NXP Semiconductors MC68HC908EY16CFA

Overview

MC68HC908EY16CFA from NXP (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 16 KB on-chip Flash, 512 B RAM, and integrated peripherals including 8-channel 10-bit ADC, ESCI, SPI, dual timers (TIMA/TIMB), BEMF counter, and keyboard interrupt module. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency and targets motor control, appliance UI, and industrial sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MC68HC908EY16CFA datasheet, MC68HC908EY16CFA pinout, MC68HC908EY16CFA application, or MC68HC908EY16CFA equivalent, key selection criteria include Flash endurance (100k erase/write cycles), internal clock generator trim capability, low-voltage inhibit (LVI) reset threshold (typically 2.5 V), and support for stop/wait low-power modes in embedded systems requiring robustness and cost-sensitive integration.

Technical Context

The MC68HC908EY16CFA implements the HCS08 CPU core with a 16-bit address bus and Harvard architecture memory map. Its Internal Clock Generator (ICG) supports digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) operation with programmable trim and frequency division, enabling stable internal clocking without external crystals in many applications.

Peripheral integration includes a dedicated BEMF Counter Module for brushless DC motor commutation timing, ESCI for asynchronous serial communication, and a Keyboard Interrupt (KBD) module supporting up to 32-key matrix scanning - all managed via memory-mapped I/O registers and configurable interrupt vectors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68HC908EY16CFA is housed in a 48-pin QFP (Quad Flat Package) with 0.5 mm pitch, measuring 7 mm × 7 mm. The package supports fine-pitch surface-mount assembly and provides full I/O access to all integrated peripherals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9RS08KA8, the MC68HC908EY16CFA delivers superior motor control capability via dedicated BEMF and tachometer hardware, while S9KEAZ128AMLH offers architectural scalability at the cost of increased power and layout complexity - making MC68HC908EY16CFA optimal for cost-constrained, function-specific industrial control.

Availability

MC68HC908EY16CFA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control systems, appliance user interfaces, industrial sensor nodes, and embedded power supply monitors requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle production programs.

Supply support for MC68HC908EY16CFA 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 leader focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.

The MC68HC908EY16CFA belongs to the legacy HCS08 microcontroller family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded control in appliances, motor drives, and industrial equipment where reliability, low power, and peripheral integration are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68HC908EY16CFA?

The MC68HC908EY16CFA supports a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, derived from its internal clock generator. This frequency defines instruction execution speed and peripheral timing resolution. The HCS08 core executes most instructions in 1–3 bus cycles, enabling deterministic real-time response in control applications. External clock sources up to 8 MHz are also supported when configured via CONFIG registers.

Does the MC68HC908EY16CFA include hardware debug support?

Yes, the MC68HC908EY16CFA includes on-chip background debug mode (BDM) support via a single-wire interface. This allows full read/write memory access, register inspection, breakpoint setting, and single-stepping without halting peripheral operation - essential for development and field diagnostics. Debug entry requires only the BKGD pin and ground, with no dedicated debug header needed.

How is Flash memory programmed on the MC68HC908EY16CFA?

Flash programming on the MC68HC908EY16CFA is performed in-system using standard BDM commands or via the internal bootloader. Each Flash block can be erased individually (page erase) or entirely (mass erase), with write cycles requiring proper sequencing of FLCR and FLBPR registers. Programming endurance is rated at 100,000 cycles, and data retention exceeds 10 years at 85°C.

What peripheral modules are unique to the MC68HC908EY16CFA within the HCS08 family?

The MC68HC908EY16CFA integrates two application-specific modules not found in base HCS08 variants: the BEMF Counter Module for hardware-accelerated back-EMF zero-crossing detection in BLDC motors, and dual tachometer inputs (TACH0/TACH1) on Port D. These features directly address motor control requirements, distinguishing it from general-purpose HCS08 derivatives like the MC9S08QG8.

Is the MC68HC908EY16CFA RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MC68HC908EY16CFA is RoHS compliant and manufactured with lead-free terminations per JEDEC J-STD-020. The "CFA" suffix denotes the 48-pin QFP package with green (halogen-free) molding compound and matte tin lead finish. Full compliance documentation, including substance declarations and test reports, is available through NXP's product change notifications and material disclosure portals.