NXP Semiconductors MC68CK331CAG16

Overview

MC68CK331CAG16 from Freescale Semiconductor is a 32-bit modular microcontroller featuring the CPU32 core, System Integration Module (SIM), General-Purpose Timer (GPT), and Queued Serial Module (QSM). It operates at 16 MHz, supports −40 °C to +85 °C industrial temperature range, uses a 132-pin PQFP package, and delivers fully static operation with low-power stop (LPSTOP) capability. It is used in embedded motor control and industrial automation systems requiring deterministic real-time I/O and serial communication.

For engineers reviewing the MC68CK331CAG16 datasheet, MC68CK331CAG16 pinout, MC68CK331CAG16 application, or MC68CK331CAG16 equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed peripheral capabilities (QSPI/SCI/GPT), exact package mapping, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for migration or sourcing continuity.

Technical Context

The MC68CK331CAG16 implements a modular architecture with CPU32, SIM, QSM, and GPT interconnected via a 24-bit address/16-bit data intermodule bus (IMB). Its SIM provides programmable chip selects (CS[10:0]), external bus interface, watchdog timer, clock monitor, and system protection logic-including bus, HALT, and spurious interrupt monitoring.

The QSM integrates dual-function serial peripherals: an enhanced SCI (UART) with modulus baud rate generation and parity support, and a QSPI with 80-byte RAM supporting up to 16 automatic transfers. The GPT includes two 16-bit free-running counters, three input capture channels, four output compare channels, and two PWM outputs-enabling precise timing, pulse accumulation, and waveform generation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68CK331CAG16 is housed in a 132-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch, JEDEC MS-026 compliant footprint, and exposed thermal pad not present (standard plastic body).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 32-bit microcontroller applications.

Compared with MC68CK331CAG16, MC68332CAG16 offers drop-in hardware compatibility with added memory and peripherals, while MPC5604B requires full schematic and firmware rework due to architectural and packaging divergence-making it a functional alternative only for greenfield CAN-centric projects.

Availability

MC68CK331CAG16 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, programmable logic controllers, automated test equipment, and energy metering gateways requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MC68CK331CAG16 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, analog, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and networking markets.

The MC68331 family was designed as a modular 32-bit microcontroller platform for deterministic real-time control applications-emphasizing peripheral integration, system-level protection, and long-term industrial reliability over raw performance.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68CK331CAG16?

The MC68CK331CAG16 is rated for a maximum system clock frequency of 16 MHz. This specification is guaranteed across its full industrial temperature range (−40 °C to +85 °C) and applies to both internal clock synthesis (using the 32.768 kHz crystal) and external clock input modes. The CPU32 core maintains full static operation at this speed, ensuring register and memory retention during clock stop events.

Does the MC68CK331CAG16 support CAN bus communication?

No, the MC68CK331CAG16 does not include native CAN bus hardware. Its serial peripherals consist solely of the Queued Serial Module (QSM), which integrates an enhanced SCI (UART) and QSPI interface. CAN functionality would require external transceivers and software protocol stack implementation-unlike later Freescale/NXP families such as the MPC56xx series that integrate dedicated CAN controllers.

What package type and pin count does the MC68CK331CAG16 use?

The MC68CK331CAG16 uses a 132-pin Plastic Quad Flat Package (PQFP) with 0.65 mm lead pitch. This matches the ordering information in the MC68331TS/D document for "132-Pin PQFP" variants at 16 MHz and −40 °C to +85 °C. Pin assignments are fully documented in Figure 2 of the datasheet, including dedicated functions for ADDR[23:0], DATA[15:0], PQS[7:0], and peripheral control signals.

How does the MC68CK331CAG16 handle low-power operation?

The MC68CK331CAG16 implements low-power operation via the CPU32's LPSTOP (Low-Power Stop) instruction, which halts the system clock while preserving register and memory contents due to its fully static design. Power consumption is further reduced by disabling unused modules through SIM configuration registers, and the 32.768 kHz crystal-based clock synthesizer enables ultra-low-power timing during standby modes.

Is the MC68CK331CAG16 pin-compatible with other MC68331 variants?

Yes, the MC68CK331CAG16 shares identical pinout and package with all 132-pin PQFP variants of the MC68331 family, including MC68331CFC16 and MC68331VFC16. Differences between these variants are limited to temperature grade (C = 0–70 °C, V = −40–105 °C, M = −40–125 °C) and ordering format-while the 'K' in MC68CK331CAG16 reflects a specific Freescale internal revision or tape-and-reel configuration consistent with the CAG16 suffix convention.