NXP Semiconductors MC68HC908GZ8CFA
- Part No.:
- MC68HC908GZ8CFA
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 48-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MC68HC908GZ8CFA.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 8BIT 8KB FLASH 48LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MC68HC908GZ8CFA from NXP (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 8 KB on-chip Flash, 512 B RAM, integrated 10-bit ADC (8 channels), dual serial interfaces (ESCI + SPI), and CAN 2.0A controller. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency, supports 5 V operation, and targets embedded control in automotive body electronics and industrial sensor nodes.
For engineers reviewing the MC68HC908GZ8CFA datasheet, MC68HC908GZ8CFA pinout, MC68HC908GZ8CFA application, or MC68HC908GZ8CFA equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package mapping, functional pin definitions, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options for design-in and supply continuity.
Technical Context
The MC68HC908GZ8CFA integrates a CPU08 core with 16-bit address space, a Clock Generator Module (CGM) featuring PLL-based clock synthesis, and a dedicated MSCAN08 controller supporting CAN 2.0A protocol with message buffering and automatic retransmission. Its ESCI module provides full-duplex asynchronous communication with selectable baud rates and framing options.
It includes a 10-bit successive-approximation ADC with programmable sample time, left/right-justified result registers, and conversion-triggering via software, timer, or external event. Low-power modes (Wait/Stop) are supported across all major peripherals including ADC, COP, IRQ, and CGM - enabling sub-10 µA stop-current operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | CPU08 8-bit CISC core with 16-bit addressing; enables compact code footprint and deterministic interrupt latency for real-time control loops. |
| Flash Memory | 8 KB on-chip Flash with block protection; supports in-system programming and firmware updates without external hardware. |
| RAM | 512 bytes of on-chip RAM; sufficient for stack, variables, and small buffers in resource-constrained embedded applications. |
| ADC | 10-bit SAR ADC with 8 input channels, ±1 LSB INL/DNL; suitable for precision analog sensing (e.g., temperature, pressure, battery voltage). |
| CAN Interface | MSCAN08 controller compliant with ISO 11898-1 (CAN 2.0A); includes 32-message object buffer, automatic ID filtering, and error confinement. |
| Serial Interfaces | ESCI (UART-compatible) + SPI master/slave; enables dual-protocol connectivity to sensors, displays, or host controllers. |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V operation; compatible with standard 5 V automotive and industrial power rails. |
| Operating Temperature | –40 °C to +85 °C; qualified for under-hood and factory-floor environments. |
Pinout & Package
MC68HC908GZ8CFA is housed in a 64-pin QFP (Quad Flat Package) with 0.5 mm pitch, JEDEC MS-026AC compliant. The package supports surface-mount assembly and provides thermal and mechanical reliability for industrial-grade deployments.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD, VSS | Power supply and ground | Dual power domains: VDD/VSS for digital logic; VDDA/VSSA for analog subsystem (ADC, CGM) to minimize noise coupling. |
| OSC1, OSC2 | Crystal oscillator inputs | Supports external crystal (1–8 MHz) or ceramic resonator; drives internal CGM for precise clock generation. |
| RST | Active-low reset input | Asynchronous reset with internal pull-up; accepts external push-button or supervisory IC assertion. |
| IRQ | External interrupt request | Level-sensitive, edge-selectable interrupt input for priority event handling (e.g., emergency stop, sensor fault). |
| PTE0/TxD, PTE1/RxD | ESCI transmit/receive | Full-duplex UART interface pins; support RS-232 level-shifting or direct TTL-level communication. |
| PTC0/CANTX, PTC1/CANRX | CAN transceiver interface | Dedicated differential CAN bus output (TX) and input (RX); require external CAN transceiver (e.g., MC33388) for physical layer compliance. |
| PTB0–PTB7/AD0–AD7 | ADC analog inputs | Eight multiplexed analog input channels; support single-ended or pseudo-differential acquisition with internal reference selection. |
