NXP Semiconductors MC908GT16CFBER

Overview

MC908GT16CFBER from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 16 KB on-chip flash memory, 512 B RAM, and integrated peripherals including 8-channel 10-bit ADC, ESCI UART, SPI, TIM, TBM, KBI, and COP watchdog. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency and supports 2.7–5.5 V supply, targeting embedded control in industrial sensors and appliance motor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MC908GT16CFBER datasheet, MC908GT16CFBER pinout, MC908GT16CFBER application, or MC908GT16CFBER equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-validated pin functions, real-world use cases, and two confirmed alternative MCU options for cost, longevity, or toolchain alignment.

Technical Context

The MC908GT16CFBER implements the HCS08 CPU core with 16-bit addressing, 41-instruction set, and Harvard architecture. Its internal clock generator includes a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) with ±4% factory trim accuracy, programmable modulo-N divider, and clock monitor circuit that triggers reset on external or internal clock failure.

Peripheral integration includes a 10-bit successive-approximation ADC with configurable sample time and reference pins (VREFH/VREFL), ESCI module supporting asynchronous UART with selectable baud rates, and dual timer modules (TIM and TBM) enabling input capture, output compare, and PWM generation with independent prescalers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC908GT16CFBER is housed in a 44-pin QFP (Quad Flat Package) with 0.8 mm pitch, measuring 10 × 10 mm. The package supports reflow soldering and provides full I/O access across five ports (A–E), power/ground pairs, and dedicated analog reference pins.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC908GT16CFBER, MC9S08GB60CFB offers greater memory headroom but lacks keyboard scan hardware, while S9KEAZ128AMLH delivers ARM-class performance and peripheral richness at the cost of legacy code compatibility and increased design complexity.

Availability

MC908GT16CFBER is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, appliance motor controllers, smart meter interfaces, and factory automation I/O modules requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC908GT16CFBER 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 applications, with roots in Freescale's embedded MCU heritage.

The MC908GT16CFBER belongs to the HCS08 family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded control applications where deterministic real-time response and peripheral integration outweigh raw processing throughput.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC908GT16CFBER?

The MC908GT16CFBER supports a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, derived from its internal clock generator or external crystal. This frequency determines instruction execution speed, ADC conversion rate, and UART baud accuracy. At 8 MHz, the HCS08 core executes most instructions in 1–2 bus cycles, enabling sub-millisecond control loop timing critical for motor and sensor applications. The MC908GT16CFBER datasheet specifies timing parameters under both 3.0 V and 5.0 V conditions.

Does the MC908GT16CFBER include a hardware watchdog timer?

Yes, the MC908GT16CFBER integrates a Computer Operating Properly (COP) watchdog module with programmable timeout ranging from 1.1 ms to 2.2 s. It uses an independent clock source (COPCLK) to detect software lockups even if the main system clock fails. The COP must be periodically cleared by firmware; failure to do so triggers a hardware reset. This feature is enabled via the CONFIG register and is fully documented in Chapter 5 of the MC908GT16CFBER datasheet.

Can the MC908GT16CFBER operate from a 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the MC908GT16CFBER is fully specified for operation from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, making it compatible with standard 3.3 V systems. Electrical characteristics-including flash programming voltage, ADC accuracy, and I/O high/low levels-are guaranteed across this range. When powered at 3.3 V, the maximum bus frequency remains 8 MHz, and all peripherals (ESCI, SPI, TIM) function identically, though current consumption decreases versus 5 V operation.

How many ADC channels does the MC908GT16CFBER support?

The MC908GT16CFBER features an 8-channel, 10-bit successive-approximation ADC. Channels map to Port B pins PTB0–PTB7 (AD0–AD7), allowing simultaneous analog sensing across multiple sensors. Conversion time is programmable from 12 to 2048 bus cycles, and the ADC supports both single-ended and differential input modes using VREFH and VREFL as reference inputs. Calibration and offset correction are supported in firmware.

Is there official development hardware for the MC908GT16CFBER?

Yes - the DEMO908GT16 demonstration board was officially released by Freescale for the MC908GT16CFBER and related variants. It includes on-board debugging via BDM interface, user LEDs/switches, RS-232 transceiver, and headers for all I/O pins. While discontinued, functional units remain available through authorized distributors and secondary markets. Firmware examples and schematics are archived in the MC908GT16CFBER reference manual and application notes.