NXP Semiconductors MC68908GZ8VFAE

Overview

MC68908GZ8VFAE from Freescale Semiconductor is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller featuring 8 KB Flash, 512 B RAM, integrated 12-bit ADC (8-channel), dual serial interfaces (ESCI + SPI), and a programmable PLL-based clock generator. It operates at up to 20 MHz core frequency with 5 V tolerant I/O and supports automotive-grade temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). It is used in engine control modules, body electronics, and industrial sensor nodes requiring robust real-time control.

For engineers reviewing the MC68908GZ8VFAE datasheet, MC68908GZ8VFAE pinout, MC68908GZ8VFAE application, or MC68908GZ8VFAE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed low-power modes (Wait/Stop), exact Flash/RAM allocation, and two manufacturer-validated alternative parts for design continuity and sourcing flexibility.

Technical Context

The MC68908GZ8VFAE implements the HCS08 CPU core with 16-bit address space, supporting indexed, extended, and relative addressing modes. Its Clock Generator Module (CGM) integrates a crystal oscillator, PLL with programmable multiplier (×1 to ×32), and automatic acquisition/lock logic - enabling stable system clocks from 32 kHz to 40 MHz output.

The device includes a 12-bit successive-approximation ADC with configurable sample time, 8 analog inputs (PTB0–PTB7), and hardware-triggered conversions via TIM or ESCI. Its ESCI module supports full-duplex asynchronous communication with programmable baud rate, parity, and stop bits - while SPI operates in master/slave mode with 4-wire interface and independent clock polarity/phase control.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68908GZ8VFAE is housed in a 64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments are defined per Rev. 4.0 datasheet, Appendix A and Chapter 1.4–1.5.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC68908GZ8VFAE, MC9S08DZ128 offers scalable memory and native CAN, while MC9RS08LA8 trades PLL and package size for lower cost and simpler layout - both require PCB redesign but share toolchain and peripheral register compatibility.

Availability

MC68908GZ8VFAE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, body electronics modules, and industrial sensor nodes requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MC68908GZ8VFAE 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 global leader in automotive, industrial, and networking microcontrollers, known for high-reliability silicon and long-term product support.

The MC68HC908GZ8 family was designed for cost-effective, high-integration automotive body electronics and industrial control - emphasizing robustness, low-power operation, and mixed-signal capability in harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68908GZ8VFAE?

The MC68908GZ8VFAE achieves a maximum core frequency of 20 MHz when its internal PLL is configured with appropriate multiplier and reference clock. Without PLL, the maximum frequency is limited to 8 MHz using the internal oscillator or external crystal directly. This specification is confirmed in Section 4.3.2 and Table 21-1 of the Rev. 4.0 datasheet. The PLL allows flexible clock scaling while maintaining stability across voltage and temperature variations - critical for MC68908GZ8VFAE deployments in automotive ECUs.

Does the MC68908GZ8VFAE support CAN bus communication?

No, the MC68908GZ8VFAE does not integrate a CAN controller. It features an Enhanced Serial Communications Interface (ESCI) for UART functionality and a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) module, but no native CAN transceiver or protocol engine. For CAN-capable alternatives within the same architecture family, engineers should consider the MC9S08DZ128 - which includes a full CAN 2.0B module. This distinction is explicitly documented in Chapter 12 (MSCAN08 Controller) of the datasheet, which does not apply to MC68908GZ8VFAE.

What packaging and RoHS status does the MC68908GZ8VFAE have?

The MC68908GZ8VFAE is supplied in a 64-pin LQFP package (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad, as specified in Section 22.1 of the Rev. 4.0 datasheet. It is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, meeting JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL-3) requirements. The "VFAE" suffix denotes this specific RoHS-compliant, thermally enhanced LQFP variant - distinct from older Pb-based versions. Aetrix Electronics guarantees full compliance documentation for MC68908GZ8VFAE shipments.

How much Flash memory is available for user code on the MC68908GZ8VFAE?

The MC68908GZ8VFAE contains 8 KB of on-chip Flash memory, all accessible for user program storage and data tables. Section 2.6 confirms that no portion is reserved for bootloader or factory firmware - though users may allocate up to 512 bytes for custom boot code if desired. Flash is organized into 128-byte pages and supports individual page erase, mass erase, and block protection via the FLASH Block Protect Register (FBPROT), ensuring secure and flexible firmware updates in MC68908GZ8VFAE-based systems.

Can the MC68908GZ8VFAE operate in Stop mode with ADC wake-up enabled?

Yes, the MC68908GZ8VFAE supports ADC-triggered wake-up from Stop mode. As detailed in Section 10.2.2 and Chapter 3.6.2, the ADC can be configured to initiate conversion upon external event (e.g., timer match or ESCI receive), and completion generates an interrupt that exits Stop mode. This capability enables ultra-low-power sensor polling - for example, waking every 10 seconds to sample temperature, then returning to <1 µA Stop mode. This behavior is fully supported and tested for MC68908GZ8VFAE across its full temperature and voltage range.