NXP Semiconductors MC68HC000RC12
- Part No.:
- MC68HC000RC12
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microprocessors
- Package:
- 68-BCPGA
- Datasheet:
-
MC68HC000RC12.pdf
- Description:
- IC MPU M680X0 12MHZ 68PGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,762
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Product details
Overview
MC68HC000RC12 from Freescale Semiconductor (formerly Motorola) is a CMOS 16/32-bit microprocessor with 32-bit internal architecture, 24-bit address bus (16 MB addressing), 16-bit data bus, and 12 MHz maximum clock frequency. It implements the full M68000 instruction set, supports supervisor/user privilege modes, and targets embedded control systems requiring deterministic real-time execution.
For engineers reviewing the MC68HC000RC12 datasheet, MC68HC000RC12 pinout, MC68HC000RC12 application, or MC68HC000RC12 equivalent, key selection criteria include bus timing compatibility with legacy M68K peripherals, DC/AC electrical specs at 12 MHz, thermal performance in industrial temperature range, and pin-compatible upgrade path from MC68000.
Technical Context
The MC68HC000RC12 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 asynchronous bus interface uses DTACK, BERR, and HALT signals for cycle control and error handling, supporting both 8-bit and 16-bit memory and I/O transfers.
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 exception vector table starting at address $000000. Privilege separation enables secure kernel-mode operation in real-time OS environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Max Clock Frequency | 12 MHz - defines maximum instruction throughput and synchronous peripheral timing budget |
| Address Bus Width | 24-bit - supports up to 16 MB of linear memory space without banking or segmentation |
| Data Bus Width | 16-bit - enables efficient word-aligned memory access and native 16-bit peripheral interfacing |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade embedded applications with no derating required |
| Supply Voltage | +5 V ±5% - compatible with standard TTL/CMOS logic families and legacy power supplies |
| Instruction Set | Full M68000 ISA - ensures binary compatibility with existing software, toolchains, and debug infrastructure |
| Package Type | 68-pin Quad Flat Pack (QFP), RC suffix - surface-mountable with 0.65 mm lead pitch and JEDEC MO-137 compliance |
Pinout & Package
MC68HC000RC12 is housed in a 68-pin Quad Flat Pack (QFP) package per Case 765A-05 (RC suffix), measuring 24.0 mm × 24.0 mm with 0.65 mm lead pitch and gull-wing leads. Thermal resistance θJA is 45°C/W under standard JEDEC test conditions.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| AD0–AD15 | Multiplexed Address/Data Bus | Bi-directional 16-bit bus carrying lower address bits during T1 and data during T2–T4; requires external latch (e.g., 74LS373) for address capture |
| A16–A23 | Upper Address Bus | Non-multiplexed 8-bit address lines enabling full 24-bit addressing without external demux logic |
| DTACK | Data Transfer Acknowledge | Active-low asynchronous handshake signal indicating memory/peripheral readiness; used to extend bus cycles |
| BERR | Bus Error | Active-low signal asserted by slave devices to indicate invalid address or access violation; triggers bus error exception |
| HALT | Halt Request Input | Active-low input that suspends CPU execution after current instruction completes; used for debugging and co-processor synchronization |
| RESET | Reset Input | Active-low asynchronous reset that initializes program counter to $000000 and enters supervisor mode |
| VCC, GND | Power Supply | +5 V supply and ground pins distributed across package corners and center for low-noise operation and thermal dissipation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| CMOS Process Technology | Reduces active power consumption to ~1.2 W at 12 MHz and enables static operation (0 Hz clock stop) |
| Supervisor/User Mode Separation | Enables memory protection and privileged instruction restriction for RTOS kernel implementation |
| Asynchronous Bus Interface | Eliminates need for fixed-clock peripheral timing; supports variable-speed memory and legacy M6800 peripherals |
| Exception Vector Table | Fixed 256-byte table at $000000 provides deterministic latency for interrupts, bus errors, and traps |
| 32-Bit Internal Architecture | Delivers 32-bit register width and ALU operations while maintaining 16-bit external bus footprint for cost-sensitive designs |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Controller | Legacy Test Equipment |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Standalone programmable logic controller executing ladder logic scans with deterministic I/O response. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central execution unit managing discrete I/O mapping, timer/counter functions, and serial HMI communication. Use Value: 12 MHz clock and predictable 2–12 cycle instruction timing enable sub-millisecond scan times with guaranteed worst-case jitter. |
Use Scenario: Automated calibration system for analog instrumentation requiring precise timing and stable firmware execution. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Host processor coordinating DAC/ADC sequences, GPIB bus control, and non-volatile configuration storage. Use Value: Supervisor mode prevents accidental register corruption during long-running calibration routines; BERR detection ensures fault-safe abort on sensor timeout. |
| Medical Diagnostic Interface | Avionics Data Recorder |
|
Use Scenario: Front-end interface board translating legacy RS-232/parallel signals from ultrasound transducers into digital packet streams. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol bridge with DMA-assisted buffering and real-time interrupt servicing for time-critical sensor data ingestion. Use Value: Full M68000 ISA compatibility allows reuse of certified diagnostic firmware modules; –40°C to +85°C rating supports wide ambient operating range. |
Use Scenario: Flight data acquisition unit capturing ARINC 429 and discrete aircraft bus signals for post-flight analysis. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Deterministic real-time controller with watchdog supervision, non-volatile event logging, and dual-redundant memory access. Use Value: HALT and RESET inputs support controlled fail-safe state transitions; DTACK-based bus timing accommodates slow EEPROM writes without CPU polling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 16/32-bit microprocessor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC68000P12 | Bipolar process, 12 MHz max, 64-pin DIP package, higher power (2.5 W), no static operation | Limited to through-hole PCBs; unsuitable for low-power or zero-clock-stop designs | Select when legacy DIP layout reuse is mandatory and power budget permits |
| MC68EC000RC16 | Embedded variant with no A23 line (23-bit address = 8 MB), same RC QFP package, 16 MHz max clock | Reduced memory map; optimized for cost-sensitive controllers where full 16 MB not required | Select when application fits within 8 MB and higher clock margin improves throughput |
Compared with MC68HC000RC12, MC68000P12 offers identical instruction timing but lacks power efficiency and static operation, while MC68EC000RC16 trades address space for higher clock rate and lower gate count-making it suitable only where memory footprint is constrained.
