NXP Semiconductors MC68HC000EI10R

Overview

MC68HC000EI10R from Freescale Semiconductor (formerly Motorola) is a CMOS 16/32-bit microprocessor with 32-bit internal architecture, 24-bit address bus (16 MB max), 16-bit data bus, and 10 MHz maximum clock frequency. It implements the full M68000 instruction set, supports user/supervisor privilege modes, and is used in industrial controllers, legacy embedded systems, and retro-computing platforms requiring deterministic real-time execution.

For engineers reviewing the MC68HC000EI10R datasheet, MC68HC000EI10R pinout, MC68HC000EI10R application, or MC68HC000EI10R equivalent, key selection considerations include bus timing compatibility with 8-/16-bit peripherals, asynchronous memory interface support, exception vector handling, and thermal derating at 10 MHz operation in plastic DIP packaging.

Technical Context

The MC68HC000EI10R executes instructions using a three-stage pipeline (fetch, decode, execute) and features a 16-bit external data bus with multiplexed address/data lines on pins AD0–AD15. Its bus control logic supports fully asynchronous, pseudo-asynchronous, and synchronous read/write cycles via DTACK, BERR, and HALT signals.

It implements full M68000 programmer's model including 8 × 32-bit data/address registers, 16-bit status register with interrupt mask and mode bits, and 256-entry exception vector table starting at address $000000. Exception processing includes bus error, address error, reset, and seven autovectored interrupts.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68HC000EI10R is housed in a 64-pin plastic Dual In-Line Package (Case 740-03, suffix "L"), with 0.3-inch body width and 0.1-inch pin pitch. Pin functions follow standard M68000 signal naming and are electrically compatible with MC68000 and MC68010 in identical packages.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC68HC000EI10R, the MC68000P10 offers identical functionality but higher thermal output and less noise immunity, while the MC68EC000RC16 trades pin compatibility for higher speed and smaller footprint-neither serves as a direct replacement without PCB or firmware changes.

Availability

MC68HC000EI10R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, retro computing restorations, and legacy medical instrumentation requiring stable component supply over extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MC68HC000EI10R 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, founded from Motorola's semiconductor division.

The MC68HC000EI10R belongs to the M68000 family, engineered for backward-compatible microprocessor upgrades in industrial, communications, and computing systems where deterministic timing and long-term availability are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported clock frequency for MC68HC000EI10R?

The MC68HC000EI10R is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 10 MHz under specified operating conditions (V_CC = +5 V ±5%, T_A = –40°C to +85°C). This limit ensures setup/hold timing compliance for all internal pipeline stages and external bus cycles. Exceeding 10 MHz may result in undefined instruction execution or bus timing violations, even if the device appears to function intermittently.

Does MC68HC000EI10R support the full M68000 instruction set?

Yes, the MC68HC000EI10R implements the complete M68000 instruction set architecture, including all addressing modes, 32-bit register operations, and exception handling mechanisms defined in the M68000 User's Manual. No instructions are omitted or altered, ensuring binary compatibility with software written for the original NMOS MC68000 and MC68010 processors.

What package type is used for MC68HC000EI10R?

The MC68HC000EI10R uses a 64-pin plastic Dual In-Line Package (DIP) conforming to Case 740-03 (suffix "L"). It features a 0.3-inch body width, 0.1-inch pin pitch, and through-hole mounting. This package matches the pinout and mechanical footprint of the original MC68000P10, enabling direct socket replacement in legacy systems.

How does MC68HC000EI10R handle bus errors?

The MC68HC000EI10R asserts the BERR signal during an invalid bus cycle (e.g., unmapped address or peripheral timeout), triggering a bus error exception vector located at address $28. The processor saves the program counter and status register onto the supervisor stack and begins exception processing-enabling firmware to log faults, initiate recovery, or halt safely without corrupting system state.

Is MC68HC000EI10R compatible with MC68000-based system designs?

Yes, the MC68HC000EI10R is electrically, functionally, and pinout-compatible with the original MC68000 in the same 64-pin DIP package. It retains identical signal timing, voltage levels, and bus protocol behavior-including AS, DTACK, and BERR handshaking-making it a direct drop-in replacement for NMOS-based systems without layout or firmware modification.