NXP Semiconductors MC68376BACAB20

Overview

MC68376BACAB20 from NXP (formerly Motorola) is a 32-bit microcontroller unit (MCU) with integrated CAN 2.0A/B controller, 160-pin QFP package, 20.97 MHz CPU clock, and on-chip TPU (Time Processing Unit) for deterministic real-time I/O timing. It serves as a system controller in industrial motion control systems requiring synchronized PWM generation and event-triggered analog capture.

For engineers reviewing the MC68376BACAB20 datasheet, MC68376BACAB20 pinout, MC68376BACAB20 application, or MC68376BACAB20 equivalent, key selection criteria include CAN interface support, TPU channel count (16 channels), 52-channel ADC with programmable gain, and compatibility with legacy MC68336-based designs via shared 160-pin QFP footprint.

Technical Context

The MC68376BACAB20 implements a ColdFire V1 core derivative architecture with Harvard bus structure, supporting external memory expansion up to 16 MB via 24-bit address bus and 16-bit data bus. Its integrated TPU executes time-critical tasks independently of the CPU using microcoded instruction set and dual 32-bit timers.

It integrates a 52-channel 10-bit ADC with selectable reference (VRH/VRL), simultaneous sampling capability across 8 channels, and hardware trigger inputs from TPU events or external pins. The CAN controller supports both standard and extended frames with 64-message object RAM and programmable bit timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68376BACAB20 uses a 160-pin QFP package (Case 864A-03) with 28 mm × 28 mm body size, 0.65 mm lead pitch, and 1.4 mm nominal height. Pin 1 and pin 160 are NC (no connect) to ensure mechanical and layout compatibility with MC68336 revision D+ devices.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC68336ACFT20 and S912XDP512J1MAG, MC68376BACAB20 uniquely combines CAN 2.0B support with a dedicated TPU for sub-microsecond I/O timing-critical for motor control and industrial PLCs where software-based timing introduces unacceptable jitter.

Availability

MC68376BACAB20 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, automotive body controllers, programmable logic controllers, and energy metering gateways requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC68376BACAB20 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 (originally Motorola Semiconductor) is a global leader in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in microcontrollers and mixed-signal SoCs.

The MC68376 belongs to the M683xx family of high-integration microcontrollers designed for deterministic real-time control in harsh industrial environments, emphasizing hardware-accelerated timing, robust analog interfaces, and fieldbus connectivity.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68376BACAB20?

The MC68376BACAB20 operates at a maximum CPU clock frequency of 20.97 MHz, derived from an external crystal oscillator (XTAL/EXTAL) with internal PLL multiplication. This frequency is fully specified across the –40 °C to +85 °C industrial temperature range and supports deterministic execution of TPU microcode and ADC conversion sequences without throttling.

Does the MC68376BACAB20 include an integrated CAN transceiver?

No, the MC68376BACAB20 integrates only a CAN protocol controller (CAN 2.0A/B compliant), not a physical layer transceiver. External CAN transceivers such as the MC33883 or TJA1042 must be used to interface with the CAN bus. The MC68376BACAB20 provides CANRX0 and CANTX0 signals that connect directly to the transceiver's RX and TX pins.

How many analog input channels does the MC68376BACAB20 support?

The MC68376BACAB20 supports 52 dedicated analog input channels (AN0 through AN59), mapped to a single 10-bit successive-approximation ADC. These channels include dedicated pins for analog reference (VRH/VRL), analog ground (VSSA), and analog power (VDDA), enabling high-precision ratiometric measurements in noisy industrial environments.

Is the MC68376BACAB20 pin-compatible with the MC68336 series?

Yes, the MC68376BACAB20 uses the same 160-pin QFP package as the MC68336, with pins 1 and 160 designated as NC to ensure mechanical and PCB layout compatibility. However, functional differences exist: MC68376BACAB20 adds CANRX0/CANTX0 pins and removes certain legacy signals present on MC68336, requiring minor schematic updates for direct replacement.

What is the role of the TPU in the MC68376BACAB20?

The Time Processing Unit (TPU) in the MC68376BACAB20 is a dedicated 16-channel hardware timing engine that offloads time-critical I/O tasks-including PWM generation, input capture, quadrature decoding, and event synchronization-from the CPU. It executes microcoded instructions with nanosecond-level timing precision, enabling deterministic real-time control without software interrupt latency.