NXP Semiconductors MC908GZ16MFAE

Overview

MC908GZ16MFAE from NXP (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit M68HC08-based microcontroller featuring 16 KB on-chip Flash memory, 512 B RAM, a 10-bit ADC with 8 input channels, integrated MSCAN08 controller, and ESCI/SPI serial interfaces. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency with internal PLL clock generation and supports low-power Wait/Stop modes for automotive body electronics and industrial control.

For engineers reviewing the MC908GZ16MFAE datasheet, MC908GZ16MFAE pinout, MC908GZ16MFAE application, or MC908GZ16MFAE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package mapping, functional pin roles, real-world use cases, and validated alternative parts - all grounded in Freescale's Rev. 4.0 datasheet and official ordering information.

Technical Context

The MC908GZ16MFAE integrates a CPU08 core with 16 KB Flash (block-erasable), 512 B RAM, and a configurable Clock Generator Module (CGM) supporting crystal oscillator + PLL multiplication (×1–×32) for precise bus clock synthesis. Its MSCAN08 module implements ISO 11898-compliant CAN 2.0A/B protocol with three message buffers and programmable bit timing.

Peripheral integration includes a 10-bit ADC with sample-and-hold, ESCI (asynchronous UART), SPI master/slave, two 16-bit timer modules (TIM1/TIM2) with input capture/output compare, KBI for matrix keypad scanning, and COP watchdog with selectable timeout intervals. All peripherals are memory-mapped and accessible via standard M68HC08 instruction set.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC908GZ16MFAE is housed in a 64-pin QFP (Quad Flat Package) with 0.5 mm pitch, measuring 10 mm × 10 mm. The package supports surface-mount reflow assembly and provides full I/O access including dedicated CAN, ADC, and serial interface pins.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC908GZ16MFAE, MC9S08DZ128 offers scalable memory and CAN FD readiness for mid-life design refreshes, while SPC560B50L5 delivers certified safety processing and multi-protocol support - making both unsuitable as drop-in replacements but viable for architecture-level upgrades.

Availability

MC908GZ16MFAE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor nodes, and smart appliance control systems requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MC908GZ16MFAE 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 applications - formed from the spin-off of Freescale Semiconductor in 2015.

The MC908GZ16MFAE belongs to the legacy M68HC08 microcontroller family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability automotive body electronics and industrial control applications where proven silicon, long-term availability, and CAN integration are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum bus frequency supported by the MC908GZ16MFAE?

The MC908GZ16MFAE supports a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, achieved via its internal Clock Generator Module (CGM) with PLL multiplication. This frequency is derived from an external 4–8 MHz crystal oscillator input, with the PLL configured to multiply the base clock - enabling deterministic real-time operation for automotive and industrial timing-critical tasks. The MC908GZ16MFAE maintains this performance across its full −40 °C to +125 °C operating range.

Does the MC908GZ16MFAE include a hardware CAN controller?

Yes, the MC908GZ16MFAE integrates the MSCAN08 controller, a fully compliant ISO 11898-1 CAN 2.0A/B module supporting bit rates up to 1 Mbit/s. It features three message buffers, programmable acceptance filtering, automatic retransmission, and error confinement - eliminating the need for external CAN protocol controllers in body electronics and industrial network nodes. The MC908GZ16MFAE uses dedicated PTC5/CANRX and PTC6/CANTX pins for direct transceiver interfacing.

What packaging and pin count does the MC908GZ16MFAE use?

The MC908GZ16MFAE is supplied in a 64-pin Quad Flat Package (QFP) with 0.5 mm lead pitch and 10 mm × 10 mm body size. This RoHS-compliant package provides full access to all I/O resources including CAN, ADC, ESCI, SPI, and timer signals - supporting standard surface-mount assembly processes. The MC908GZ16MFAE's pinout is documented in Section 1.4 ("Pin Assignments") of the Freescale Rev. 4.0 datasheet.

Can the MC908GZ16MFAE operate from a 3.3 V supply?

No, the MC908GZ16MFAE is specified for 4.5 V to 5.5 V operation only - it is not 3.3 V tolerant. Its internal voltage regulators, Flash programming circuitry, and I/O buffers are designed for 5 V nominal systems. Attempting to power the MC908GZ16MFAE at 3.3 V will result in undefined behavior, failed Flash writes, or inability to meet timing specifications. For 3.3 V designs, consider newer NXP S08 or S32K families.

Is there official development support available for the MC908GZ16MFAE?

Yes - Freescale provided official development tools including the DEMO908GZ16 evaluation board, P&E Micro USB-ML-MON08 debugger, and CodeWarrior Development Studio v5.x with M68HC08 support. While NXP no longer actively develops new tools for this legacy part, Aetrix Electronics maintains access to archived toolchains and reference schematics. The MC908GZ16MFAE remains fully programmable via its on-chip BDM interface using standard MON08 protocol.