NXP Semiconductors MC68LC302CPU16CT

Overview

MC68LC302CPU16CT from Freescale is a low-power, static-core integrated multiprotocol processor based on the M68000 architecture, operating at 16.67 MHz with 5 V supply, housed in a 100-pin TQFP package. It integrates dual SCCs, three timers (including watchdog and PIT), 1152-byte dual-port RAM, four chip-select lines, and on-chip PLL supporting 32 kHz or 4 MHz crystals - designed for space- and power-constrained embedded control applications such as PCMCIA cards and portable industrial terminals.

For engineers reviewing the MC68LC302CPU16CT datasheet, MC68LC302CPU16CT pinout, MC68LC302CPU16CT application, or MC68LC302CPU16CT equivalent, key selection considerations include dual-SCC protocol support (HDLC/SDLC/UART/BISYNC), static 68000 core enabling zero-wait-state operation, low-power standby modes with wake-up via PIT or two dedicated pins, glueless memory interface using WEH/WEL/OE, and absence of SCC3 and external bus arbitration signals.

Technical Context

The MC68LC302CPU16CT implements a static M68000 CPU core with full 16-bit data bus and 20-bit address bus, enabling direct execution from 8-bit or 16-bit memory without external wait-state generation. Its System Integration Block (SIB) provides interrupt controller with two operation modes, parallel I/O ports with interrupt capability, and programmable address mapping for dual-port RAM and IMP registers.

It features an on-chip PLL with 32 kHz or 4 MHz crystal input, generating system clock and CLKOUT; supports boot in 8-bit mode then switch to 16-bit operation; includes freeze control for debugging (PGA only); and retains DISCPU (slave mode) for use as intelligent peripheral - but removes SCC3, external bus arbitration pins (BR/BG/BGACK), and UDS/LDS/RW except in slave mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC68LC302CPU16CT is supplied in a 100-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) with 0.5 mm pitch, 14 mm × 14 mm body, and exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are validated per Freescale's MC68LC302 documentation and confirmed across official ordering tables and pin description diagrams.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar integrated multiprotocol processor applications.

Compared with MC68LC302CPU16CT, MC68302RC20 adds SCC3 and bus arbitration but increases size and power; MC68332ACPV16 trades serial protocol engines for precision timing peripherals - making it complementary rather than substitutable in communications-centric designs.

Availability

MC68LC302CPU16CT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial telemetry terminals, PCMCIA modem cards, and embedded point-of-sale controllers requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant 5 V microcontroller solutions.

Supply support for MC68LC302CPU16CT 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 connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and networking markets.

The MC68LC302 product line extends the MC68302 IMP family with static-core efficiency and TQFP packaging - targeting cost-sensitive, space-constrained, and low-power communications applications where full bus arbitration or triple-SCC capability is unnecessary.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC68LC302CPU16CT?

The MC68LC302CPU16CT is rated for a maximum operating frequency of 16.67 MHz. This speed is guaranteed under 5 V supply and commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C). The device uses an on-chip PLL that accepts either a 32 kHz or 4 MHz crystal input to generate the internal system clock - ensuring stable timing without external clock synthesis circuitry. Performance-critical applications must validate timing margins against actual PCB layout and load conditions.

Does the MC68LC302CPU16CT support 3.3 V operation?

No, the MC68LC302CPU16CT is specified exclusively for 5 V operation. While Freescale offered 3.3 V variants (e.g., MC68LC302CPU16V), the "CT" suffix in MC68LC302CPU16CT denotes the 5 V, commercial-temperature version in TQFP packaging. Attempting to operate MC68LC302CPU16CT at 3.3 V will result in undefined behavior, insufficient noise margin, and potential failure to execute instructions correctly due to core voltage dependency.

How many serial communication controllers does the MC68LC302CPU16CT include?

The MC68LC302CPU16CT includes two independent full-duplex Serial Communication Controllers (SCCs). Each supports HDLC/SDLC, UART, BISYNC, and transparent modes with autobaud detection. Unlike the original MC68302, the MC68LC302CPU16CT omits SCC3 to reduce pin count and cost - making it ideal for dual-channel applications like modem-host interfaces or sensor-to-gateway bridges where three serial links are unnecessary.

Can the MC68LC302CPU16CT operate in a slave (peripheral) mode?

Yes, the MC68LC302CPU16CT supports CPU-disabled (slave) mode via the DISCPU pin. In this mode, the internal CPU halts while peripherals - including both SCCs, timers, chip selects, and dual-port RAM - remain fully operational and accessible by an external master. Bus control signals (BR, BG, BGACK) become available in slave mode, enabling seamless integration as an intelligent peripheral in larger systems - a key feature retained from the MC68302 architecture.

What package type and pin count does the MC68LC302CPU16CT use?

The MC68LC302CPU16CT uses a 100-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) package with 0.5 mm lead pitch and 14 mm × 14 mm body dimensions. This package replaces the 132-pin PGA used in earlier MC68302 variants, reducing board area and enabling use in height-restricted applications such as PCMCIA cards. Pin functions are documented in Freescale's MC68LC302 datasheet and verified against official ordering information tables.