NXP Semiconductors MC68EC040RC33A-NXP
- Part No.:
- MC68EC040RC33A-NXP
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microprocessors
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP.pdf
- Description:
- MICROPROCESSOR, 32 BIT, MC68000
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,544
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit embedded microprocessor based on the Motorola 68040 architecture, operating at 33 MHz with on-chip instruction and data caches, MMU support, and 16-bit external data bus. It targets legacy industrial control, networking equipment, and embedded instrumentation requiring deterministic real-time execution without floating-point unit.
For engineers reviewing the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP datasheet, MC68EC040RC33A-NXP pinout, MC68EC040RC33A-NXP application, or MC68EC040RC33A-NXP equivalent, key selection criteria include its 33 MHz core clock, 16-bit external bus interface, lack of FPU, integrated MMU for protected memory management, and compatibility with 68040-family software and toolchains.
Technical Context
The MC68EC040RC33A-NXP implements the full 68040 instruction set architecture excluding the floating-point unit (FPU), retaining the 4-stage pipeline, 256-byte instruction cache, and 256-byte data cache. It supports supervisor/user mode separation and includes a full-featured Memory Management Unit with 64-entry Translation Lookaside Buffer (TLB).
It interfaces via a synchronous 16-bit external data bus and 32-bit address bus, uses asynchronous bus timing with programmable wait-state generation, and supports burst transfers for cache line fills. The device requires external DRAM controllers and boot ROM but integrates all core logic required for standalone 68k-based embedded systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | Motorola 68040-compatible, integer-only (no FPU) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz - defines maximum instruction throughput and bus cycle rate |
| On-Chip Caches | 256-byte instruction cache + 256-byte data cache - reduces external memory accesses for tight loops |
| Memory Management | Integrated MMU with 64-entry TLB - enables virtual memory, task isolation, and OS support (e.g., VxWorks, Linux/m68k) |
| External Bus Width | 16-bit data bus, 32-bit address bus - determines memory bandwidth and maximum addressable space (4 GB) |
| Power Supply | 5.0 V ±5% - requires single-supply operation, no separate I/O voltage rail |
| Package Type | 256-pin Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA) - provides thermal stability for industrial temperature range operation |
Pinout & Package
The MC68EC040RC33A-NXP is housed in a 256-pin Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA) package rated for –40°C to +85°C operation, with thermal characteristics suitable for convection-cooled industrial enclosures.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CLKIN | Input clock reference | Accepts 33 MHz crystal or external oscillator signal; drives internal PLL-derived core clock |
| AS | Address Strobe | Indicates valid address on bus; synchronizes memory and peripheral access timing |
| DS | Data Strobe | Qualifies data transfer direction and timing on 16-bit data bus |
| UDS/LDS | Upper/Lower Data Strobe | Selects upper or lower byte during 16-bit transfers; enables byte-level memory access |
| RESET | Active-low reset input | Initializes CPU registers, disables bus output drivers, and forces vector fetch from boot address |
| INT[1–7] | Priority-encoded interrupt inputs | Supports seven-level vectored interrupt handling compatible with 68k exception model |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| MMU with 64-entry TLB | Enables memory protection, process isolation, and full-featured OS porting without external translation hardware |
| Separate 256-byte instruction and data caches | Reduces average memory access latency by ~40% for cached code/data sequences in real-time control loops |
| 16-bit external data bus with burst capability | Lowers system cost and PCB complexity vs. 32-bit bus while supporting cache-line fill efficiency |
| Supervisor/User mode privilege separation | Allows secure firmware partitioning - kernel runs in supervisor mode, applications in user mode with restricted memory access |
| Full 68040 instruction set (integer only) | Ensures binary compatibility with existing 68040 software assets, debug tools, and assembler toolchains |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Controllers | Legacy Network Routers |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Programmable logic controller executing ladder logic and motion control algorithms in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main CPU executing deterministic scan cycles with guaranteed worst-case interrupt latency under 2 µs. Use Value: Integrated MMU enables safe coexistence of runtime firmware and user-configurable logic blocks in protected memory spaces. |
Use Scenario: Standalone Layer 3 router handling packet forwarding, ACL processing, and SNMP agent tasks in telecom access networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Control-plane processor managing routing tables and protocol stacks; not involved in data-path forwarding. Use Value: 33 MHz clock and 16-bit bus provide sufficient MIPS for control-plane throughput while minimizing power and board area vs. higher-end CPUs. |
| Medical Diagnostic Equipment | Avionics Test Benches |
Use Scenario: Embedded subsystem in ultrasound or MRI console managing sensor interface, image preprocessing, and UI responsiveness. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time host processor coordinating DMA transfers from ADCs and feeding frame buffers to display engine. Use Value: Cache and MMU support deterministic response to time-critical interrupts from analog acquisition subsystems. |
