 mA strobed RX mode and 260 nA standby; RSSI-based link quality reporting improves diagnostic reliability. |
| Industrial Sensor Telemetry | Asset Tracking Beacon |
Use Scenario: Wireless temperature/humidity node in factory environment sending data hourly via 868 MHz FSK. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configurable multi-band transceiver supporting regional ISM allocations; dual-register banks allow field-upgradable frequency plans without firmware change. Use Value: Enables single hardware SKU for EU/US deployments; PLL agility supports dynamic channel selection to avoid congested bands. | Use Scenario: GPS-denied indoor logistics tag broadcasting location beacon every 5 s using 915 MHz OOK. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency TX-only node leveraging programmable PA power and fast PLL lock (<30 µs) for rapid channel-hopping spread spectrum. Use Value: Delivers +7.25 dBm output with <13.5 mA current - maximizes link margin while meeting FCC Part 15 radiated emission limits. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar UHF transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Si4362-B1B-FMR | Higher integration: includes TCXO buffer, DC-DC converter, and AES encryption engine; 10 dB better sensitivity (–118 dBm) | Targets secure IoT nodes requiring crypto acceleration and longer range; lacks strobe oscillator for autonomous wakeup | Choose when security and sensitivity outweigh cost and legacy compatibility |
| AX5043-DQ48 | Wider voltage range (1.8–3.6 V); lower RX current (8.5 mA); no integrated data manager - raw bitstream only | Suited for custom protocol stacks where MCU handles Manchester decoding; requires external AGC and clock recovery logic | Choose when full software control of PHY layer is required and BOM cost is constrained |
Compared with Si4362-B1B-FMR and AX5043-DQ48, the MC33696FCE uniquely combines autonomous configuration switching, embedded Manchester data management, and strobe-oscillator–driven ultra-low-power RX - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, MCU-light automotive RKE/TPMS systems requiring AEC-Q100 qualification and proven field reliability.
Availability
MC33696FCE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for remote keyless entry (RKE), tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), and industrial wireless sensor networks requiring stable component supply across automotive-grade temperature ranges (–40°C to +85°C).
Supply support for MC33696FCE 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 pioneer in automotive and industrial mixed-signal ICs, delivering robust, AEC-Q100–qualified solutions for safety-critical applications.
The MC33696FCE belongs to Freescale's legacy UHF transceiver product line, engineered specifically for low-power, high-reliability wireless links in automotive access and telemetry - emphasizing integrated RF front-end, autonomous digital processing, and extended temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range specified for the MC33696FCE?
The MC33696FCE is rated for –40°C to +85°C ambient operation, as confirmed in the ordering information table of the Rev. 12 datasheet. This grade qualifies it for automotive cabin and under-hood applications where thermal stability is critical. The MC33696FCE shares this specification with the MC33696FJE (LQFP variant), and both are distinct from the –20°C to +85°C variants (FCAE/FJAE). No derating or external compensation is required within this range.
Does the MC33696FCE support both OOK and FSK modulation schemes?
Yes, the MC33696FCE natively supports both OOK and FSK modulation. OOK is implemented via on/off keying of the RF carrier, while FSK is achieved by programming the fractional-N PLL to shift frequency - eliminating need for external modulators. The datasheet confirms 20 kbps maximum data rate with Manchester coding for both schemes, and sensitivity is specified separately: –106.5 dBm (OOK) and up to –108 dBm (FSK @ 2.4 kbps).
How does the configuration switching feature work in the MC33696FCE?
The MC33696FCE supports automatic switching between two independent register banks (A and B) without MCU intervention. This is triggered either by the strobe oscillator wakeup event or by asserting the CONFB pin. Each bank stores complete configurations - including frequency, data rate, modulation type, and data manager settings - enabling rapid adaptation between use cases like RKE (315 MHz) and TPMS (434 MHz) on the same hardware platform.
What is the purpose of the STROBE pin on the MC33696FCE?
The STROBE pin on the MC33696FCE controls periodic receiver activation to minimize average current. When configured with an external capacitor, it enables the internal strobe oscillator to autonomously wake the RX chain at user-defined intervals - reducing RX current to <1 mA at 1/10 duty cycle. Alternatively, it accepts MCU-driven high/low signals for deterministic wakeup timing. The pin must remain high during SPI access to prevent unintended standby entry.
Is the MC33696FCE pin-compatible with other packages in the same family?
No, the MC33696FCE (QFN32) is not pin-compatible with the MC33696FJE (LQFP32), despite identical pin count and function mapping. The datasheet shows distinct mechanical drawings and land patterns: QFN32 uses a 5 mm × 5 mm body with exposed thermal pad and perimeter leads, while LQFP32 uses a 7 mm × 7 mm body with gull-wing leads. Layout redesign is required when substituting between these packages, though register-level firmware remains identical.
MC33696FCE Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Not For New Designs
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx Only
- RF Family/Standard:
- General ISM < 1GHz
- Protocol:
- -
- Modulation:
- FSK, OOK
- Frequency:
- 290MHz ~ 340MHz, 424MHz ~ 510MHz, 862MHz ~ 1.02GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 22.6kbps
- Power - Output:
- 7.25dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -106.5dBm
- Memory Size:
- -
- Serial Interfaces:
- SPI
- GPIO:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 10.3mA ~ 24mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 6.1mA ~ 13.5mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-QFN-EP (5x5)
MC33696FCE FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC33696FCE through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC33696FCE 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 MC33696FCE reliable?
The price and inventory of MC33696FCE are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC33696FCE is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC33696FCE?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC33696FCE transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC33696FCE?
MC33696FCE orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC33696FCE 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 MC33696FCE?
For technical support, including MC33696FCE datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC33696FCE requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC33696FCE is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC33696FCE 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 MC33696FCE meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC33696FCE?
All MC33696FCE units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC33696FCE, 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 MC33696FCE part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC33696FCE:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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