NXP Semiconductors MC68360CVR25L

Overview

MC68360CVR25L from Freescale Semiconductor is a 32-bit integrated microcontroller with embedded CPU32+ core and Communications Processor Module (CPM), designed for high-flexibility communications controller applications. It operates at 25 MHz, supports up to 32-bit data bus width, integrates four SCCs, two SMCs, one SPI, and features 2.5 KB dual-port RAM for CPM buffer descriptor management.

For engineers reviewing the MC68360CVR25L datasheet, MC68360CVR25L pinout, MC68360CVR25L application, or MC68360CVR25L equivalent, key selection considerations include its quad-SCC architecture for HDLC/SDLC at 2 Mbps per channel, TDM time-slot assigner support for ISDN/T1/CEPT, and slave-mode operation enabling MC68040 companion system integration.

Technical Context

The MC68360CVR25L implements a modular architecture with three core subsystems: CPU32+ core (4.5 MIPS @ 25 MHz), System Integration Module (SIM60) with clock synthesizer and IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and Communications Processor Module (CPM) with RISC controller and 224 buffer descriptors. Its intermodule bus (IMB) is fully 32-bit, distinguishing it from earlier M68300-family members.

It supports dynamic bus sizing (8/16/32-bit), bootable from 8-/16-/32-bit memory via dedicated chip select, and includes dual independent DMAs with 32-bit internal/external transfers, auto-buffer chaining, and efficient packing logic - all coordinated by the CPM without CPU intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68360CVR25L is housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) with 20-mil pitch, compliant with JEDEC MS-026. Pin functions are multiplexed across 14 serial I/O groups, 32-bit address/data bus, and dedicated SIM60 control signals including RAS/CAS/WE for DRAM interfacing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC68EN360RC25, MC68360CVR25L trades integrated Ethernet PHY for broader serial flexibility and PQFP packaging; compared with MC68340RC25, it delivers full QUICC CPM capabilities essential for HDLC/TDM systems - making it the only viable option for multi-protocol telecom edge devices requiring deterministic serial offload.

Availability

MC68360CVR25L is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom access nodes, industrial protocol gateways, MC68040 companion systems, and legacy network terminals requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial temperature support.

Supply support for MC68360CVR25L 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 fabless semiconductor company specializing in embedded processing, connectivity, and analog solutions for automotive, industrial, and networking markets.

The MC68360CVR25L belongs to the QUICC™ family - a line of integrated communications controllers designed specifically for deterministic, multi-protocol serial offload in telecom infrastructure, industrial gateways, and legacy system modernization.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68360CVR25L?

The MC68360CVR25L is rated for operation up to 25 MHz across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). This frequency enables the CPU32+ core to deliver approximately 4.5 MIPS and supports full-rate HDLC/SDLC communication at 2 Mbps on all four SCC channels simultaneously. The device uses a complete static design, allowing operation at 0 MHz for low-power stop modes.

Does the MC68360CVR25L support Ethernet connectivity?

The MC68360CVR25L does not integrate an Ethernet PHY; however, SCC1 can be configured for IEEE 802.3-compliant Ethernet MAC-layer operation when paired with an external transceiver such as the MC68160 EEST. Native Ethernet PHY support is exclusive to the MC68EN360 variant - the "EN" suffix denotes Ethernet-enabled silicon. MC68360CVR25L retains full HDLC, UART, and TDM capabilities without Ethernet hardware.

How many serial communication channels does the MC68360CVR25L provide?

The MC68360CVR25L provides seven serial channels: four Serial Communication Controllers (SCCs), two Serial Management Controllers (SMCs), and one Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI). Each SCC supports HDLC/SDLC, UART, BISYNC, and transparent modes; each SMC supports UART and transparent operation plus GCI/TDM interfacing; the SPI supports master/slave multimaster operation.

Is the MC68360CVR25L pin-compatible with the MC68302?

No, the MC68360CVR25L is not pin-compatible with the MC68302. It uses a 240-pin PQFP package with 20-mil pitch, whereas the MC68302 uses a 132-pin package with 25-mil pitch. Hardware redesign is required for migration, though software compatibility is preserved for CPU32+ instructions and CPM buffer descriptor structures - simplifying firmware porting despite physical incompatibility.

What memory interfaces does the MC68360CVR25L support?

The MC68360CVR25L supports SRAM, DRAM, EPROM, and Flash EPROM via a flexible external bus interface. It provides up to 32 address lines, four CAS/WE lines, one OE line, and boot-selectable 8-/16-/32-bit memory access. The integrated DRAM controller supports two banks with RAS/CAS multiplexing, and the SIM60 includes dedicated logic for parity generation and checking on DRAM data paths.