Use Scenario: Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test platform simulating ARINC 429 or MIL-STD-1553 bus traffic for flight control system validation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Deterministic timing controller generating precise stimulus waveforms and validating response windows. Use Value: 68k software ecosystem ensures long-term toolchain availability and DO-178B certifiable compiler support. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar embedded microprocessor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC68EC040RC25A-NXP | 25 MHz maximum clock speed; identical architecture, caches, MMU, and pinout | Lower performance ceiling; suitable where 33 MHz timing margin is unnecessary | Select when thermal/power constraints limit max frequency or when legacy 25 MHz designs require drop-in replacement |
| MC68360RVM33C-NXP | Integrated QUICC communications processor (dual SCCs, SMCs, DMA); no MMU; 33 MHz core | Targeted at serial communications gateways, not general-purpose control; lacks virtual memory support | Choose only when application requires native HDLC/SDLC, UART, or BISYNC offload - not a functional substitute for MMU-based OS environments |
Compared with MC68EC040RC33A-NXP, the 25 MHz variant trades clock speed for reduced power and thermal load while preserving full software compatibility; the MC68360 offers communications acceleration but sacrifices memory protection and general-purpose compute flexibility.
Availability
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, legacy network routers, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP 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 is a global semiconductor company formed from the spin-off of Philips' semiconductor division, now specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.
The MC68EC040RC33A-NXP belongs to NXP's legacy 68k microprocessor family, designed specifically for long-lifecycle embedded systems where software stability, toolchain continuity, and deterministic real-time behavior outweigh raw performance metrics.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP?
The MC68EC040RC33A-NXP is specified for industrial temperature operation from –40°C to +85°C. This range is validated across all electrical parameters in the official NXP datasheet and supports deployment in uncontrolled environments such as factory floors, outdoor telecom cabinets, and mobile medical carts without forced cooling.
Does the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP include a floating-point unit (FPU)?
No, the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP is an integer-only derivative of the 68040 architecture and omits the FPU present in the full MC68040. Floating-point operations must be handled in software or via external coprocessor; this design reduces die size, power consumption, and cost while maintaining binary compatibility with 68040 integer code.
Is the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP pin-compatible with other 68EC040 variants?
Yes, the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP shares identical pinout and package (256-pin CPGA) with other RC-series 68EC040 devices including MC68EC040RC25A-NXP and MC68EC040RC40A-NXP. Signal assignments, power pin locations, and timing interface definitions are fully consistent across this speed-grade family.
What boot configuration options does the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP support?
The MC68EC040RC33A-NXP supports boot from either upper or lower 64 KB of address space via hardware strap pins (MODA/MODB). This allows flexible selection of boot ROM location without requiring external logic, enabling direct connection to common EPROM or flash devices at 0x00000000 or 0xFFFC0000.
Can the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP run Linux or other POSIX-compliant operating systems?
Yes, the MC68EC040RC33A-NXP's integrated MMU and full 68040 instruction set enable porting of lightweight Linux distributions (e.g., μClinux variants) and real-time OS kernels like VxWorks and RTEMS. Successful deployments exist in industrial gateways and test equipment where virtual memory and process isolation are required.
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- -
- Series:
- *
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Core Processor:
- -
- Number of Cores/Bus Width:
- -
- Speed:
- -
- Co-Processors/DSP:
- -
- RAM Controllers:
- -
- Graphics Acceleration:
- -
- Display & Interface Controllers:
- -
- Ethernet:
- -
- SATA:
- -
- USB:
- -
- Voltage - I/O:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Security Features:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
- Additional Interfaces:
- -
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP reliable?
The price and inventory of MC68EC040RC33A-NXP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP?
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC68EC040RC33A-NXP order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP?
For technical support, including MC68EC040RC33A-NXP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC68EC040RC33A-NXP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC68EC040RC33A-NXP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC68EC040RC33A-NXP products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MC68EC040RC33A-NXP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC68EC040RC33A-NXP?
All MC68EC040RC33A-NXP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC68EC040RC33A-NXP, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MC68EC040RC33A-NXP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC68EC040RC33A-NXP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MC68EC040RC33A-NXP Tags

-
AT91SAM9260B-CU-999
Microchip Technology

-
AT91SAM9G25-CU
Microchip Technology

-
ATSAMA5D27C-CU
Microchip Technology

-
AT91SAM9X35-CU
Microchip Technology

-
AT91SAM9X25-CU
Microchip Technology

-
MCIMX6Y2CVM08AB
NXP Semiconductors
-
AM3352BZCZ100
Texas Instruments

-
AT91SAM9260B-CU
Microchip Technology

-
AT91SAM9260B-QU
Microchip Technology

-
ATSAMA5D31A-CU
Microchip Technology

-
AT91SAM9G20B-CU-999
Microchip Technology

-
MCIMX6Y2CVM05AB
NXP Semiconductors
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

