NXP Semiconductors MC68376BGCAB20

Overview

MC68376BGCAB20 from NXP (formerly Motorola) is a 32-bit CISC microcontroller with integrated CAN 2.0A/B controller, 160-pin QFP package, 20.97 MHz CPU clock, and industrial temperature range (–40 to +105 °C). It integrates TPU (Time Processing Unit), QSPI, and 16-channel ADC for real-time control in embedded automation systems.

For engineers reviewing the MC68376BGCAB20 datasheet, MC68376BGCAB20 pinout, MC68376BGCAB20 application, or MC68376BGCAB20 equivalent, key selection criteria include CAN interface support, TPU-based timing precision, QSPI peripheral compatibility, and industrial-grade thermal performance.

Technical Context

The MC68376BGCAB20 implements a full 32-bit M68K core with on-chip memory management and dual-bus architecture supporting external 16-bit data/24-bit address bus expansion. Its Time Processing Unit (TPU) provides 24 independent channels for input capture, output compare, pulse-width modulation, and quadrature decoding.

It features a dedicated CAN 2.0A/B controller with 64-message object RAM, programmable bit timing, and automatic retransmission. The QSPI module supports master/slave operation with configurable frame format and DMA-triggered transfers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68376BGCAB20 uses a 160-pin plastic quad flat pack (QFP) per Case 864A-03 mechanical specification: 28.0 mm × 28.0 mm body, 0.65 mm lead pitch, 1.4 mm max height. Pin 1 is NC (no connect); pin 160 is VDD - ensuring pin 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 MC68376BGCAB20, MC68376BAMFT20 extends thermal range and adds ROM-based boot security, while MC9328MX1CZK trades deterministic TPU/CAN integration for raw ARM performance - making MC68376BGCAB20 optimal for cost-sensitive, timing-critical industrial controls.

Availability

MC68376BGCAB20 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU development, industrial PLC design, and railway signaling interface projects requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MC68376BGCAB20 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) designs high-reliability microcontrollers for mission-critical embedded systems, with leadership in automotive, industrial, and aerospace control ICs.

The MC68376 product line delivers deterministic real-time performance through tightly coupled TPU, CAN, and ADC subsystems - engineered specifically for closed-loop motion control and distributed automation networks.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68376BGCAB20?

The MC68376BGCAB20 operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 20.97 MHz, derived from an external crystal (XTAL/EXTAL) or oscillator input. This frequency determines instruction execution speed, TPU timing resolution, and CAN bit-rate limits - all calibrated to this base clock. The MC68376BGCAB20 does not include an internal PLL; clock scaling is achieved via prescalers in the TPU and CAN modules.

Does the MC68376BGCAB20 include on-chip flash or ROM memory?

No, the MC68376BGCAB20 is a mask-ROMless variant - it boots from external memory via its 16-bit data and 24-bit address bus. The "B" in the part number indicates blank mask ROM, meaning firmware must be loaded from external EPROM, flash, or SRAM. This configuration provides full flexibility for field-upgradable applications but requires external memory circuitry.

How many CAN message objects does the MC68376BGCAB20 support?

The MC68376BGCAB20 integrates a single CAN 2.0A/B controller with 64 message object buffers implemented in on-chip RAM. Each object supports full identifier masking, direction control (TX/RX), and priority-based transmission arbitration - enabling robust multi-node network communication without CPU polling overhead.

What is the function of the TPUH0–TPUH15 pins on the MC68376BGCAB20?

The TPUH0–TPUH15 pins on the MC68376BGCAB20 are dedicated Time Processing Unit high-speed input channels used for edge detection, period measurement, pulse-width capture, and quadrature decoding. These pins feed directly into the TPU's internal timer array and support sub-microsecond timestamping - critical for motor phase alignment and encoder-based position tracking.

Is the MC68376BGCAB20 pin-compatible with the MC68336 series?

Yes, the MC68376BGCAB20 is pin-compatible with MC68336 Revision D and later devices: pins 1 and 160 are designated NC and VDD respectively, matching MC68376 pinout. Earlier MC68336 revisions (e.g., D65J mask) assign VSS and VDD to those positions - so PCB layout must follow Revision D+ mechanical drawings to ensure interoperability.