NXP Semiconductors MC68HC000CEI16

Overview

MC68HC000CEI16 from Freescale Semiconductor (formerly Motorola) is a CMOS 16-bit microprocessor compatible with the M68000 architecture, featuring a 24-bit address bus, 16-bit data bus, and 16 MHz maximum clock frequency. It operates from a single +5 V supply, supports both synchronous and asynchronous bus timing, and implements supervisor/user privilege modes for embedded control applications including industrial controllers and legacy instrumentation systems.

For engineers reviewing the MC68HC000CEI16 datasheet, MC68HC000CEI16 pinout, MC68HC000CEI16 application, or MC68HC000CEI16 equivalent, key selection criteria include bus timing compatibility with legacy M68K peripherals, DC/AC electrical specifications at 16 MHz, thermal performance in plastic DIP packaging, and exception handling behavior for real-time deterministic response.

Technical Context

The MC68HC000CEI16 implements the full M68000 instruction set with 32-bit internal registers and a 16-bit external data path. It uses a three-stage pipeline (fetch-decode-execute) and supports 256 interrupt vectors, bus arbitration via BR/BG signals, and asynchronous bus control using DTACK, BERR, and HALT.

Its architecture includes a 16-bit ALU, dedicated address generation unit, status register with interrupt mask and mode bits, and hardware support for exception stack frame management during reset, bus error, and interrupt servicing - all verified for operation across –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68HC000CEI16 is housed in a 64-pin dual in-line package (DIP) with 0.6-inch body width and 0.1-inch pin pitch. Pin assignments follow the standard M68000 family layout, with dedicated address/data multiplexing, control signal outputs, and power/ground distribution optimized for noise immunity in mixed-signal industrial boards.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC68HC000CEI16, the MC68000P16 requires additional thermal management but offers identical timing behavior, while the MC68EC000RC16 reduces system cost at the expense of peripheral interoperability - making MC68HC000CEI16 the optimal choice for industrial retrofits requiring full M68K ecosystem compatibility.

Availability

MC68HC000CEI16 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, avionics maintenance terminals, and legacy test equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC68HC000CEI16 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 semiconductor company specializing in embedded processing, connectivity, and analog solutions for automotive, industrial, and networking markets.

The MC68HC000CEI16 belongs to the M68000 family - designed specifically to deliver binary-compatible, low-power CMOS upgrades for legacy 16/32-bit embedded systems requiring industrial temperature operation and long-term availability.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68HC000CEI16?

The MC68HC000CEI16 is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz under specified industrial temperature and voltage conditions. This value is guaranteed by Freescale's AC electrical specifications and reflects the highest stable instruction execution rate achievable with proper decoupling and PCB layout. Exceeding this frequency may result in undefined bus timing behavior or instruction corruption. The MC68HC000CEI16 does not support dynamic frequency scaling or overclocking features.

Does the MC68HC000CEI16 support the full M68000 instruction set?

Yes, the MC68HC000CEI16 implements the complete M68000 instruction set including all addressing modes, privileged instructions, and exception vectors defined in the M68000 User's Manual. It maintains binary compatibility with software written for earlier HMOS versions such as the MC68000P12, enabling drop-in replacement in existing firmware without recompilation. The MC68HC000CEI16 retains identical opcode encoding and execution semantics across all documented instructions.

What package type is used for the MC68HC000CEI16?

The MC68HC000CEI16 is packaged in a 64-pin ceramic dual in-line package (DIP) designated Case 740-03 with L suffix, measuring 0.6 inches wide and conforming to JEDEC MS-001 standards. This through-hole package provides mechanical robustness and thermal stability for industrial applications, and its pinout matches the standard M68000 family layout - ensuring compatibility with legacy PCB footprints and socket-based development systems.

How does the MC68HC000CEI16 handle bus errors and exceptions?

The MC68HC000CEI16 responds to bus errors by asserting the BERR signal, halting the current instruction, and initiating an exception sequence that pushes program counter and status register onto the supervisor stack before vectoring to address $000028. It supports 256 distinct exception vectors including reset, interrupts, address errors, and privilege violations - all handled with deterministic latency and hardware-managed stack frames. This behavior is identical to the original M68000 and fully documented in Section 6 of the MC68HC000CEI16 user manual.

Is the MC68HC000CEI16 compatible with M6800-series peripheral ICs?

Yes, the MC68HC000CEI16 includes dedicated M6800 peripheral interface signals - including VMA, BA, and SCLK - and complies with the timing specifications outlined in Section 10.11 of the M68000 User's Manual. These features enable direct connection to legacy peripherals such as the MC6821 PIA, MC6850 ACIA, and MC6845 CRTC without translation logic. The MC68HC000CEI16 maintains full electrical and functional compatibility with these devices across its rated operating range.