NXP Semiconductors MC9S08GT8ACBE

Overview

MC9S08GT8ACBE from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller with 8 KB flash, 512 B RAM, 40-MHz CPU, and integrated peripherals including dual SCI, SPI, I²C, 10-bit ATD, and dual TPM modules. It operates from 1.8–3.6 V and supports three low-power stop modes, making it suitable for battery-powered industrial sensors and motor control interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08GT8ACBE datasheet, MC9S08GT8ACBE pinout, MC9S08GT8ACBE application, or MC9S08GT8ACBE equivalent, key selection criteria include its 32-pin QFN package, internal FLL clock generator with ±0.5% deviation over voltage/temperature, single-wire background debug interface, and support for real-time interrupt during all power modes.

Technical Context

The MC9S08GT8ACBE implements the HCS08 CPU core with HC08 instruction set plus BGND, supporting up to 32 interrupt/reset sources and a programmable 3-channel + 2-channel timer/PWM system. Its internal clock generator uses a frequency-locked loop (FLL) with selectable sources: internal reference, external crystal (32 kHz–4 MHz), or resonator.

Peripherals include two serial communications interfaces (SCI1/SCI2), one SPI module, one I²C bus module, an 8-channel 10-bit analog-to-digital converter (ATD), and an 8-pin keyboard interrupt (KBI) module. Power management includes three stop modes with optional low-voltage detect (LVD) reset/interrupt and COP watchdog.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08GT8ACBE is housed in a 32-pin QFN package (98ASA00473D) with exposed thermal pad, copper-wire bonding, and 0.5 mm pitch. The package supports compact PCB layout and efficient thermal dissipation in space-constrained applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08GT8ACBE, S9KEAZ8AMLH delivers higher computational throughput but demands architectural redesign, while MC9RS08KA2 retains software compatibility at the expense of peripheral capability and memory - making MC9S08GT8ACBE optimal for balanced feature-rich 8-bit control.

Availability

MC9S08GT8ACBE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, motor control interfaces, smart meter front-ends, and home appliance UI controllers requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC9S08GT8ACBE 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 company formed from the spin-off of Philips' semiconductor division, now specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.

The HCS08 microcontroller family - including MC9S08GT8ACBE - was designed for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded control applications requiring robust peripheral integration, debug flexibility, and long-lifecycle availability in industrial and consumer equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S08GT8ACBE?

The MC9S08GT8ACBE features a 40-MHz bus frequency enabled by its internal frequency-locked loop (FLL). This maximum speed is achievable using internal or external clock sources with appropriate FLL configuration. The HCS08 CPU core executes instructions at this bus rate, delivering deterministic real-time performance for time-critical control loops in the MC9S08GT8ACBE.

Does the MC9S08GT8ACBE support in-circuit debugging?

Yes, the MC9S08GT8ACBE includes a single-wire background debug (BDM) interface compliant with Freescale's BDM specification. It supports breakpoint setting, real-time bus capture via an on-chip ICE debug module, and two additional hardware breakpoints. This allows full visibility into program flow and register states during development without requiring external JTAG adapters - a key capability built into the MC9S08GT8ACBE.

What analog capabilities does the MC9S08GT8ACBE provide?

The MC9S08GT8ACBE integrates an 8-channel, 10-bit analog-to-digital converter (ATD) with programmable sample time, conversion triggers (software, timer, or external), and configurable reference voltages (VREFH/VREFL). It supports differential and single-ended input modes and maps analog inputs to Port B pins - enabling precise sensor signal acquisition directly within the MC9S08GT8ACBE without external ADC components.

Can the MC9S08GT8ACBE operate from a single 1.8-V supply?

Yes, the MC9S08GT8ACBE supports full functionality - including FLASH programming and erasure - down to 1.8 V. Its internal voltage regulator and low-voltage detect (LVD) circuitry ensure reliable operation across the 1.8–3.6 V range. This wide supply tolerance makes the MC9S08GT8ACBE suitable for energy-harvesting and coin-cell-powered applications where supply voltage may vary significantly - a design strength of the MC9S08GT8ACBE.

What package type and pin count does the MC9S08GT8ACBE use?

The MC9S08GT8ACBE is supplied in a 32-pin QFN package (case outline 98ASA00473D) with 0.5 mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This copper-wire-bonded package replaces earlier gold-wire variants and is optimized for automated assembly and thermal performance in compact industrial modules. The pinout matches the MC9S08GT16A/GT8A family specification - confirming mechanical and electrical compatibility for the MC9S08GT8ACBE.