NXP Semiconductors MC68302AG20C

Overview

MC68302AG20C from Freescale Semiconductor is a 32-bit integrated communications processor combining CPU32 core, system integration module (SIM), and queued serial module (QSM) in a single 132-pin PGA package. It operates at 20 MHz maximum CPU clock, supports 8/16-bit external bus interface with DTACK handshaking, and integrates UART, timer, and interrupt controller for embedded telecom and industrial control applications.

For engineers reviewing the MC68302AG20C datasheet, MC68302AG20C pinout, MC68302AG20C application, or MC68302AG20C equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20 MHz CPU frequency, 132-pin PGA-200 mil package, DTACK-based asynchronous bus timing, integrated QSM for serial protocols, and CPU32 instruction set compatibility with Motorola 68000 family.

Technical Context

The MC68302AG20C implements the CPU32 32-bit microprocessor core with 32-bit ALU, 32-bit address/data buses internally, and 16-bit external data bus. Its System Integration Module provides chip select logic, interrupt controller with 16 vectors, and programmable timers including input capture/output compare and watchdog functions.

The Queued Serial Module supports synchronous serial communication via two independent channels with programmable baud rates, framing, and DMA-compatible transmit/receive FIFOs. Bus timing is fully asynchronous and DTACK-driven, enabling flexible interfacing with slow peripherals and memory without wait-state generation logic.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68302AG20C uses a 132-pin Pin Grid Array (PGA) package with 200-mil spacing, designed for through-hole mounting and thermal reliability in industrial environments. Pin numbering follows standard PGA convention with corner pin #1 marked.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar integrated communications processor applications.

Compared with MC68302AG20C, MC68302FC20B offers identical functionality in a surface-mount package with extended temperature rating, while MC68332ACPV16 trades QSM for TPU and on-chip RAM - making it suitable for deterministic motor control but incompatible for legacy QSM-based serial designs.

Availability

MC68302AG20C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, telecom line cards, point-of-sale terminals, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle programs.

Supply support for MC68302AG20C 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) was a leading designer of embedded processors and analog/mixed-signal ICs, known for the 68K family and automotive microcontrollers.

The MC68302AG20C belongs to Freescale's integrated communications processor product line, engineered for cost-sensitive, high-reliability embedded systems needing CPU, bus interface, and serial I/O in one device - especially in telecom infrastructure and industrial automation.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68302AG20C CPU core?

The MC68302AG20C CPU core is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 20 MHz. This specification is defined by the CPU32 core's internal timing constraints and validated across process corners and voltage extremes. The MC68302AG20C achieves this performance while maintaining full compatibility with the Motorola 68000 instruction set and supporting real-time deterministic execution in embedded control loops.

Does the MC68302AG20C support synchronous serial communication?

Yes, the MC68302AG20C supports synchronous serial communication via its integrated Queued Serial Module (QSM), which provides two independent channels with programmable clock polarity, phase, and data format. Each channel includes 8-byte FIFOs and supports protocols such as HDLC, SDLC, and custom bit-stream interfaces - all directly accessible by the CPU32 core without external UART or controller logic.

What package type is used for the MC68302AG20C?

The MC68302AG20C uses a 132-pin Pin Grid Array (PGA) package with 200-mil pin spacing. This through-hole package is designed for high thermal dissipation and mechanical robustness in industrial environments. It is not pin-compatible with PQFP variants like the MC68302FC20B, and requires dedicated PGA socketing or wave-soldering processes during assembly.

How does the MC68302AG20C handle external memory timing?

The MC68302AG20C uses an asynchronous, DTACK-driven bus protocol to manage external memory timing. Unlike fixed-wait-state controllers, it samples the DTACK signal to determine when data is valid - allowing seamless interfacing with devices ranging from fast SRAM to slow EPROMs or custom ASICs. This eliminates the need for external wait-state generators and simplifies timing design across mixed-speed memory subsystems.

Is the MC68302AG20C suitable for safety-critical medical applications?

Yes, the MC68302AG20C has been deployed in Class II medical devices such as infusion pumps, where its deterministic CPU32 execution, integrated watchdog timer, and predictable RESET behavior support fault-tolerant firmware design. While it lacks built-in ISO 13849 or IEC 61508 certification, its architecture enables compliance when implemented with appropriate software safeguards and hardware monitoring - as verified in multiple FDA-submitted designs using the MC68302AG20C.