NXP Semiconductors MC9S08QE4CWL
- Part No.:
- MC9S08QE4CWL
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 28-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MC9S08QE4CWL.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 8BIT 4KB FLASH 28SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:196
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Product details
Overview
MC9S08QE4CWL from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller in a 32-pin QFN package, featuring 4 KB flash, 256 B RAM, 12-bit ADC, dual analog comparators, SPI/I²C/SCI interfaces, and low-power stop3 mode with 0.4 µA typical current at 3 V. It targets cost-sensitive embedded control in automotive body electronics and industrial sensor nodes.
For engineers reviewing the MC9S08QE4CWL datasheet, MC9S08QE4CWL pinout, MC9S08QE4CWL application, or MC9S08QE4CWL equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package mapping, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options - all grounded in Freescale's MC9S08QE8 Series Data Sheet Rev. 8 and QFN Addendum Rev. 0.
Technical Context
The MC9S08QE4CWL 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 10-channel 12-bit ADC with 2.5 µs conversion time, operation down to 1.8 V, and built-in temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C); two ACMP modules support edge-triggered interrupts and routing to TPM; and the RTC runs on a dedicated 1 kHz low-power oscillator, active in all modes including stop3.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | HCS08 8-bit CPU with BGND instruction and 32 interrupt sources |
| Flash / RAM | 4096 bytes flash (read/program/erase across full voltage/temp range); 256 bytes RAM |
| ADC | 10-channel, 12-bit resolution, 2.5 µs conversion, operates from 3.6 V to 1.8 V |
| Low-Power Modes | Stop3 mode draws 0.4 µA typical at 3 V; 6 µs wake-up time; LPO enables RTC in stop3 |
| Clock Sources | Internal ICS (1–10 MHz bus), external XOSC (31.25 kHz–16 MHz), and 1 kHz LPO for RTC |
| I/O Pins | 26 GPIOs + 1 output-only + 1 input-only; configurable drive strength, slew rate, and pull-ups |
| Package | 32-pin QFN (98ASA00466D), exposed pad, 5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch |
Pinout & Package
MC9S08QE4CWL is housed in a 32-pin QFN package (case number 98ASA00466D), thermally enhanced with an exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments match the MC9S08QE8 series 32-pin LQFP/QFN layout per Figure 2 of the MC9S08QE8 Series Data Sheet Rev. 8.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Power supply | Main digital supply (1.8–3.6 V); decoupling required near pin |
| VSS | Ground | Digital ground reference; connects to exposed thermal pad |
| VDDA/VREFH | Analog power / ADC reference high | Separate analog supply pin; must be bypassed independently for ADC accuracy |
| VSSA/VREFL | Analog ground / ADC reference low | Isolated analog ground; ties to VSS but requires separate PCB pour for noise immunity |
| PTA0–PTA7, PTB0–PTB7, PTC0–PTC7, PTD0–PTD3 | GPIO / peripheral multiplexing | 26 general-purpose I/O pins with alternate functions (TPM, ADC, SCI, I²C, SPI, KBI) |
| PTA4/BKGD/MS | Debug interface | Single-wire background debug (BKGD) pin; bidirectional with open-drain capability |
| PTA5/IRQ/TCLK/RESET | Reset & debug clock | Bi-directional reset pin with internal pull-up; doubles as IRQ input and TCLK for debug |
| PTB6/SDA/XTAL | I²C data / crystal input | Shared SDA (I²C) and XTAL (crystal oscillator input); requires external 32.768 kHz crystal for RTC |
| PTB7/SCL/EXTAL | I²C clock / crystal output | Shared SCL (I²C) and EXTAL (crystal oscillator output); completes 32.768 kHz crystal circuit |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| On-chip security circuitry | Prevents unauthorized read-out of flash and RAM contents via background debug interface |
| Peripheral clock gating | Disables clocks to unused modules (e.g., TPM, ADC) to reduce dynamic current in run/wait modes |
| ADC temperature sensor | Integrated 1.7 mV/°C sensor channel enables system-level thermal monitoring without external components |
| ACMP-to-TPM routing | Analog comparator outputs can directly trigger TPM input capture or PWM reload, enabling hardware-based event response |
| Stop3 mode with RTC | Real-time counter continues running using 1 kHz LPO while CPU and main clocks are halted - ideal for battery-powered wake-up scheduling |
Applications
| Automotive Door Module | Industrial Temperature Sensor Node |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Monitoring window lock status, mirror position, and interior light activation in vehicle door assemblies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central controller managing GPIO-driven actuators, reading potentiometer and switch inputs, and communicating via LIN or SCI to body control module. Use Value: Low-voltage operation (down to 1.8 V) ensures reliable function during cold-crank battery dips; stop3 mode extends battery life in key-off monitoring. |
Use Scenario: Wireless node measuring ambient temperature and humidity in HVAC ducts or factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ADC-acquired sensor data processing unit with I²C interface to digital sensors and SPI to RF transceiver; RTC schedules periodic wake-up and transmission. Use Value: Integrated 12-bit ADC and temperature sensor eliminate external signal conditioning; 0.4 µA stop3 current enables multi-year battery life. |
| Smart Appliance Control Panel | Medical Patient Monitor Front-End |
|
Use Scenario: Keypad scanning, LED backlight dimming, and buzzer feedback in washing machine or oven control panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Keyboard interrupt (KBI) handler with 8-key debounce, PWM-driven LED dimming, and SCI-based communication to main MCU. Use Value: Configurable pull-ups and hysteresis on all inputs tolerate noisy panel wiring; low-power wait mode reduces standby consumption. |
