NXP Semiconductors MC9S08QA2CPAE

Overview

MC9S08QA2CPAE from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller designed for ultra-low-power embedded control in space-constrained applications. It features a 20 MHz CPU core, 2 KB flash memory, 160 B RAM, 10-bit ADC with temperature sensor, analog comparator, single-channel TPM, and integrated internal clock source with FLL. It operates across 1.8–3.6 V and –40°C to +85°C, targeting battery-powered sensor nodes and simple motor controls.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08QA2CPAE datasheet, MC9S08QA2CPAE pinout, MC9S08QA2CPAE application, or MC9S08QA2CPAE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-specific pin mapping, real-world use cases, and validated alternative parts - all grounded in the official MC9S08QA4 Series Data Sheet Rev. 3 (Jan 2009), which explicitly covers MC9S08QA2 variants including CPAE packaging.

Technical Context

The MC9S08QA2CPAE implements the HCS08 CPU core with HC08 instruction set plus BGND, supporting up to 32 interrupt/reset sources and operating at up to 20 MHz bus frequency via its internal clock source (ICS) with frequency-locked-loop (FLL). Its ICS provides trimmed DCO output from 16–20 MHz with ±2% deviation over voltage and temperature.

It integrates on-chip peripherals including a 4-channel 10-bit ADC with 1.7 mV/°C temperature sensor and internal bandgap reference, an analog comparator with edge-selectable interrupt and internal tie to TPM input capture, and a single-channel timer/pulse-width modulator (TPM) supporting input capture, output compare, and PWM modes - all functional down to 1.8 V supply.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08QA2CPAE is housed in an 8-pin narrow-body SOIC (case 751-07), measuring 3.9 mm × 4.9 mm × 1.75 mm, with standard 1.27 mm pitch. Pin functions are software-configurable per port register settings, and all digital inputs include hysteresis and programmable pullup devices.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08QA2CPAE, MC9S08QD2CPAE offers expanded timer capability at identical footprint and voltage range, while S9KEAZ128AMLH delivers 32-bit scalability at the cost of increased BOM complexity and power consumption - making MC9S08QA2CPAE optimal for minimal-cost, ultra-low-power fixed-function control.

Availability

MC9S08QA2CPAE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart sensor nodes, battery-powered medical devices, and industrial pushbutton interfaces requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC9S08QA2CPAE 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 technical and supply chain continuity for the legacy HCS08 portfolio, including long-term product support and documentation archives.

The MC9S08QA2CPAE belongs to the HCS08 QA-series - a family of ultra-low-power, small-footprint 8-bit MCUs specifically architected for cost-sensitive, battery-operated embedded control where minimal code size, sub-µA sleep current, and integrated analog functionality are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum guaranteed bus frequency for MC9S08QA2CPAE?

The MC9S08QA2CPAE guarantees operation up to 10 MHz bus frequency across its full operating voltage (1.8–3.6 V) and temperature (–40°C to +85°C) range. While the internal clock source (ICS) can be trimmed to support up to 20 MHz under specific conditions, only the 10 MHz rating is fully characterized and guaranteed per the MC9S08QA4 Series Data Sheet Rev. 3 that covers MC9S08QA2CPAE.

Does MC9S08QA2CPAE support in-circuit debugging?

Yes, MC9S08QA2CPAE supports single-wire background debug via the PTA4/BKGD pin. This interface enables full in-circuit programming, breakpoint setting, and real-time variable inspection without halting system operation - confirmed in Section 2.2 ("Development Support") of the official datasheet covering MC9S08QA2 devices.

What are the flash memory endurance and data retention specifications for MC9S08QA2CPAE?

MC9S08QA2CPAE flash memory is rated for 10,000 program/erase cycles at –40°C to +85°C and 100,000 cycles at 25°C. Data retention is specified at >10 years under typical operating conditions, based on intrinsic flash technology characterization documented in Table 14 and Engineering Bulletin EB619/D referenced in the MC9S08QA4 Series Data Sheet Rev. 3.

Can MC9S08QA2CPAE operate from a single 2.0 V supply?

Yes, MC9S08QA2CPAE is fully operational from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, including at 2.0 V. All peripherals - including the 10-bit ADC, analog comparator, TPM, and RTI - retain full functionality down to 1.8 V, as verified in Tables 6 (DC Characteristics), 11 (ACMP), and 12–13 (ADC) of the MC9S08QA4 Series Data Sheet Rev. 3.

Is there a hardware reset pin on MC9S08QA2CPAE, and how is it configured?

Yes, MC9S08QA2CPAE uses PTA5 as a multifunction pin that can be configured as RESET. When RSTPE = 1, it activates an internal pullup resistor (17.5–52.5 kΩ) and accepts an active-low reset pulse ≥100 ns wide. The pin lacks a clamp diode to VDD and must not be driven above VDD - details confirmed in Figure 2, Table 1, and Section 3.2 of the official datasheet.