| PTD0/SS, PTD1–PTD7 | SPI interface + general I/O | SS (slave select), SCLK, MOSI, MISO pins plus 4 additional GPIO; enable daisy-chain or multi-slave SPI topologies. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| MSCAN08 Controller | Hardware-accelerated CAN 2.0A with 32-message object RAM, ID masking, and automatic retransmission - reduces CPU load and ensures robust fieldbus communication. |
| Configurable Low-Power Modes | Wait mode (CPU halted, peripherals active) and Stop mode (all clocks gated, <10 µA current) - extends battery life in portable or energy-sensitive systems. |
| Flash Block Protection | Programmable write/erase protection per 512-byte block; prevents accidental firmware corruption during field updates or debug sessions. |
| Computer Operating Properly (COP) | Watchdog timer with selectable timeout (0.5 ms to 1.0 s); resets MCU on software hang - critical for fail-safe automotive and industrial control. |
| Enhanced Serial Communications Interface (ESCI) | UART with 13-bit break detection, LIN 1.3 support, and programmable oversampling - enables diagnostics, bootloader, and vehicle network integration. |
| Keyboard Interrupt Module (KBI) | 8-input scan-capable KBI with wake-from-Stop capability; supports low-power keypad monitoring without CPU intervention. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Centralized control of door locks, window lifts, mirror adjustment, and interior lighting in passenger vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary MCU executing real-time control logic, managing CAN messaging with gateway and actuator ECUs, and sampling analog sensor feedback. Use Value: Integrated MSCAN08 eliminates external CAN controller, reducing BOM count; 8 KB Flash accommodates feature-rich firmware with diagnostics and calibration tables. |
Use Scenario: Remote environmental monitoring unit with temperature, humidity, and voltage sensing deployed in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Data acquisition MCU performing periodic ADC conversions, local preprocessing, and transmitting results over ESCI to PLC or gateway. Use Value: 10-bit ADC with internal reference and programmable sample time ensures stable measurement accuracy; low-power Stop mode enables multi-year battery operation. |
| Smart Actuator Controller | Diagnostic Communication Interface |
Use Scenario: Closed-loop motor control for HVAC damper actuators or valve positioning in building management systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time execution of PID loop using TIM modules, PWM generation via I/O pins, and CAN-based command reception. Use Value: Dual timer modules (TIM1/TIM2) with link capability enable synchronized PWM and capture timing; MSCAN08 handles command/response protocol with guaranteed delivery. |
Use Scenario: In-vehicle diagnostic tool interfacing with ECU via ISO 9141/KWP2000 or UDS-over-CAN protocols. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol translation bridge between USB/RS232 host and vehicle CAN bus, with ESCI handling host comms and MSCAN08 managing vehicle-side messaging. Use Value: ESCI's 13-bit break detection and LIN support simplify K-line emulation; on-chip Flash allows field-upgradable diagnostic firmware. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC9S08DZ128 | Successor HCS08 device with 128 KB Flash, enhanced CAN FD support, and higher-speed bus (20 MHz); larger package (80-pin LQFP). | Targets next-gen automotive platforms requiring extended memory, CAN FD bandwidth, and more I/O. | Select when upgrading legacy designs needing scalability, future-proofing, or increased peripheral integration - not drop-in compatible. |
| S9KEAZ128AMLH | Kinetis E-series ARM Cortex-M0+ MCU with 128 KB Flash, 16 KB RAM, and CAN FD; operates at 48 MHz with advanced low-power modes. | Suitable for applications demanding higher computational throughput, RTOS support, or mixed-signal performance beyond 8-bit limits. | Choose for new designs prioritizing performance headroom, long-term roadmap alignment, and ARM ecosystem tools - requires full firmware rewrite. |
Compared with MC68HC908GZ8CFA, MC9S08DZ128 offers greater memory and CAN FD readiness but requires PCB redesign; S9KEAZ128AMLH delivers modern architecture and scalability at the cost of 8-bit code compatibility and toolchain migration effort.
