NXP Semiconductors MC68302RC16C

Overview

MC68302RC16C from Freescale Semiconductor is a single-chip integrated multi-protocol processor featuring an MC68000/MC68008 microprocessor core, a dedicated RISC-based communications processor (CP), and system integration block (SIB). It operates at 16 MHz, integrates 1152 bytes of on-chip dual-port RAM, supports HDLC/SDLC, UART, Bisync, DDCMP, and Totally Transparent protocols via three full-duplex SCCs, and targets ISDN terminal adapters and data concentrators.

For engineers reviewing the MC68302RC16C datasheet, MC68302RC16C pinout, MC68302RC16C application, or MC68302RC16C equivalent, key selection considerations include its 16 MHz clock rating, triple SCC + dual SMC architecture, HCMOS 100-pin TQFP package, and support for concurrent protocol handling without CPU intervention.

Technical Context

The MC68302RC16C implements a tightly coupled dual-processor architecture: the MC68000 core handles general-purpose control and application logic, while the independent RISC-based communications processor manages serial protocol framing, DMA transfers, and physical layer interface timing. Its CP includes six serial DMA channels and supports up to eight frame buffers per SCC without CPU involvement.

It features a programmable system integration block with four chip-select lines, DRAM refresh controller, hardware watchdog, bus arbitration logic, and low-latency interrupt controller supporting two operation modes. The device provides parallel I/O ports with interrupt capability, three timers (including software watchdog), and on-chip clock generation with output clock signal.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68302RC16C is housed in a 100-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) package with 0.5 mm lead pitch, JEDEC MS-026AC compliant, and thermally rated for industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-protocol communications processor applications.

Compared with MC68LC302 and MC68EN302, the MC68302RC16C uniquely balances triple-SCC concurrency, dual SMC support for IDL/GCI, and 16 MHz deterministic performance in a compact 100-pin footprint-making it optimal for ISDN terminal adapters and serial-data concentrators where Ethernet or ultra-low power are not primary requirements.

Availability

MC68302RC16C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ISDN terminal adapters, data concentrators, and telecom line cards requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle industrial deployments.

Supply support for MC68302RC16C 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 automotive, industrial, and networking solutions.

The MC68302RC16C belongs to Freescale's integrated communications processor family, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability telecom infrastructure requiring concurrent multi-protocol serial processing without external co-processors.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68302RC16C?

The MC68302RC16C is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz. This speed is factory-trimmed and guaranteed across the industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). The device uses an external crystal or oscillator input at CLKIN, and its internal clock generator derives the core and peripheral clocks from this source. Operation above 16 MHz is not supported and may result in undefined behavior or timing violations in the MC68302RC16C's internal bus and serial controllers.

Does the MC68302RC16C include on-chip memory, and what type?

Yes, the MC68302RC16C integrates 1152 bytes of on-chip dual-port static RAM. This memory is accessible simultaneously by both the MC68000 core and the RISC communications processor, enabling efficient inter-processor communication and zero-wait-state buffer sharing. It is not cache-it is directly mapped into the processor's address space and used for protocol frame storage, descriptor tables, and shared control structures within the MC68302RC16C's architecture.

How many serial communication controllers does the MC68302RC16C support?

The MC68302RC16C supports three full-duplex Serial Communication Controllers (SCCs) and two Serial Management Controllers (SMCs). Each SCC is independently configurable for HDLC/SDLC, UART, Bisync, DDCMP, or Totally Transparent protocols. The SMCs provide dedicated support for Interchip Digital Link (IDL) and General Circuit Interface (GCI) physical layers. This configuration is fixed in the MC68302RC16C silicon and cannot be altered via software or configuration fuses.

Is the MC68302RC16C pin-compatible with other MC68302 derivatives like the MC68EN302?

No, the MC68302RC16C is not pin-compatible with the MC68EN302. While both belong to the same product family, the MC68EN302 uses a 144-pin TQFP package with additional signals for Ethernet MAC, DRAM control, and parity-requiring a different PCB layout. The MC68302RC16C uses a 100-pin TQFP package. Pin compatibility is confirmed only with the MC68QH302 (also 144-pin) and not with the MC68302RC16C.

What development tools and documentation are available for the MC68302RC16C?

Freescale provided official user's manuals (e.g., MC68302UM), application notes covering SCC initialization and HDLC framing, and sample C/assembly code for bootloaders and protocol stacks. Third-party tools included Green Hills MULTI IDE, Diab C compiler, and Lauterbach TRACE32 debuggers with MC68302RC16C-specific support. All documentation remains archived on NXP's legacy product site under the MC68302RC16C part number.