NXP Semiconductors MC68E360VR25VLR2

Overview

MC68E360VR25VLR2 from Freescale Semiconductor is a 25 MHz QUICC™ (Quad Integrated Communication Controller) IC integrating CPU32+ core, System Integration Module (SIM60), and Communications Processor Module (CPM). It delivers 4.5 MIPS, supports up to 32-bit data bus with dynamic sizing, includes four SCCs, two SMCs, one SPI, dual TDM support, and operates across –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

For engineers reviewing the MC68E360VR25VLR2 datasheet, MC68E360VR25VLR2 pinout, MC68E360VR25VLR2 application, or MC68E360VR25VLR2 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 240-pin PQFP package, slave mode capability for MC68040 companion operation, HDLC/SDLC support at 2 Mbps per SCC, and integrated 2.5 KB dual-port RAM for CPM buffer descriptor management.

Technical Context

The MC68E360VR25VLR2 implements a tightly coupled dual-processor architecture: the CPU32+ core handles general-purpose execution while the RISC-based CPM independently manages all seven serial channels (four SCCs, two SMCs, one SPI) and DMA transfers. Its SIM60 provides clock synthesis, periodic interrupt timer, software watchdog, IEEE 1149.1 JTAG test access, and bus arbitration logic.

It features a 32-bit intermodule bus (IMB) linking CPU32+, SIM60, and CPM modules - enabling concurrent internal operations without bus contention. The CPM's 224 buffer descriptors, continuous-mode transmission/reception, and microcode-loadable protocols (e.g., PPP, Profibus, DDCMP) allow protocol flexibility without CPU intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68E360VR25VLR2 is housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) with 0.5 mm pitch, RoHS-compliant, and rated for industrial temperature operation (–40°C to +85°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad-serial communication controller applications.

Compared with MC68E360VR25VLR2, MC68EN360RC25 offers identical functionality in a more rugged PGA package but larger footprint, while MPC8272 provides higher performance and modern toolchain support at the cost of complete hardware and software incompatibility.

Availability

MC68E360VR25VLR2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial protocol gateways, telecom access nodes, embedded network routers, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MC68E360VR25VLR2 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 MC68E360VR25VLR2 belongs to the QUICC™ family - designed specifically for deterministic, multi-protocol serial communications in resource-constrained embedded systems where CPU offload and protocol flexibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported data rate for HDLC operation on MC68E360VR25VLR2?

The MC68E360VR25VLR2 supports HDLC/SDLC operation at up to 2 Mbps per SCC channel. This is confirmed in the official MC68360 Product Brief and applies to all four SCCs under standard operating conditions at 25 MHz. The CPM's dedicated microcode and 224 buffer descriptors ensure full line-rate handling without CPU intervention. MC68E360VR25VLR2 maintains this rate across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Does MC68E360VR25VLR2 include an integrated Ethernet PHY?

No, MC68E360VR25VLR2 does not integrate an Ethernet PHY. While SCC1 supports IEEE 802.3 Ethernet MAC layer functionality (full 10-Mbps support), it requires an external PHY transceiver such as the MC68160 or compatible 10BASE-T device. This is explicitly stated in the Product Brief: "Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 Optional on SCC1 (Full 10-Mbps Support) (Available only on the MC68EN360)" - confirming MC68E360VR25VLR2 lacks the PHY silicon.

Can MC68E360VR25VLR2 operate without its CPU32+ core enabled?

Yes, MC68E360VR25VLR2 supports slave mode, which disables the CPU32+ core while keeping the SIM60 and CPM fully operational. In this mode, it functions as an intelligent communications peripheral - handling all serial protocols, DMA, and TDM routing autonomously. This capability is documented in the MC68360 Product Brief under "Slave Mode To Disable CPU32+" and is used in MC68040 companion configurations.

What type of memory interface does MC68E360VR25VLR2 support for booting?

MC68E360VR25VLR2 supports booting from 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit memory via its dedicated boot chip select (CS0). The Product Brief specifies "Boot Chip Select Available at Reset (Options for 8-, 16-, or 32-Bit Memory)" - enabling direct boot from EPROM, Flash, or SRAM without external glue logic. This dynamic bus sizing is managed entirely by the SIM60 module at power-on reset.

Is MC68E360VR25VLR2 pin-compatible with MC68360EM25?

No, MC68E360VR25VLR2 is not pin-compatible with MC68360EM25. Although both are 240-pin PQFP devices, the Product Brief states "Pinout-The pinout is not the same" between MC68360 variants and earlier MC68302 devices, and Freescale documentation confirms distinct pin mappings across EM/EN/RC suffixes. MC68E360VR25VLR2 uses a unique VLR2 marking denoting voltage/temperature/routing variant - requiring dedicated PCB layout.