NXP Semiconductors MC9S08QE4CTG

Overview

MC9S08QE4CTG from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller with 4 KB flash, 256 B RAM, and integrated peripherals including 12-bit ADC, dual analog comparators, SPI/I²C/SCI interfaces, two 16-bit TPM modules, RTC, and low-power stop3 mode consuming 0.4–6 µA. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V across –40 °C to +85 °C and targets battery-powered sensor nodes and industrial control subsystems.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08QE4CTG datasheet, MC9S08QE4CTG pinout, MC9S08QE4CTG application, or MC9S08QE4CTG equivalent, this page delivers verified package mapping (32-pin QFN, case 2078-01), confirmed pin functions per official pin assignment diagrams, validated low-power timing (6 µs wake-up from stop3), real-world peripheral interoperability (LIN-capable SCI, I²C broadcast mode), and direct alternative part comparisons grounded in Freescale/NXP documentation.

Technical Context

The MC9S08QE4CTG 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 enabling ±2% bus frequency accuracy from 1 MHz to 10 MHz across voltage and temperature.

Peripherals include a 10-channel 12-bit ADC with 2.5 µs conversion time and internal temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C), two ACMPs with edge-selectable interrupts and bandgap reference option, and dual 3-channel TPMs supporting input capture, output compare, and PWM generation - all functional in stop3 mode with external clock or LPO.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08QE4CTG is packaged in a 32-pin QFN (case 2078-01) with exposed thermal pad, compatible with copper-wire assembly per Freescale QFN Addendum Rev. 0 (2014). Pin functions match the MC9S08QE8 series 32-pin LQFP/QFN assignment diagram (Figure 2, MC9S08QE8 Series Data Sheet Rev. 8).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08QE4CTG, MC9S08QE8CTG offers double flash/RAM with zero hardware change, while S9KEAZ128AMLH provides ARM-class processing at the cost of full firmware re-architecture - making the former ideal for incremental upgrades and the latter for greenfield performance-critical applications.

Availability

MC9S08QE4CTG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart sensor nodes, industrial motor control subsystems, and automotive body controllers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across manufacturing lots.

Supply support for MC9S08QE4CTG 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 qualification, documentation, and long-term product support.

The MC9S08QE4CTG belongs to the QE-series HCS08 microcontrollers designed specifically for cost-sensitive, ultra-low-power embedded control in industrial, automotive, and consumer applications - emphasizing minimal external components, robust EMC behavior, and seamless debug integration.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S08QE4CTG CPU core?

The MC9S08QE4CTG CPU core operates at up to 20 MHz when supplied at 3.6 V across the full temperature range (–40 °C to +85 °C). Bus frequency is derived from the internal clock source (ICS) or external oscillator (XOSC); the ICS supports bus frequencies from 1 MHz to 10 MHz with ±2% accuracy over voltage and temperature, while XOSC supports crystal/resonator inputs from 31.25 kHz to 16 MHz.

Does the MC9S08QE4CTG support in-circuit debugging, and what interface is used?

Yes, the MC9S08QE4CTG supports in-circuit debugging via a single-wire background debug (BDC) interface using the PTA4/BKGD pin. This allows full breakpoint setting, register inspection, and flash programming without requiring a multi-pin JTAG header. The debug module includes two additional hardware breakpoints and an eight-deep FIFO for trace data, enabling efficient development on space-constrained PCBs.

What are the key low-power features of the MC9S08QE4CTG relevant to battery-operated devices?

The MC9S08QE4CTG offers multiple low-power modes optimized for battery longevity: stop3 mode draws just 0.4–6 µA depending on temperature and configuration, with a 6 µs wake-up time; the on-chip low-power oscillator (LPO) sustains RTC operation during stop3; and peripheral clock gating allows selective module shutdown. These features collectively enable multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries in sensor applications.

Can the MC9S08QE4CTG ADC operate during low-power stop modes?

Yes, the 12-bit ADC in the MC9S08QE4CTG remains fully functional in stop3 mode when powered by the internal voltage regulator and clocked by the low-power oscillator (LPO) or external source. It supports automatic channel scanning, temperature sensor readout (1.7 mV/°C), and internal bandgap reference - enabling periodic environmental monitoring without waking the CPU, thereby minimizing average system current.

Is the MC9S08QE4CTG pin-compatible with other members of the QE-series, such as the MC9S08QE8CTG?

Yes, the MC9S08QE4CTG is pin-compatible with the MC9S08QE8CTG in the same 32-pin QFN package (case 2078-01). Both share identical pin assignments, electrical characteristics, and peripheral mappings per the MC9S08QE8 Series Data Sheet Rev. 8. This allows direct substitution where increased flash (8 KB) or RAM (512 B) is required, without PCB or schematic changes.