NXP Semiconductors MC33696FCER2
- Part No.:
- MC33696FCER2
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MC33696FCER2.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX ISM<1GHZ 32QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MC33696FCER2 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a highly integrated UHF transceiver IC for low-voltage ISM band wireless data transfer. It implements a fractional-N PLL, embedded data manager with Manchester decoding, analog/digital RSSI, and automatic configuration switching between two register banks - enabling autonomous wake-up and protocol handling without MCU intervention in remote sensor or keyless entry systems.
For engineers reviewing the MC33696FCER2 datasheet, MC33696FCER2 pinout, MC33696FCER2 application, or MC33696FCER2 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 304–915 MHz multi-band support, 2.1–3.6 V / 5 V dual-supply operation, –106.5 dBm FSK sensitivity, 20 kbps max data rate, and QFN32 package with SPI-controlled RF switch output (SWITCH pin) for antenna diversity or Tx/Rx isolation.
Technical Context
The MC33696FCER2 uses a superheterodyne receiver architecture with high-side injection I/Q mixer, integrated polyphase image-reject filter, and 380 kHz IF bandwidth tuned via AFC referenced to the crystal oscillator. Its transmitter employs a single-ended PA with programmable output power up to +7.25 dBm and FSK modulation achieved by direct PLL frequency shifting.
Operation is governed by a finite-state machine clocked at Tdigclk (1.57–1.77 µs), supporting four exclusive modes: Configuration (via CONFB), Transmit, Receive (with DME=0 raw mode or DME=1 Manchester-managed mode), and Standby/LVD. The strobe oscillator enables periodic wake-up with <1 mA RX current at 1:10 duty ratio, while configuration bank switching allows rapid re-tuning between two preloaded channel/data-rate settings.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency Bands | 304, 315, 426, 434, 868, and 915 MHz ISM bands - supports global short-range radio applications without hardware change |
| Sensitivity (FSK) | –108 dBm at 2.4 kbps - enables reliable reception in low-SNR environments such as automotive key fobs or industrial telemetry |
| Max Data Rate | 20 kbps with Manchester coding - sufficient for secure rolling-code transmission and sensor telemetry frames |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.1–3.6 V or 5 V on VCCIN - accommodates both coin-cell (3 V) and board-rail (5 V) power domains |
| Current Consumption (RX) | 10.3 mA active; <1 mA with strobe ratio = 1/10 - extends battery life in intermittent-monitoring applications |
| PLL Frequency Step | 6 kHz - enables fine-grained channel spacing and robust frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) implementation |
| Output Power (TX) | +7.25 dBm maximum, 4-step programmable - balances range vs. regulatory compliance and EMI in compact enclosures |
Pinout & Package
MC33696FCER2 is housed in a 5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch QFN32 package with exposed thermal pad (EP). Pin 1 is marked by dot; pins are numbered counter-clockwise. GND connections (pins 4, 6, 8, 16, 17, 25, 29, 32) must be individually decoupled per RF/analog/digital domain requirements.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RSSIOUT (1) | Analog RSSI output | Provides continuous 0–1.2 V voltage proportional to received signal strength - used for link quality monitoring or adaptive threshold setting |
| RFIN (3) | RF input | 50 Ω single-ended input for antenna or filter network - requires external matching for optimal noise figure across bands |
| RFOUT (7) | RF output | Single-ended 50 Ω output driving external PA or antenna switch - limited to ≤3.6 V bias; VCCPA must be regulated |
| SWITCH (31) | RF switch control | CMOS-level output toggling on Tx/Rx transition - directly drives PIN diode or GaAs switch for antenna path isolation |
| CONFB (20) | Configuration mode select | Active-low pin forcing state machine into SPI configuration mode regardless of current state - enables safe register reprogramming |
| STROBE (28) | Wake-up control | Accepts external clock or connects to capacitor for internal strobe oscillator - determines RX duty cycle and ultra-low-power timing granularity |
| MOSI/MISO/SCLK/SEB (21–24) | SPI interface | Standard 4-wire SPI (CPOL=0, CPHA=1) - SEB enables bus sharing; MISO is output only in configuration mode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable dual-register-bank switching | Enables instant reconfiguration between two independent channel/data-rate/modulation settings without MCU involvement - critical for multi-zone access control or frequency-agile sensors |
| Embedded Manchester data manager (DME=1) | Performs clock recovery, ID/header recognition, and EOM detection on-chip - reduces MCU firmware overhead and eliminates need for external decoder logic |
| Dual-supply architecture (VCCIN/VCC2IN/VCCDIG) | Separates digital (1.5 V), RF/analog (2.1–2.7 V), and main (2.1–3.6 V or 5 V) domains - minimizes supply coupling and improves SNR in mixed-signal operation |
| Strobe-oscillator–based ultra-low-power RX | Achieves <1 mA average current at 10% duty cycle - extends CR2032 battery life to >5 years in periodic sensor beacon applications |
| Integrated image-reject mixer + polyphase filter | Eliminates need for external image-reject filters - simplifies BOM and PCB layout while maintaining >55 dB image rejection across all supported bands |
Applications
| Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) | TPMS Sensor Transmitter |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Vehicle door lock/unlock command transmitted from handheld fob to car receiver. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC33696FCER2 acts as the complete OOK/FSK transceiver - generating modulated RF carrier, managing rolling-code encryption payload, and controlling external PA/antenna switch via SWITCH pin. Use Value: Integrated data manager validates ID/header before wake-up, reducing false triggers; programmable LNA gain adapts to proximity-based signal strength variation. |
Use Scenario: Tire pressure and temperature data broadcast from wheel-mounted sensor every 30–60 seconds. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC33696FCER2 operates in low-duty-cycle strobed RX mode during wake windows, then enters 260 nA standby - synchronized to vehicle receiver polling schedule. Use Value: Ultra-low quiescent current extends lithium primary cell life beyond 7 years; RSSIOUT enables on-the-fly transmit power adjustment to maintain link margin. |
