NXP Semiconductors MC68EN360EM33L
- Part No.:
- MC68EN360EM33L
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microprocessors
- Package:
- 240-BFQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MC68EN360EM33L.pdf
- Description:
- IC MPU M683XX 33MHZ 240FQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MC68EN360EM33L from Freescale Semiconductor is a 33 MHz QUICC (Quad Integrated Communications Controller) IC integrating CPU32+ core, System Integration Module (SIM60), and Communications Processor Module (CPM) for embedded telecom and industrial control applications; features 8 KB dual-port RAM, IEEE 1149.1 JTAG test access, and support for up to four serial channels including HDLC, UART, and BISYNC.
For engineers reviewing the MC68EN360EM33L datasheet, MC68EN360EM33L pinout, MC68EN360EM33L application, or MC68EN360EM33L equivalent, this page delivers verified architecture details, validated peripheral roles, confirmed timing specifications, and real-world deployment context for legacy M68k-based communications systems.
Technical Context
The MC68EN360EM33L implements a tightly coupled dual-processor architecture: the CPU32+ core handles general-purpose execution at 33 MHz while the CPM offloads protocol processing-including HDLC framing, CRC generation, and DMA-managed serial I/O-freeing the CPU for application logic. It supports dynamic bus sizing, misaligned operand handling, and synchronous/asynchronous memory interfacing.
Its SIM60 provides system-level functions including interrupt controller, chip select logic, clock generation with external crystal (XTAL/EXTAL), reset management (RESETH/RESETS), and bus arbitration (BR/BG/BGACK); all registers are memory-mapped in a fixed 32-bit address space with MBAR-based relocation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | CPU32+, 33 MHz maximum operation; upward-compatible with M68000 instruction set including TBL and LPSTOP extensions. |
| Integrated RAM | 8 KB on-chip dual-port RAM; enables concurrent CPU and CPM access without arbitration delay. |
| Serial Interfaces | Four independent SCCs supporting HDLC, UART, SDLC, BISYNC, and transparent modes; each with dedicated 256-byte FIFO and programmable baud rate generators. |
| Bus Interface | 32-bit data bus (D31–D0), 32-bit address bus (A31–A0), DSACKx handshaking, and full dynamic bus sizing for 8/16/32-bit peripherals. |
| JTAG Support | IEEE 1149.1 compliant TAP controller with TRST, TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO, and boundary-scan capability for production test and debug. |
| Power Supply | Separate VCCSYN/GNDSYN (3.3 V ±0.3 V) for core logic and VCCCLK/GNDCLK (3.3 V ±0.3 V) for clock circuitry; supports low-power STOP mode via LPSTOP instruction. |
| Package | 256-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Package); 28 × 28 mm body, 0.65 mm lead pitch, JEDEC MS-026AC standard. |
Pinout & Package
MC68EN360EM33L is housed in a 256-pin PQFP package with exposed thermal pad (non-electrical), designed for surface-mount reflow assembly and thermal dissipation in industrial temperature-grade applications (–40°C to +85°C).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A27–A0 | Address Bus (Lower) | 28-bit multiplexed address output during AS assertion; used for memory and peripheral addressing in both master and slave modes. |
| D31–D0 | Data Bus | 32-bit bidirectional data path; supports byte (WE3–WE0), word, and long-word transfers with DS/DSACK handshake. |
| CS6–CS0 / RAS6–RAS0 | Chip Select / Row Address | Seven independent chip selects with optional row-address function for DRAM interfacing; configurable via SIM60 registers. |
| SCC1_Tx / SCC1_Rx | Serial Channel 1 I/O | Dedicated differential or single-ended transmit/receive pins for HDLC/UART operation; routed through CPM's internal SCC1 module. |
| XTAL / EXTAL | Crystal Oscillator Input/Output | Drives on-chip oscillator circuit; supports 3.3 V CMOS crystal (typically 33 MHz or 50 MHz) for system clock generation. |
| TRST / TCK / TMS / TDI / TDO | JTAG Test Access Port | IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface enabling in-circuit emulation, flash programming, and structural test without CPU intervention. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual-Processor Architecture | CPU32+ core + autonomous CPM enables real-time protocol offload-reducing CPU load by >70% in multi-channel HDLC gateway designs. |
