NXP Semiconductors MC908QL3CDWE

Overview

MC908QL3CDWE from Freescale Semiconductor is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller with 4 KB FLASH, 192 B RAM, 10-bit ADC (8 channels), LIN 2.0-compliant SLIC module, and internal 32 MHz oscillator trimmed to ±2% accuracy. It operates from 2.7–5.5 V and supports Wait/Stop low-power modes for automotive body electronics and industrial control nodes.

For engineers reviewing the MC908QL3CDWE datasheet, MC908QL3CDWE pinout, MC908QL3CDWE application, or MC908QL3CDWE equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, validated TSSOP-28 package mapping, confirmed LIN bus timing compliance, and two field-tested alternative parts for cost or supply continuity planning.

Technical Context

The MC908QL3CDWE implements the HCS08 CPU core with 20 MHz max bus frequency, supporting WAIT/STOP instructions and COP watchdog reset. Its SLIC module handles LIN master/slave frame generation, checksum calculation, and automatic sync-break detection per ISO 9141-2 and LIN 2.0 standards.

ADC10 features programmable sample time, selectable reference (VREFH/VSSA or internal bandgap), and conversion completion interrupt. The Auto Wakeup Module (AWU) provides configurable wake-from-Stop via external pin or internal timer, enabling sub-1 µA standby current in battery-powered sensors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC908QL3CDWE is housed in a 28-pin Thin Shrink Small Outline Package (TSSOP) with 0.65 mm pitch, JEDEC MO-153 compliant, and thermal pad exposed on underside for enhanced heat dissipation in compact PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC908QL4CDWE, the MC908QL3CDWE trades FLASH capacity for lower unit cost and smaller die size, while retaining identical LIN timing, ADC accuracy, and low-power behavior. Against S9KEAZ128AMLH, it offers proven qualification for legacy automotive platforms but lacks ARM ecosystem tooling and multi-protocol flexibility.

Availability

MC908QL3CDWE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor nodes, and smart actuator interfaces requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MC908QL3CDWE 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) pioneered mixed-signal microcontrollers for automotive and industrial markets, emphasizing robustness, qualification rigor, and long-term supply commitment.

The MC908QL3CDWE belongs to the HCS08 QL family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive LIN slave nodes in automotive body electronics where integration, low power, and AEC-Q100 qualification are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum bus clock frequency supported by the MC908QL3CDWE?

The MC908QL3CDWE supports a maximum bus clock frequency of 20 MHz, derived from its internal oscillator (trimmed to ±2%) or external crystal source. This frequency enables real-time execution of LIN protocol timing, ADC conversions, and PWM generation without pipeline stalls. The MC908QL3CDWE's HCS08 core executes most instructions in 1–2 bus cycles, ensuring deterministic response in time-critical automotive functions.

Does the MC908QL3CDWE include hardware support for LIN communication?

Yes, the MC908QL3CDWE integrates a Slave LIN Interface Controller (SLIC) module compliant with LIN 2.0 and ISO 9141-2 standards. It handles sync-break detection, header generation, checksum calculation, and frame buffering in hardware - offloading >70% of LIN protocol processing from the CPU. The MC908QL3CDWE requires only external passive components (1 kΩ pull-up, 1 nF capacitor) on SLTX/SLRX pins to meet physical layer specifications.

What are the low-power capabilities of the MC908QL3CDWE?

The MC908QL3CDWE supports Wait mode (CPU halted, peripherals active) and Stop mode (all clocks stopped). In Stop mode with Auto Wakeup Module (AWU) enabled, it achieves <1 µA typical current draw. Wake-up sources include external pins, AWU timer, or LIN bus activity - making the MC908QL3CDWE suitable for battery-powered automotive sensors with multi-year operational life.

Can the MC908QL3CDWE operate without an external crystal?

Yes, the MC908QL3CDWE can operate using its factory-trimmed internal oscillator, rated at ±2% accuracy over –40 °C to +85 °C and 2.7–5.5 V. This eliminates the need for an external crystal in LIN slave applications where baud rate tolerance allows ±1.5% deviation. For master-node timing or tighter UART synchronization, an external 3.58 MHz crystal on OSC1/OSC2 is recommended - and the MC908QL3CDWE supports seamless switching between internal and external sources.

Is the MC908QL3CDWE pin-compatible with other devices in the QL family?

Yes, the MC908QL3CDWE is pin-compatible with MC908QL2CDWE and MC908QL4CDWE in the same TSSOP-28 package. All share identical pin functions, electrical characteristics, and peripheral register maps. Firmware developed for MC908QL3CDWE runs unchanged on MC908QL4CDWE (with expanded FLASH) and MC908QL2CDWE (with reduced FLASH), enabling scalable design reuse across product tiers without PCB revision.