Availability
MC68HC908GZ8CFA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor nodes, smart actuator controllers, and diagnostic communication interfaces requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for MC68HC908GZ8CFA 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 markets, with deep heritage in microcontroller innovation dating back to Motorola and Freescale.
The MC68HC908GZ8CFA belongs to the HCS08 family - designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability embedded control applications where CAN integration, low-power operation, and Flash-based firmware flexibility are essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum bus frequency supported by the MC68HC908GZ8CFA?
The MC68HC908GZ8CFA supports a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, achieved via its integrated Clock Generator Module (CGM) with PLL circuitry. This frequency is derived from an external crystal (1–8 MHz) or resonator, and determines instruction execution speed, peripheral timing, and ADC conversion rate. The MC68HC908GZ8CFA datasheet specifies timing parameters - such as minimum instruction cycle time and ESCI baud rate tolerance - based on this 8 MHz limit.
Does the MC68HC908GZ8CFA include a hardware CAN controller?
Yes, the MC68HC908GZ8CFA integrates the MSCAN08 controller, a fully featured hardware CAN 2.0A module compliant with ISO 11898-1. It includes 32 message objects, programmable acceptance filtering, automatic retransmission, and error confinement. The MC68HC908GZ8CFA requires only an external CAN transceiver (e.g., MC33388 or TJA1042) to complete the physical layer - no software bit-banging or external protocol IC is needed.
What are the key low-power capabilities of the MC68HC908GZ8CFA?
The MC68HC908GZ8CFA supports two primary low-power modes: Wait mode (CPU halted, peripherals remain clocked) and Stop mode (all clocks gated, current draw <10 µA). Both modes are accessible via instruction and retain RAM contents. Wake-up sources include IRQ, KBI, RTC, and serial activity - enabling the MC68HC908GZ8CFA to serve in battery-powered sensor nodes or sleep-wake automotive subsystems with predictable power budgets.
Can the MC68HC908GZ8CFA perform ADC conversions without CPU intervention?
Yes, the MC68HC908GZ8CFA supports hardware-triggered ADC conversions using multiple sources: software write, Timer1 overflow, Timer2 channel 0 compare, or external IRQ edge. Conversion completion generates an interrupt or sets a status flag, allowing background data acquisition. This capability is documented in Chapter 3 of the MC68HC908GZ8CFA datasheet and enables deterministic sampling in real-time control loops without polling overhead.
Is the MC68HC908GZ8CFA pin-compatible with the MC68HC908GZ16?
No, the MC68HC908GZ8CFA and MC68HC908GZ16 are not pin-compatible. Although both belong to the GZ family and share the same 64-pin QFP package, their pin functions differ significantly - particularly in ADC channel mapping, timer I/O assignments, and peripheral signal routing. The MC68HC908GZ8CFA datasheet Appendix A confirms distinct pin assignments versus the GZ16 variant, requiring separate PCB layouts for each part.
MC68HC908GZ8CFA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 48-LQFP
- Series:
- HC08
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- HC08
- Core Size:
- 8-Bit
- Speed:
- 8MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, LINbus, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, POR, PWM
- Number of I/O:
- 37
- Program Memory Size:
- 8KB (8K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 1K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 8x10b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MC68HC908GZ8CFA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC68HC908GZ8CFA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC68HC908GZ8CFA 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 MC68HC908GZ8CFA reliable?
The price and inventory of MC68HC908GZ8CFA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC68HC908GZ8CFA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC68HC908GZ8CFA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC68HC908GZ8CFA transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for MC68HC908GZ8CFA?
MC68HC908GZ8CFA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC68HC908GZ8CFA 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 MC68HC908GZ8CFA?
For technical support, including MC68HC908GZ8CFA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC68HC908GZ8CFA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC68HC908GZ8CFA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC68HC908GZ8CFA 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 MC68HC908GZ8CFA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC68HC908GZ8CFA?
All MC68HC908GZ8CFA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC68HC908GZ8CFA, 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 MC68HC908GZ8CFA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC68HC908GZ8CFA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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