NXP Semiconductors MC9S08SE8CWL

Overview

MC9S08SE8CWL from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is an 8-bit HCS08 microcontroller with 8 KB flash, 512 bytes RAM, 20 MHz CPU, 10 MHz bus frequency, and integrated peripherals including SCI, 10-channel 10-bit ADC, two TPM modules, RTC, and KBI - used in low-power industrial control and sensor interface applications.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S08SE8CWL datasheet, MC9S08SE8CWL pinout, MC9S08SE8CWL application, or MC9S08SE8CWL equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package mapping, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options for embedded system design and component selection.

Technical Context

The MC9S08SE8CWL implements the HCS08 CPU core with HC08 instruction set extension (BGND), supports up to 32 interrupt/reset sources, and features a dual-clock architecture: external crystal/ceramic resonator (31.25 kHz–16 MHz) or internal ICS with FLL-based frequency-locked loop enabling 1–10 MHz bus frequencies.

Its peripheral suite includes a full-duplex SCI with LIN master/slave extended break support, 10-bit ADC with 2.5 μs conversion time and temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C), two timer/pulse-width modulator modules (TPM1: 2-channel, TPM2: 1-channel), and real-time counter with binary/decimal prescaler - all operable in Stop3 mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S08SE8CWL is packaged in a 28-pin SOIC (Case 751F), with 24 functional I/O pins across Ports A, B, and C, plus dedicated power, reset, debug, and oscillator terminals. Pin functions are software-configurable for alternate roles including UART (SCI), PWM (TPM), keyboard interrupt (KBI), and analog input (ADC).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MC9S08AW60CLD and S9KEAZ128AMLH, the MC9S08SE8CWL offers optimal balance of proven 8-bit simplicity, ultra-low Stop3 current (<77 μA), and minimal BOM cost for cost-sensitive, space-constrained industrial controls - without requiring CAN or 32-bit scalability.

Availability

MC9S08SE8CWL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, smart thermostat controllers, motor interface modules, and legacy equipment retrofit programs requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC9S08SE8CWL 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 delivering secure, scalable solutions for automotive, industrial, IoT, and communication infrastructure markets.

The MC9S08SE8CWL belongs to the HCS08 family - designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded control applications where deterministic real-time response, integrated analog peripherals, and debug flexibility are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S08SE8CWL CPU core?

The MC9S08SE8CWL CPU core operates at a maximum frequency of 20 MHz. This is specified in the official Freescale (now NXP) MC9S08SE8 data sheet Rev. 4, Section 1, under "8-Bit HCS08 Central Processor Unit (CPU)". The internal bus frequency is rated up to 10 MHz, and both values are guaranteed across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to 125°C). The MC9S08SE8CWL achieves this performance using either the internal ICS with FLL or external crystal oscillator.

Does the MC9S08SE8CWL support in-circuit debugging, and what interface is used?

Yes, the MC9S08SE8CWL supports in-circuit debugging via a single-wire background debug (BKGD) interface on the PTA4 pin. This interface enables full read/write memory access, breakpoint setting, and real-time register inspection during development. The MC9S08SE8CWL does not require a dedicated JTAG header - simplifying board layout and reducing connector cost. Debug functionality remains accessible even in low-power Stop modes, and the BKGD pin doubles as the master/slave select (MS) signal in expanded-mode configurations.

What are the key low-power modes supported by the MC9S08SE8CWL, and how do they differ?

The MC9S08SE8CWL supports Wait, Stop2, and Stop3 low-power modes. Wait mode halts the CPU while keeping peripherals and clocks active (typical current ~220 μA). Stop2 disables the ICS and most clocks but retains RAM and register contents (≤45.8 μA @ 5 V, 125°C). Stop3 further disables the oscillator and offers the lowest current draw (≤76.1 μA @ 5 V, 125°C) while still allowing RTC and ADC to operate - enabling wake-up on timer expiry or analog threshold crossing. All modes are entered via STOP instruction with configurable wake-up sources.

Can the MC9S08SE8CWL's ADC operate during low-power modes, and what is its resolution?

Yes, the MC9S08SE8CWL's 10-channel, 10-bit ADC can operate in Stop3 mode - a critical feature for battery-powered sensing applications. It achieves 10-bit resolution with a typical conversion time of 2.5 μs, includes an internal 1.7 mV/°C temperature sensor channel, and supports automatic comparison against programmable thresholds. The ADC uses an internal bandgap reference and accepts analog inputs referenced to VREFH/VREFL, with dedicated VDDA/VSSA pins to isolate noise-sensitive analog circuitry from digital switching transients.

What package type and pin count does the MC9S08SE8CWL use, and is it RoHS-compliant?

The MC9S08SE8CWL is supplied in a 28-pin SOIC package (Case 751F), with lead-free finish and full RoHS compliance. This package matches the pinout of the 28-pin PDIP variant but offers superior thermal performance (θJA = 70°C/W on single-layer board) and surface-mount compatibility. The device also supports 16-pin TSSOP and 28-pin PDIP variants, but the "CWL" suffix specifically denotes the 28-pin SOIC configuration. Mechanical drawings and land patterns are documented in Freescale's MC9S08SE8 data sheet Rev. 4, Section 4.2.