NXP Semiconductors MC9S08LH36CLH

Overview

MC9S08LH36CLH from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an automotive-grade 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller with 36 KB flash, 4 KB RAM, integrated LCD driver (8×24 or 4×28), 8-channel 16-bit ADC, dual TPM modules, I²C, SPI, two SCI interfaces, analog comparator, and time-of-day module - designed for low-power instrument cluster and body control applications.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08LH36CLH datasheet, MC9S08LH36CLH pinout, MC9S08LH36CLH application, or MC9S08LH36CLH equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin LQFP package, VREFO2 voltage reference output, stop3-mode wakeup in 6 μs, 1.8–3.6 V operation, and AEC-Q100 qualified robustness for automotive interior electronics.

Technical Context

The MC9S08LH36CLH implements the HCS08 CPU core with BGND instruction support and handles up to 32 interrupt/reset sources. Its internal clock source (ICS) uses a frequency-locked loop (FLL) with precision-trimmed internal reference (±2% over voltage/temperature), enabling bus frequencies from 1 MHz to 20 MHz.

Power management includes two low-power stop modes, reduced-power wait mode, peripheral clock gating, and a very low-power external oscillator usable in stop2/stop3 for TOD module timing. The device supports 6 μs typical wakeup from stop3 mode and retains RAM at voltages down to 0.6 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08LH36CLH is housed in a 64-pin LQFP (Case 840F, 10 mm × 10 mm) with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin functions are multiplexed across GPIO, peripherals, and dedicated signals including VREFO2, BKGD, IRQ, and LCD segment drivers.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08LH64CLH, the MC9S08LH36CLH offers identical peripheral sets and low-power behavior but with reduced flash and LCD capacity in a smaller 64-pin package - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive displays. Versus S9KEAZN64ACLH, it trades 32-bit capability for proven 8-bit efficiency, integrated display support, and lower BOM cost.

Availability

MC9S08LH36CLH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, body control modules, HVAC interfaces, and motorcycle dashboard systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant reliability.

Supply support for MC9S08LH36CLH 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 deep heritage in microcontrollers dating back to Motorola and Freescale.

The MC9S08LH36CLH belongs to the HCS08-based LH series, engineered specifically for low-power, cost-optimized automotive interior electronics - emphasizing integrated LCD driving, robust EMC performance, and extended temperature operation without external support components.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S08LH36CLH?

The MC9S08LH36CLH supports up to 40 MHz CPU operation at 3.6 V to 2.1 V across –40 °C to +85 °C, and up to 20 MHz at 2.1 V to 1.8 V. Bus frequency is derived from the internal clock source (ICS) FLL, configurable from 1 MHz to 20 MHz. Actual achievable frequency depends on supply voltage and temperature - refer to Table 9 in the Rev. 6 datasheet for exact timing limits per condition. The MC9S08LH36CLH does not support 40 MHz operation below 2.1 V.

Does the MC9S08LH36CLH support in-circuit debugging?

Yes, the MC9S08LH36CLH includes a single-wire background debug interface (BKGD) on PTC6, enabling full in-circuit emulation via the on-chip ICE debug module. It supports one hardware breakpoint during active debugging plus two additional breakpoints within the debug module, along with three comparators and nine trigger modes. This allows non-intrusive code inspection and real-time variable monitoring without requiring dedicated debug pins beyond BKGD.

What LCD configurations does the MC9S08LH36CLH support?

The MC9S08LH36CLH supports two LCD configurations: 8×24 (8 commons, 24 segments) or 4×28 (4 commons, 28 segments), implemented using dedicated LCD[0:31] pins plus auxiliary segment drivers. Unlike the 80-pin LH64 variant, the 64-pin MC9S08LH36CLH does not support LCD[32:43] or 8×36 mode. The internal charge pump and trimmable VREFO2 output provide regulated contrast voltage without external components.

Is the MC9S08LH36CLH AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the MC9S08LH36CLH is AEC-Q100 qualified per Grade 2 (–40 °C to +105 °C ambient) requirements, covering stress tests for ESD (HBM ±2000 V, CDM ±500 V), latch-up (±100 mA), thermal cycling, and high-temperature operating life. This qualification confirms suitability for automotive interior electronics where reliability under vibration, temperature extremes, and electrical noise is mandatory - as documented in Freescale's MC9S08LH64 Series Data Sheet Rev. 6.

What is the function of the VREFO2 pin on the MC9S08LH36CLH?

VREFO2 on the MC9S08LH36CLH is a dedicated, trimmable 1.15 V voltage reference output used primarily for LCD contrast control. It is programmable in 0.5 mV steps via an 8-bit register and remains active in stop3 low-power mode. Unlike VREFO1 (available only on LH64), VREFO2 is exclusive to the 64-pin LH36 variant and connects internally to the LCD charge pump - enabling precise, software-adjustable display bias without external DACs or resistive dividers.