NXP Semiconductors MC68HC908QY4CPE

Overview

MC68HC908QY4CPE from NXP (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 4 KB on-chip FLASH, 192 B RAM, and integrated 8-channel 8-bit ADC. It features internal RC oscillator (4 MHz nominal), low-voltage inhibit (LVI), computer operating properly (COP) watchdog, and keyboard interrupt (KBI) module. Designed for cost-sensitive embedded control in appliance motor drives and industrial sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MC68HC908QY4CPE datasheet, MC68HC908QY4CPE pinout, MC68HC908QY4CPE application, or MC68HC908QY4CPE equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-pin SOIC package, 4 MHz internal clock accuracy (±2% over temperature), KBI wake-up capability, COP timeout programmability, and FLASH endurance of 10,000 erase/write cycles.

Technical Context

The MC68HC908QY4CPE implements the M68HC08 CPU core with 16-bit address bus and Harvard architecture. Its oscillator supports internal RC, external crystal, or external clock input, with automatic switching between sources. The KBI module enables wake-up from STOP mode via up to 4 dedicated input pins with configurable edge detection.

FLASH memory is organized in 512-byte pages with individual page erase capability and block protection register (FLBPR) for secure code storage. The ADC uses a successive-approximation architecture with software-selectable conversion time (16–64 µs) and supports both single-shot and continuous modes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68HC908QY4CPE is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (case #751A-02), measuring 3.9 mm × 4.9 mm × 1.75 mm, with gull-wing leads and RoHS-compliant finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit microcontroller applications.

Compared with MC9RS08KA2CSC and STM8S003F3P6, the MC68HC908QY4CPE delivers unique value in ultra-low-pin-count, KBI-optimized applications where minimal BOM, proven reliability in white goods, and direct replacement of legacy HC08 designs are critical.

Availability

MC68HC908QY4CPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for home appliance control, industrial sensor interface, smart power outlet, and medical diagnostic handheld applications requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for MC68HC908QY4CPE 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets, with roots in Freescale's embedded controller heritage.

The MC68HC908QY4CPE belongs to the HCS08 family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded control applications where integration of KBI, LVI, and FLASH in compact packages reduces system complexity and bill-of-materials cost.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68HC908QY4CPE?

The MC68HC908QY4CPE operates with a maximum bus clock frequency of 4 MHz, derived from its internal RC oscillator. This frequency is factory-trimmed to ±2% accuracy over the full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). External crystal or clock sources may be used, but the internal oscillator is the default and most commonly deployed configuration for this variant.

Does the MC68HC908QY4CPE support in-circuit programming?

Yes, the MC68HC908QY4CPE supports in-circuit programming via the MON (Monitor) module using a standard serial interface (SCI) at 9600 baud. Programming requires the device to be in monitor mode, initiated by holding the RESET pin low while applying a specific voltage sequence to the PTA4/BUSCLKX4 pin. Full FLASH erase and program operations are supported without removing the MC68HC908QY4CPE from the target board.

How many I/O pins does the MC68HC908QY4CPE provide?

The MC68HC908QY4CPE provides five functional I/O pins: PTA0 through PTA4. Among these, PTA0 serves dual function as IRQ input, and PTA1–PTA3 are dedicated KBI inputs. PTA4 doubles as OSC2 and BUSCLKX4 output. All five pins are individually configurable as input or output via the DDRA register, with weak pull-ups enabled per pin under software control.

What is the FLASH endurance specification for the MC68HC908QY4CPE?

The MC68HC908QY4CPE specifies FLASH endurance of 10,000 erase/write cycles per page, verified per JEDEC JESD22-A117 standard. Each 512-byte page can be erased independently, and the FLBPR register allows permanent write-protection of selected pages to preserve bootloader or calibration data across field updates.

Can the MC68HC908QY4CPE operate from a 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the MC68HC908QY4CPE operates across a supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V, making it fully compatible with 3.3 V systems. At 3.3 V, the internal oscillator maintains its specified ±2% accuracy, and all I/O pins remain 5 V tolerant - allowing safe interfacing with higher-voltage peripherals without level-shifting circuitry.