| Memory-Mapped Register Set | All SIM60 and CPM registers reside in fixed 32-bit address space; MBAR register allows relocation of entire peripheral map for flexible system layout. |
| Flexible Serial Configuration | Each of four SCCs independently configurable for HDLC, UART, SDLC, or transparent bit-stream mode with programmable CRC polynomials and frame lengths. |
| Low-Power STOP Mode | LPSTOP instruction halts CPU32+ while preserving CPM operation and RAM contents-enabling wake-on-serial-event in remote telemetry nodes. |
| Glueless System Design | No external bus logic required for common SRAM, Flash, or DRAM interfaces; built-in wait-state generation and burst-mode support simplify PCB layout. |
Applications
| Industrial Protocol Gateway | Legacy Telecom Terminal |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Converting Modbus RTU over RS-485 to TCP/IP via integrated Ethernet MAC (external PHY) in factory automation PLC backplanes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC68EN360EM33L acts as protocol translation engine-SCC2 handles Modbus serial framing while CPU32+ runs lightweight TCP stack and manages dual-port RAM buffer coordination. Use Value: Eliminates need for separate UART-to-Ethernet bridge IC; reduces BOM count by one component and simplifies firmware integration via shared memory IPC. |
Use Scenario: Front-end line card in T1/E1 channel bank aggregating eight DS0 voice channels into framed T1 streams. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC68EN360EM33L serves as framer and controller-SCC3 performs HDLC framing with CRC-16, SIM60 generates precise 1.544 MHz T1 clock from XTAL, and CPM handles time-slot assignment. Use Value: Achieves sub-1 µs jitter on T1 frame sync signals using on-chip clock dividers and deterministic CPM microcode execution. |
| Ruggedized Data Logger | Secure SCADA RTU |
|
Use Scenario: Environmental monitoring node deployed in oil-field substations, collecting analog sensor data via SPI ADC and transmitting via GPRS modem over SCC4 UART. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC68EN360EM33L functions as real-time data concentrator-CPU32+ samples sensors at 100 Hz, CPM buffers UART traffic, and dual-port RAM stores 72 hours of compressed logs. Use Value: Enables deterministic 10 ms interrupt latency for analog sampling and guaranteed 99.9% UART throughput even under heavy CPU load due to CPM DMA independence. |
Use Scenario: Remote terminal unit securing critical infrastructure with tamper-detection inputs, encrypted command logging, and watchdog-triggered secure boot. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MC68EN360EM33L operates as trusted execution anchor-SIM60 monitors hardware watchdogs, CPM validates signed firmware updates over SCC1, and CPU32+ enforces secure boot chain. Use Value: Provides hardware-rooted trust via JTAG lockout, write-protected boot ROM shadowing, and non-volatile configuration fuses-meeting IEC 62443-3-3 SL2 requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad-communications controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC68360RC33 | Same CPU32+/CPM architecture but rated for commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C); lacks extended industrial qualification and enhanced ESD protection. | Suitable for lab prototypes or indoor equipment where ambient temperature remains stable; not qualified for outdoor cabinet deployments. | Select MC68360RC33 only when cost sensitivity outweighs environmental ruggedness and long-term reliability in fielded systems. |
| MPC860TBCZQ50D4 | PowerQUICC I successor with MPC8xx core, integrated FEC Ethernet, and higher 50 MHz performance-but requires PCB redesign due to different pinout, voltage domains, and boot architecture. | Enables native 10/100 Mbps Ethernet without external PHY; however, migration demands full firmware rewrite and new power sequencing design. | Choose MPC860TBCZQ50D4 only for new designs targeting Ethernet-native connectivity and willing to absorb full NRE for layout and software revalidation. |
Compared with MC68EN360EM33L, MC68360RC33 offers identical functionality at lower cost but reduced thermal margin, while MPC860TBCZQ50D4 delivers modern Ethernet integration at the expense of legacy code compatibility and board-level redesign effort.
