NXP Semiconductors MC9S08LL8CGT

Overview

MC9S08LL8CGT from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller designed for ultra-low-power LCD-based embedded applications. It features 10,240 bytes of dual-array FLASH, 2080 bytes of RAM, a 12-bit ADC with temperature sensor, analog comparator, and integrated 4×28/8×16 LCD driver with internal charge pump - all operating from 1.8 V to 3.6 V across –40°C to +85°C. It targets battery-powered metering, portable medical devices, and industrial control panels.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08LL8CGT datasheet, MC9S08LL8CGT pinout, MC9S08LL8CGT application, or MC9S08LL8CGT equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-validated pin functions, real-world use cases, and two confirmed alternative parts - all grounded in Freescale's MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7 and QFN Addendum Rev. 0.

Technical Context

The MC9S08LL8CGT 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 factory-trimmed internal reference (±2% deviation over voltage/temperature), enabling bus frequencies from 1 MHz to 10 MHz without external crystal.

It integrates a low-power real-time subsystem: a dedicated 1-kHz low-power oscillator supports Stop3 mode wake-up in 6 µs, while the Time-of-Day (TOD) module provides quarter-second counting with external clock option for calendar/timekeeping. The LCD driver operates with internal regulated VLCD and programmable contrast trimming via bandgap reference.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08LL8CGT is housed in a 48-pin QFN (98ASA00466D) with exposed thermal pad, measuring 7 mm × 7 mm × 0.85 mm. Pinout matches the 48-pin QFN/LQFP variant defined in Figure 3 and Table 2 of MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08LL8CGT, MC9S08LL16CGT offers scalable FLASH and retained hardware compatibility, while S9KEAZ128AMLH provides architectural upgrade path at the cost of full redesign - making the former ideal for incremental feature enhancement and the latter for platform modernization.

Availability

MC9S08LL8CGT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, portable medical instrumentation, and industrial HMI applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MC9S08LL8CGT 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 acquired Freescale in 2015 and maintains full support for the legacy HCS08 portfolio, including documentation, tools, and long-term supply commitments for industrial and automotive customers.

The MC9S08LL8CGT belongs to the MC9S08LL16 Series - a family engineered specifically for ultra-low-power LCD microcontroller applications in utility metering, healthcare, and building automation where battery life and display integration are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum bus frequency supported by the MC9S08LL8CGT?

The MC9S08LL8CGT supports a maximum bus frequency of 10 MHz, achieved using the internal clock source (ICS) with its frequency-locked loop (FLL) and factory-trimmed internal reference. This frequency is guaranteed across the full operating voltage range (1.8 V to 3.6 V) and temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), as specified in Section 3.9 of the MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7. The MC9S08LL8CGT does not support external crystal operation above 16 MHz.

Does the MC9S08LL8CGT support in-circuit debugging?

Yes, the MC9S08LL8CGT supports single-wire background debug via the PTC6/BKGD pin, with breakpoint capability and an on-chip in-circuit emulator (ICE) debug module containing three comparators and nine trigger modes. This is fully documented in Section 1.3 ("Development Support") of the MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7. The MC9S08LL8CGT shares the same debug architecture as the MC9S08LL16, requiring only one dedicated pin and no external debug probe hardware.

What LCD configurations does the MC9S08LL8CGT support in its 48-pin QFN package?

In the 48-pin QFN package, the MC9S08LL8CGT supports either 4×28 or 8×16 LCD segment configurations, as confirmed in Table 1 ("MC9S08LL16 Series Features by MCU and Package") of the MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7. The 48-pin variant omits LCD[23:16], limiting full 8×24 support - unlike the 64-pin LQFP version. Segment mapping and bias generation are handled entirely on-chip via the integrated charge pump and VLCD regulation circuitry.

Is the MC9S08LL8CGT pin-compatible with other members of the MC9S08LL16 Series?

Yes, the MC9S08LL8CGT is pin-compatible with the MC9S08LL16CGT in the 48-pin QFN package (98ASA00466D), sharing identical pin assignments, electrical characteristics, and peripheral mappings per Figures 3 and Table 2 of the MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7. Both parts use the same footprint, thermal pad layout, and decoupling requirements - enabling direct substitution where FLASH size suffices.

What is the minimum supply voltage required to retain RAM contents in the MC9S08LL8CGT?

RAM retention in the MC9S08LL8CGT is guaranteed down to 0.6 V, as specified in Table 8 ("DC Characteristics"), parameter #17 (VRAM) of the MC9S08LL16 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7. This ultra-low retention voltage allows the device to preserve calibration data and operational state during deep brown-out conditions typical in primary lithium battery applications, even after main supply collapse.