NXP Semiconductors MC908JL8CDWE

Overview

MC908JL8CDWE from Freescale Semiconductor is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 8 KB on-chip Flash memory, 512 B RAM, and integrated peripherals including a 10-bit ADC (8-channel), SCI serial interface, TIM timer module, and KBI keyboard interrupt controller. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency and supports 3.3 V or 5 V supply, targeting low-cost embedded control in appliance motor drives and industrial sensor nodes.

For engineers reviewing the MC908JL8CDWE datasheet, MC908JL8CDWE pinout, MC908JL8CDWE application, or MC908JL8CDWE equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin SOIC-W package, internal RC oscillator option, COP watchdog, LVI reset protection, and ROM-based monitor for in-system programming-critical for cost-sensitive, space-constrained MCU deployments.

Technical Context

The MC908JL8CDWE implements the HCS08 CPU core with enhanced addressing modes and a 16-bit index register, executing instructions at up to 8 MHz bus clock derived from internal RC or external crystal oscillator. Its System Integration Module (SIM) manages reset sources-including POR, LVI, COP timeout, and illegal opcode-and supports Wait/Stop low-power modes with selective peripheral clock gating.

Peripheral integration includes a 10-bit successive-approximation ADC with 8 analog inputs and programmable conversion timing, a full-duplex SCI supporting asynchronous communication at baud rates up to 115.2 kbps, and a dual-channel Timer Interface Module (TIM) with input capture, output compare, and PWM generation capabilities-all accessible via dedicated I/O pins mapped to PORTD and PORTE.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC908JL8CDWE is housed in a 20-pin SOIC-W (Small Outline Integrated Circuit, Wide-body) package with 0.600-inch body width and 0.025-inch lead pitch, optimized for automated assembly and thermal performance in industrial ambient conditions.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC908JL8CDWE, MC908JK8CDWE trades KBI and ADC channels for lower cost and smaller Flash, while MC9RS08KA8CW upgrades core architecture and adds USB at the expense of pin compatibility and increased complexity-making MC908JL8CDWE optimal for stable, cost-sensitive, non-USB embedded control.

Availability

MC908JL8CDWE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for home appliance control, industrial sensor nodes, motorized HVAC actuators, and smart power outlets requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MC908JL8CDWE 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, known for automotive, industrial, and consumer microcontrollers with robust qualification and long-term support.

The MC908JL8CDWE belongs to the HCS08 family designed for cost-effective, low-power 8-bit control in appliances and industrial equipment-emphasizing integration, reliability, and ease of in-field programming.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC908JL8CDWE?

The MC908JL8CDWE supports a maximum bus clock frequency of 8 MHz, achievable using either the internal RC oscillator (factory-trimmed to 8 MHz ±2%) or an external crystal up to 8 MHz. This frequency determines instruction execution speed and peripheral timing-critical for real-time response in motor control and sensor sampling loops within the MC908JL8CDWE.

Does the MC908JL8CDWE include a hardware watchdog timer?

Yes, the MC908JL8CDWE integrates a Computer Operating Properly (COP) watchdog timer with configurable timeout periods ranging from 0.5 ms to 1.6 s. It requires periodic servicing via software write to prevent reset, and supports windowed operation to detect both premature and delayed servicing-ensuring robust fault recovery in the MC908JL8CDWE's embedded control applications.

Can the MC908JL8CDWE perform in-system programming without an external programmer?

Yes, the MC908JL8CDWE contains a dedicated Monitor ROM (MON) that enables in-system programming via its SCI interface. Using standard UART commands, users can erase, program, and verify Flash memory directly on the target board-eliminating the need for external debug probes and simplifying firmware updates throughout the MC908JL8CDWE's product lifecycle.

What analog input resolution does the MC908JL8CDWE ADC provide?

The MC908JL8CDWE features a 10-bit successive-approximation ADC with 8 single-ended input channels. It delivers 1024 discrete digital codes across the selected reference voltage range (typically VDD), enabling precise measurement of analog signals such as temperature, pressure, or battery voltage in applications relying on the MC908JL8CDWE's integrated data acquisition capability.

Is the MC908JL8CDWE pin-compatible with other members of the HCS08 family?

The MC908JL8CDWE shares the same 20-pin SOIC-W package and core pinout with MC908JK8CDWE and MC908JL3CDWE, but differs in peripheral mapping-for example, PTA6 serves dual roles (KBI6/OSC2) only in the JL8 variant. Always verify signal routing and CONFIG register settings when substituting, as functional equivalence does not guarantee drop-in replacement across all HCS08 variants including the MC908JL8CDWE.