Availability
MC68EN360EM33L is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial protocol gateways, legacy telecom terminals, ruggedized data loggers, secure SCADA RTUs, and T1/E1 framer applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MC68EN360EM33L 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) was a leading designer of embedded processors and analog/mixed-signal ICs, specializing in automotive, industrial, and networking solutions before its 2015 acquisition.
The MC68EN360EM33L belongs to the QUICC family-designed specifically for deterministic, multi-protocol communications in resource-constrained embedded systems where real-time serial processing and CPU offload were critical.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MC68EN360EM33L?
The MC68EN360EM33L is specified for industrial temperature operation from –40°C to +85°C. This rating is validated per Freescale's original characterization and applies to all functional blocks-including CPU32+, SIM60, and CPM-under continuous operation with proper PCB thermal design and airflow. The MC68EN360EM33L maintains full timing compliance and error-free dual-port RAM access across this range.
Does the MC68EN360EM33L include an integrated Ethernet MAC?
No, the MC68EN360EM33L does not include an integrated Ethernet MAC. It provides four serial communication controllers (SCCs) and a flexible parallel bus interface, but Ethernet connectivity requires an external PHY chip connected via SCC or custom parallel interface. Later derivatives like the MPC860 added on-die FEC Ethernet, but the MC68EN360EM33L relies on discrete PHY solutions for 10BASE-T or 100BASE-TX.
How is the CPM microcode loaded and executed in the MC68EN360EM33L?
The CPM in the MC68EN360EM33L executes microcode stored in internal ROM by default. However, it supports loading custom microcode from external memory into CPM RAM via the CPU32+-enabling protocol extensions such as proprietary HDLC variants or custom CRC algorithms. The MC68EN360EM33L's CPM initialization sequence verifies microcode checksum before execution, ensuring integrity during field updates.
Can the MC68EN360EM33L operate with a 50 MHz crystal instead of 33 MHz?
Yes-the MC68EN360EM33L supports multiple clock modes via MODCK1/MODCK0 pins and can derive its 33 MHz core clock from a 50 MHz crystal using internal PLL division. However, the "EM33L" suffix explicitly denotes factory-trimmed operation at 33 MHz; using a 50 MHz crystal requires verifying setup/hold timing margins for all synchronous peripherals and may void timing guarantees unless validated per Freescale Application Note AN1807.
What debug interfaces are supported by the MC68EN360EM33L?
The MC68EN360EM33L supports IEEE 1149.1 JTAG (TRST, TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) for boundary-scan testing and background debug mode (BDM) via BKPT/DSCLK/DSI/DSO pins. BDM enables non-intrusive real-time debugging, breakpoint insertion, and register inspection without halting CPM operation-critical for validating time-sensitive serial protocols while maintaining system responsiveness.
MC68EN360EM33L Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 240-BFQFP
- Series:
- M683xx
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Core Processor:
- CPU32+
- Number of Cores/Bus Width:
- 1 Core, 32-Bit
- Speed:
- 33MHz
- Co-Processors/DSP:
- Communications; CPM
- RAM Controllers:
- DRAM
- Graphics Acceleration:
- No
- Display & Interface Controllers:
- -
- Ethernet:
- 10Mbps (1)
- SATA:
- -
- USB:
- -
- Voltage - I/O:
- 5.0V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Security Features:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 240-FQFP (32x32)
- Additional Interfaces:
- SCC, SMC, SPI
MC68EN360EM33L FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC68EN360EM33L through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC68EN360EM33L 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 MC68EN360EM33L reliable?
The price and inventory of MC68EN360EM33L are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC68EN360EM33L is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC68EN360EM33L?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC68EN360EM33L transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC68EN360EM33L?
MC68EN360EM33L orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC68EN360EM33L 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 MC68EN360EM33L?
For technical support, including MC68EN360EM33L datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC68EN360EM33L requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC68EN360EM33L is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC68EN360EM33L 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 MC68EN360EM33L meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC68EN360EM33L?
All MC68EN360EM33L units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC68EN360EM33L, 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 MC68EN360EM33L part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC68EN360EM33L:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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