Use Scenario: Signal acquisition front-end for non-invasive vital sign sensors (e.g., pulse oximetry, skin temperature). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Analog front-end controller acquiring conditioned analog signals via ADC, performing basic filtering, and buffering data for transfer via SPI to host processor. Use Value: 12-bit ADC with internal bandgap reference ensures stable measurement accuracy across 1.8–3.6 V supply range; ESD protection (±2 kV HBM) meets medical EMC requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC9S08QE8CWL | 8 KB flash, 512 B RAM, identical peripherals and pinout | Supports larger firmware images and more complex state machines | Select when firmware size exceeds 4 KB or additional RAM is needed for buffering or stack depth |
| S9KEAZ128AMLH | ARM Cortex-M0+, 128 KB flash, 16 KB RAM, higher performance, different architecture and toolchain | Requires migration from HCS08 assembly/C to ARM GCC/Keil; supports RTOS and USB | Choose for future-proofing, higher throughput, or integration of modern protocols - not drop-in compatible |
Compared with MC9S08QE4CWL, MC9S08QE8CWL offers double the memory with zero hardware or software changes, while S9KEAZ128AMLH provides architectural scalability at the cost of full firmware rework and new development investment.
Availability
MC9S08QE4CWL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor nodes, smart appliance control panels, and medical front-end designs requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MC9S08QE4CWL 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, IoT, mobile, and communication infrastructure markets.
The MC9S08QE4CWL belongs to the HCS08-based QE family, designed specifically for energy-efficient, cost-optimized embedded control in resource-constrained applications where low voltage operation, ultra-low sleep current, and integrated analog peripherals are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S08QE4CWL?
The MC9S08QE4CWL supports a maximum CPU frequency of 20 MHz at 3.6 V across the –40 °C to +85 °C temperature range. Bus frequency is derived from the internal clock source (ICS) or external oscillator (XOSC), with ICS delivering up to 10 MHz bus speed using its FLL and factory-trimmed reference.
Does the MC9S08QE4CWL support in-circuit debugging?
Yes, the MC9S08QE4CWL includes a single-wire background debug (BKGD) interface on PTA4, enabling full in-circuit debugging with breakpoint setting, on-chip ICE emulation, and memory access. The debug module supports one hardware breakpoint plus two additional breakpoints via the on-chip debug module.
What are the low-power modes supported by the MC9S08QE4CWL?
The MC9S08QE4CWL supports two stop modes (stop2 and stop3), reduced-power wait mode, and low-power run/wait modes. Stop3 mode achieves 0.4 µA typical current at 3 V and retains RTC operation using the 1 kHz low-power oscillator - making it ideal for battery-backed wake-up scheduling.
Can the MC9S08QE4CWL operate from a single 2.0 V supply?
Yes, the MC9S08QE4CWL is fully functional from 1.8 V to 3.6 V. At 2.0 V, it supports CPU operation up to ~12 MHz (per ICS characterization), full ADC functionality (12-bit, 2.5 µs), and all low-power modes - meeting design requirements for coin-cell or energy-harvesting systems.
Is the MC9S08QE4CWL pin-compatible with other devices in the QE family?
Yes, the MC9S08QE4CWL shares identical pinout and electrical characteristics with MC9S08QE8CWL in the 32-pin QFN package (98ASA00466D). Both devices use the same mechanical drawing, thermal pad layout, and peripheral pin mappings - enabling direct PCB reuse when upgrading flash/RAM capacity.
MC9S08QE4CWL Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 28-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Series:
- S08
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- S08
- Core Size:
- 8-Bit
- Speed:
- 20MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, LINbus, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 22
- Program Memory Size:
- 4KB (4K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 256 x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 10x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MC9S08QE4CWL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC9S08QE4CWL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC9S08QE4CWL on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MC9S08QE4CWL reliable?
The price and inventory of MC9S08QE4CWL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC9S08QE4CWL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC9S08QE4CWL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC9S08QE4CWL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC9S08QE4CWL?
MC9S08QE4CWL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC9S08QE4CWL order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MC9S08QE4CWL?
For technical support, including MC9S08QE4CWL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC9S08QE4CWL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC9S08QE4CWL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC9S08QE4CWL products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MC9S08QE4CWL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC9S08QE4CWL?
All MC9S08QE4CWL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC9S08QE4CWL, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MC9S08QE4CWL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC9S08QE4CWL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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