NXP Semiconductors MC68HC908GZ8MFA

Overview

MC68HC908GZ8MFA from Freescale Semiconductor is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 8 KB on-chip Flash memory, 512 B RAM, and integrated peripherals including ADC, ESCI, SPI, MSCAN08, and a PLL-based Clock Generator Module. 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 MC68HC908GZ8MFA datasheet, MC68HC908GZ8MFA pinout, MC68HC908GZ8MFA application, or MC68HC908GZ8MFA equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated package mapping (SOIC-28), functional pin definitions, real-world use cases in CAN-based vehicle modules, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented technical distinctions.

Technical Context

The MC68HC908GZ8MFA implements the HCS08 CPU core with enhanced addressing modes and low-power wait/stop modes. Its Clock Generator Module integrates a crystal oscillator, PLL with programmable multiplier (×1 to ×32), and automatic acquisition/lock logic - enabling stable 8 MHz system clock from a 1–4 MHz crystal input.

It features an 8-channel 10-bit ADC with configurable sample time and result justification, a full-duplex ESCI supporting asynchronous UART and LIN 1.3, and an MSCAN08 controller compliant with ISO 11898-1 (CAN 2.0A/B). All peripherals are memory-mapped and interrupt-capable via a centralized IRQ/KBI vectoring scheme.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68HC908GZ8MFA is housed in a 28-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package with 0.300-inch body width and standard 1.27 mm pitch. Pin assignments follow Freescale's GZ-series layout, with dedicated VDD/VSS pairs, analog and digital supply separation (VDDAD/VSSAD, VDDA/VSSA), and multiplexed I/O functions.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC68HC908GZ8MFA, MC9S08DZ128 offers significantly greater memory and processing headroom at higher cost and power, while MC68HC908GZ16 provides seamless Flash capacity expansion within identical mechanical and electrical constraints.

Availability

MC68HC908GZ8MFA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor nodes, HVAC controllers, and motor drive interface boards requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC68HC908GZ8MFA 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, analog, and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MC68HC908GZ8MFA belongs to the HCS08 microcontroller family, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power automotive body electronics and industrial control applications requiring CAN, ADC, and robust flash-based firmware execution.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68HC908GZ8MFA?

The MC68HC908GZ8MFA achieves a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, derived from its internal PLL which multiplies a 1–4 MHz crystal input. This frequency governs instruction execution speed, peripheral timing, and ADC conversion rates. The HCS08 core executes most instructions in 1–3 bus cycles, enabling deterministic real-time response in control loops.

Does the MC68HC908GZ8MFA support CAN communication natively?

Yes, the MC68HC908GZ8MFA integrates the MSCAN08 controller, a fully compliant CAN 2.0A/B module supporting bit rates up to 1 Mbit/s. It includes 32 message buffers, acceptance filtering, and error handling logic - all implemented in hardware. An external CAN transceiver (e.g., MC33886 or TJA1042) is required for physical layer signaling.

What are the key low-power features of the MC68HC908GZ8MFA?

The MC68HC908GZ8MFA supports Wait and Stop low-power modes. In Stop mode, current consumption drops below 1 µA while retaining RAM content and allowing wake-up via IRQ, KBI, or reset. The LVI (Low-Voltage Inhibit) circuit disables operation below user-configured VDD thresholds, preventing erratic behavior during brownout conditions.

How is the ADC configured on the MC68HC908GZ8MFA?

The MC68HC908GZ8MFA features an 8-channel, 10-bit successive-approximation ADC with programmable sample time, left/right justification, and internal reference selection. Inputs map to PTB0–PTB7 (AD0–AD7). Conversion is triggered by software, timer, or ESCI activity, and results are stored in 16-bit registers with configurable alignment for direct DSP processing.

Is the MC68HC908GZ8MFA pin-compatible with other GZ-series devices?

Yes, the MC68HC908GZ8MFA shares identical pinout and package (SOIC-28) with the MC68HC908GZ16. Both devices use the same peripheral register map and reset/startup behavior, enabling hardware reuse. Differences are limited to Flash size (8 KB vs. 16 KB) and associated memory configuration bits - no PCB changes are required for migration.