NXP Semiconductors MC9S08QA4CDNE

Overview

MC9S08QA4CDNE from NXP (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller in an 8-pin DFN package, featuring 4 KB flash, 256 B RAM, 10-bit ADC with temperature sensor, analog comparator, TPM timer, and internal clock source with FLL. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V at up to 20 MHz across –40°C to +85°C, targeting ultra-low-power embedded control in space-constrained applications.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08QA4CDNE datasheet, MC9S08QA4CDNE pinout, MC9S08QA4CDNE application, or MC9S08QA4CDNE equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-pin DFN footprint, stop3-mode operation with ADC/ACMP active, internal bandgap-referenced analog peripherals, and single-wire background debug interface for minimal debug footprint.

Technical Context

The MC9S08QA4CDNE implements the HCS08 CPU core with HC08 instruction set plus BGND, supporting up to 32 interrupt/reset sources and operating at bus frequencies from 1 MHz to 10 MHz via its internal clock source (ICS) with frequency-locked loop (FLL) and factory-trimmed internal reference (±2% deviation over voltage/temperature).

Its on-chip analog subsystem includes a 4-channel 10-bit ADC with automatic compare, internal 1.7 mV/°C temperature sensor, and bandgap reference channel - all functional in stop3 mode - alongside an analog comparator with edge-selectable interrupt and internal tie to TPM input capture.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08QA4CDNE is housed in an 8-pin DFN (Dual Flat No-lead) package, 3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, thermally enhanced with exposed pad. Pinout conforms to SOIC/DIP/DFN pin-compatible assignment per MC9S08QA4 datasheet.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08QA4CDNE, MC9S08QG4CDTE offers identical functionality in a different package with trade-offs in thermal dissipation and solderability, while S9KEAZ128AMLH provides architectural scalability at the cost of size, power, and toolchain migration - neither is pin-compatible nor functionally interchangeable without redesign.

Availability

MC9S08QA4CDNE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart sensor nodes, low-power industrial monitors, and consumer appliance controls requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MC9S08QA4CDNE 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.

The MC9S08QA4CDNE belongs to NXP's legacy HCS08 microcontroller family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded control applications demanding ultra-low-power operation and integrated analog functionality.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S08QA4CDNE?

The MC9S08QA4CDNE supports a maximum bus frequency of 10 MHz via its internal clock source (ICS) with frequency-locked loop (FLL). At 3.6 V supply, the HCS08 CPU core can execute instructions at up to 20 MHz, though actual throughput depends on bus frequency and instruction cycle count. This specification is verified across the full –40°C to +85°C temperature range and 1.8–3.6 V supply voltage.

Does the MC9S08QA4CDNE support analog-to-digital conversion in low-power modes?

Yes, the MC9S08QA4CDNE supports full ADC operation-including 4-channel sampling, automatic compare, and use of the internal temperature sensor-in stop3 mode. This capability enables wake-on-analog-event functionality with typical stop3 current below 1 μA, making it ideal for battery-powered sensing applications where continuous CPU operation is unnecessary.

What debug interface does the MC9S08QA4CDNE provide?

The MC9S08QA4CDNE features a single-wire background debug (BDM) interface accessible through the PTA4/BKGD pin. It supports in-circuit programming, erasing, and debugging with one hardware breakpoint. No external debug adapter is required beyond a compatible BDM pod, and the interface remains functional even when other I/O pins are repurposed, preserving design flexibility in the 8-pin DFN package.

Is the MC9S08QA4CDNE pin-compatible with other members of the QA-series?

Yes, the MC9S08QA4CDNE shares identical pin assignments with MC9S08QA2CDNE and MC9S08QG4CDTE within the same 8-pin DFN or TSSOP packages. However, differences in flash size (4 KB vs. 2 KB) and memory mapping require firmware validation; electrical and mechanical pin compatibility is confirmed per Freescale's MC9S08QA4 datasheet and pinout diagrams.

What protection features does the MC9S08QA4CDNE include for firmware security?

The MC9S08QA4CDNE integrates flash block protection and security circuitry that prevents unauthorized read-out of both flash and RAM contents. Once enabled, this lock disables background debug access and inhibits external attempts to extract firmware - a requirement for protecting proprietary algorithms in deployed devices. Configuration is controlled via FOPT and FPROT registers per the reference manual.