NXP Semiconductors MC908AP8ACBE

Overview

MC908AP8ACBE from Freescale Semiconductor is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 8 KB Flash, 512 B RAM, and integrated peripherals including SCI, SPI, I²C, ADC (8-channel, 10-bit), TIM, and COP watchdog. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency, supports 2.7–5.5 V supply, and targets low-cost embedded control in industrial sensors and appliance subsystems.

For engineers reviewing the MC908AP8ACBE datasheet, MC908AP8ACBE pinout, MC908AP8ACBE application, or MC908AP8ACBE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package mapping, functional pin roles, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options for design-in and sourcing decisions.

Technical Context

The MC908AP8ACBE implements the HCS08 CPU core with 16-bit address space, supporting indexed, extended, and relative addressing modes. Its Clock Generator Module (CGM) includes a PLL for flexible bus clock derivation from internal RC or external crystal sources, enabling precise timing control across varying supply and temperature conditions.

System integration is handled by the SIM module, which manages reset sources (POR, LVI, COP, illegal opcode), interrupt prioritization (IRQ, KBI, SCI, TIM), and low-power modes (Wait/Stop). The ADC features programmable sample time and conversion trigger via software or timer, while the TIM module provides input capture, output compare, and PWM generation with double-buffered registers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC908AP8ACBE is housed in a 44-pin QFP (Quad Flat Package) with 0.8 mm lead pitch, compliant with JEDEC MS-026 standard. Thermal pad exposed on underside for enhanced heat dissipation in continuous operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC908AP8ACBE, MC908AP16ACBE offers direct pin-compatible upgrade path with doubled memory, while S9KEAZ128AMLH provides architectural modernization at the cost of redesign effort - both serve distinct lifecycle stages: incremental enhancement versus strategic platform evolution.

Availability

MC908AP8ACBE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, home appliance control systems, smart meter subsystems, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MC908AP8ACBE 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) is a global leader in embedded processing solutions, delivering microcontrollers, analog, and connectivity products for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MC908AP8ACBE belongs to the HCS08-based AP-family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded control applications where Flash density, peripheral integration, and debug flexibility outweigh raw computational throughput.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC908AP8ACBE?

The MC908AP8ACBE achieves a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, derived from its internal RC oscillator or external crystal source through the Clock Generator Module's PLL circuit. This frequency governs instruction execution speed, peripheral timing, and ADC conversion rate - all calibrated to maintain stability across the full 2.7–5.5 V supply and –40°C to +85°C temperature range.

Does the MC908AP8ACBE support in-system programming without external hardware?

Yes, the MC908AP8ACBE includes a ROM-resident monitor mode that enables in-system programming and debugging via its SCI interface using only a UART connection. This eliminates the need for dedicated programming hardware during development and field firmware updates, provided the RESET and SCI pins are accessible and properly configured per the monitor entry sequence.

How many analog input channels does the ADC in the MC908AP8ACBE support?

The MC908AP8ACBE integrates a 10-bit successive-approximation ADC with eight analog input channels mapped to PTC2–PTC5 and PTD0–PTD3. These inputs support single-ended configuration with programmable sample time and conversion triggers from software, timer overflow, or external events - enabling flexible sensor interfacing in resource-constrained designs.

What low-power modes are available on the MC908AP8ACBE and how do they differ?

The MC908AP8ACBE supports Wait and Stop modes. Wait mode halts the CPU while preserving register contents and enabling wake-up via IRQ, KBI, or SCI activity. Stop mode disables the oscillator and most clocks, reducing current consumption to ~1 µA; wake-up occurs only via RESET, IRQ, or KBI. Both modes are controlled via the STOP and WAIT instructions and managed by the SIM module.

Is the MC908AP8ACBE pin-compatible with other devices in the AP-family?

Yes, the MC908AP8ACBE shares identical 44-pin QFP packaging and pin assignments with MC908AP16ACBE, MC908AP32ACBE, and MC908AP64ACBE. This allows hardware reuse across memory variants - for example, a PCB designed for MC908AP8ACBE can accept MC908AP16ACBE without layout changes, simplifying scalability and inventory management for tiered product families.