Availability
MC68HC000RC12 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, legacy test equipment, medical diagnostic interfaces, and avionics data recorders requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for MC68HC000RC12 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, known for the M68K family and automotive microcontrollers.
The MC68HC000 belongs to the M68000 microprocessor family, designed for high-reliability embedded control applications requiring binary compatibility, deterministic timing, and industrial temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68HC000RC12?
The MC68HC000RC12 is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 12 MHz under industrial temperature conditions (–40°C to +85°C) and +5 V ±5% supply. This frequency defines its instruction throughput ceiling and determines minimum bus cycle durations for memory and peripheral interfacing. The MC68HC000RC12 maintains full functionality-including exception handling and bus arbitration-at this rated speed without derating.
Does the MC68HC000RC12 support static (zero-clock) operation?
Yes, the MC68HC000RC12 supports static operation due to its CMOS fabrication process. When the clock is halted (e.g., via external oscillator disable or CLKIN grounded), the device retains register and memory contents and resumes execution immediately upon clock restart. This capability is critical for low-power suspend modes and deterministic debug halting in the MC68HC000RC12.
How does the MC68HC000RC12 handle bus errors during memory access?
The MC68HC000RC12 asserts the BERR signal in response to an invalid address or unresponsive peripheral, triggering a synchronous bus error exception. The processor pushes the program counter and status register onto the supervisor stack and vectors to address $000028. This mechanism enables robust fault recovery in safety-critical applications using the MC68HC000RC12.
What package type is used for the MC68HC000RC12?
The MC68HC000RC12 is packaged in a 68-pin Quad Flat Pack (QFP) conforming to Case 765A-05, designated by the "RC" suffix. It features gull-wing leads with 0.65 mm pitch, 24.0 mm × 24.0 mm body size, and JEDEC MO-137 compliance-optimized for automated SMT assembly and thermal reliability in industrial environments.
Is the MC68HC000RC12 pin-compatible with the original MC68000?
Yes, the MC68HC000RC12 is pin-compatible with the bipolar MC68000 in the same 68-pin package variant, sharing identical pin assignments for AD0–AD15, A16–A23, DTACK, BERR, HALT, RESET, and power terminals. This allows direct replacement in existing layouts while delivering lower power, wider temperature range, and static operation in the MC68HC000RC12.
MC68HC000RC12 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 68-BCPGA
- Series:
- M680x0
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Core Processor:
- EC000
- Number of Cores/Bus Width:
- 1 Core, 32-Bit
- Speed:
- 12MHz
- Co-Processors/DSP:
- -
- RAM Controllers:
- -
- Graphics Acceleration:
- No
- Display & Interface Controllers:
- -
- Ethernet:
- -
- SATA:
- -
- USB:
- -
- Voltage - I/O:
- 5.0V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Security Features:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 68-PGA (26.92x26.92)
- Additional Interfaces:
- -
MC68HC000RC12 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC68HC000RC12 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC68HC000RC12 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 MC68HC000RC12 reliable?
The price and inventory of MC68HC000RC12 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC68HC000RC12 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC68HC000RC12?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC68HC000RC12 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC68HC000RC12?
MC68HC000RC12 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC68HC000RC12 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 MC68HC000RC12?
For technical support, including MC68HC000RC12 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC68HC000RC12 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC68HC000RC12 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC68HC000RC12 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 MC68HC000RC12 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC68HC000RC12?
All MC68HC000RC12 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC68HC000RC12, 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 MC68HC000RC12 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC68HC000RC12:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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