NXP Semiconductors MC9S08QG4CFFER

Overview

MC9S08QG4CFFER from Freescale Semiconductor is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller featuring a 20-MHz CPU, 4 KB flash memory, 256 bytes RAM, and integrated peripherals including 8-channel 10-bit ADC, SCI, SPI, I²C, TPM, ACMP, and MTIM - designed for cost-sensitive embedded control in appliance motor drives and sensor interface modules.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08QG4CFFER datasheet, MC9S08QG4CFFER pinout, MC9S08QG4CFFER application, or MC9S08QG4CFFER equivalent, key selection criteria include its 16-pin QFN package with exposed pad, internal clock source (ICS) with FLL, low-voltage detection, COP watchdog, and single-wire background debug interface for in-circuit development.

Technical Context

The MC9S08QG4CFFER implements the HCS08 CPU core with HC08 instruction set plus BGND, supporting up to 32 interrupt/reset sources and real-time debugging via an on-chip debug module with two comparators, nine trigger modes, and eight-deep FIFO. Its ICS module integrates a frequency-locked loop (FLL) trimmed to ±0.2% resolution over voltage and temperature, enabling bus frequencies from 1 MHz to 10 MHz without external crystal.

Peripherals are tightly coupled to the CPU: the 10-bit ADC supports hardware triggering by RTI and includes automatic compare with internal bandgap reference; the TPM provides dual-channel PWM with edge- and center-aligned modes; and the ACMP output can be routed directly to TPM for analog-triggered timing events - all operating across Run, Wait, and Stop3 modes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08QG4CFFER is housed in a 16-pin quad flat no-lead (QFN) package measuring 3 mm × 3 mm with 0.5 mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad (JEDEC MO-220, case outline 98ASA00671D). The package uses copper wire bonding per Freescale QFN migration addendum Rev. 0 (July 2014).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08QG8CFFER, the MC9S08QG4CFFER trades flash/RAM capacity for lower cost and smaller footprint while retaining identical peripheral functionality and debug compatibility; versus S9KEAZ128AMLH, it offers proven 8-bit toolchain continuity and lower power in deep-sleep modes but lacks 32-bit compute throughput and advanced interfaces.

Availability

MC9S08QG4CFFER is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart appliance motor control, industrial sensor nodes, home automation keypads, and LED lighting dimming modules requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MC9S08QG4CFFER 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

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors since 2015) was a leading designer of embedded processors, analog, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MC9S08QG4 belongs to the HCS08 microcontroller family, engineered for cost-optimized, low-power 8-bit control in space-constrained applications such as white goods, lighting, and sensor interfaces.

FAQ

What is the package type and thermal pad configuration of the MC9S08QG4CFFER?

The MC9S08QG4CFFER uses a 16-pin QFN package (3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with an exposed thermal pad designated by the "CFFER" suffix. This pad must be soldered to a PCB thermal plane for reliable thermal dissipation and EMI reduction. Per Freescale EB806, the pad should be connected to VSS with multiple thermal vias.

Does the MC9S08QG4CFFER support in-circuit debugging, and what interface is used?

Yes, the MC9S08QG4CFFER supports full in-circuit debugging via a single-wire background debug interface on the BKGD/MS pin. It includes an on-chip debug module with breakpoint support (1 tag + 2 force breakpoints), real-time bus capture, and an 8-deep FIFO for flow tracing - all accessible without halting normal operation.

What are the clock source options available on the MC9S08QG4CFFER?

The MC9S08QG4CFFER offers two primary clock sources: the Internal Clock Source (ICS) with FLL for 1–10 MHz bus frequencies using factory-trimmed internal reference (±0.2% resolution), and the External Oscillator (XOSC) supporting crystals/resonators from 31.25 kHz to 16 MHz or external clock inputs up to 20 MHz.

Can the MC9S08QG4CFFER operate in ultra-low-power modes, and what is the lowest current draw?

Yes, the MC9S08QG4CFFER supports Stop3 mode with typical current draw below 1 µA. In this mode, the ICS is disabled, RAM is retained, and wake-up is possible via IRQ, KBI, or RTI - making it suitable for battery-powered applications where multi-year operation is required.

Is the MC9S08QG4CFFER pin-compatible with other devices in the QG family, and which ones?

Yes, the MC9S08QG4CFFER is pin-compatible with the MC9S08QG8CFFER in the same 16-pin QFN package. Both share identical pin assignments, peripheral mappings, and electrical characteristics - allowing drop-in replacement where increased flash/RAM capacity is needed without PCB revision.