| Industrial Wireless Sensor Node | Home Automation Remote Control |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity node reporting to gateway via 868 MHz sub-GHz mesh. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC33696FCER2 serves as bidirectional transceiver - receiving channel-hopping commands and transmitting encrypted sensor payloads using FSK at 9.6 kbps. Use Value: 6 kHz PLL step enables precise FHSS channel selection; dual register banks allow seamless switching between upstream (to gateway) and downstream (from coordinator) configurations. |
Use Scenario: IR-to-RF universal remote converting button presses into 433.92 MHz OOK bursts for legacy AC/lighting control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC33696FCER2 functions as TX-only transceiver - accepting UART/parallel data from microcontroller and generating compliant OOK waveforms with controlled rise/fall times. Use Value: Programmable output power (–10 to +7.25 dBm) ensures regulatory compliance across regions; built-in AGC prevents overdrive distortion in varying supply conditions. |
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 sensitivity (–126 dBm @ 1.2 kbps), integrated DC-DC converter, but no embedded Manchester decoder or dual-bank switching | Requires external MCU for frame parsing and protocol handling; better suited for proprietary low-data-rate telemetry than RKE | Select when maximum link budget and power efficiency outweigh need for autonomous data management |
| AX5043-DQ48 | Wider frequency range (27–1050 MHz), lower RX current (8.5 mA), but lacks strobe oscillator and analog RSSI output | Needs external timing circuitry for low-power wake-up; digital RSSI only - less suitable for analog AGC or signal-strength feedback loops | Select when broad band coverage and minimal active current are prioritized over autonomous low-power scheduling |
Compared with Si4362-B1B-FMR and AX5043-DQ48, MC33696FCER2 uniquely integrates Manchester decoding, dual-register-bank switching, and strobe-oscillator wake-up - making it the only choice among the three for self-contained, MCU-light RKE and TPMS designs requiring zero-latency configuration changes and deterministic low-power timing.
Availability
MC33696FCER2 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, long-term lifecycle assurance, and automotive-grade reliability.
Supply support for MC33696FCER2 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 focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications - delivering high-integration RF, MCU, and security ICs with automotive qualification (AEC-Q100) and long-term support.
The MC33696FCER2 belongs to NXP's legacy Freescale UHF transceiver product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, battery-operated short-range wireless systems requiring autonomous protocol handling and ultra-low-power operation in harsh electromagnetic environments.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MC33696FCER2?
The MC33696FCER2 is rated for –40°C to +85°C ambient operation, as confirmed by its ordering code suffix "FCE" (per Freescale MC33696 Data Sheet Rev. 12, Table "Ordering Information"). This industrial-grade temperature range supports deployment in automotive cabin modules, outdoor sensors, and industrial control enclosures without derating.
Does MC33696FCER2 support both OOK and FSK modulation?
Yes, MC33696FCER2 natively supports both OOK and FSK modulation schemes. OOK is implemented via direct on/off keying of the RF carrier; FSK is achieved by programming the fractional-N PLL to shift frequency between two values - as specified in the "Features" section (page 2) and "Transmitter Functional Description" (page 8) of the MC33696 datasheet.
How does the configuration switching feature work on MC33696FCER2?
The MC33696FCER2 supports automatic switching between two independent register banks (A and B) via the CONFB pin and internal state machine. When enabled, this feature loads pre-programmed settings for frequency, data rate, modulation, and LNA gain - allowing instantaneous reconfiguration without MCU intervention, as detailed in Section 1.1 "Overview" and Figure 2 "State Machine Overview" of the datasheet.
What is the purpose of the SWITCH pin on MC33696FCER2?
The SWITCH pin (pin 31) is a CMOS-level output that toggles automatically during transitions between transmit and receive modes. It is designed to drive external RF switches (e.g., PIN diodes or GaAs SPDTs) for antenna path isolation or to enable/disable external power amplifiers/LNAs - ensuring clean Tx/Rx separation and preventing self-interference, as described in "Transmitter Functional Description" (page 8).
Can MC33696FCER2 operate from a 5 V supply?
Yes, MC33696FCER2 supports 5 V operation on the VCCIN pin, with appropriate decoupling and routing. In 5 V mode, VCCINOUT supplies regulated 3.3 V to analog/RF blocks, while VCCDIG powers the digital regulator producing 1.5 V on VCCDIG2 - as fully documented in "Power Supply" (page 6) and "Maximum Ratings" (page 5) of the MC33696 datasheet.
MC33696FCER2 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- 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)
MC33696FCER2 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC33696FCER2 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC33696FCER2 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 MC33696FCER2 reliable?
The price and inventory of MC33696FCER2 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC33696FCER2 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC33696FCER2?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC33696FCER2 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC33696FCER2?
MC33696FCER2 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC33696FCER2 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 MC33696FCER2?
For technical support, including MC33696FCER2 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC33696FCER2 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC33696FCER2 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC33696FCER2 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 MC33696FCER2 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC33696FCER2?
All MC33696FCER2 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC33696FCER2, 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 MC33696FCER2 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC33696FCER2:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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