NXP Semiconductors MC9S12H256VFVE

Overview

MC9S12H256VFVE from NXP (formerly Freescale) is a 16-bit HCS12 microcontroller with 256 KB on-chip Flash EEPROM, 12 KB RAM, and integrated CAN 2.0B controller (MSCAN), 10-bit 16-channel ATD, 8-channel PWM, LCD driver, and voltage regulator. It operates at up to 50 MHz bus clock via PLL, supports external memory expansion, and targets automotive body control modules, industrial motor controllers, and embedded instrumentation requiring deterministic real-time response.

For engineers reviewing the MC9S12H256VFVE datasheet, MC9S12H256VFVE pinout, MC9S12H256VFVE application, or MC9S12H256VFVE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed package mapping (112-pin LQFP), key timing and electrical specs, and two rigorously cross-referenced alternative parts for CAN-enabled 16-bit MCU designs.

Technical Context

The MC9S12H256VFVE implements the HCS12 CPU12 core with 16-bit data path, 24-bit address space, and background debug interface (BDM). Its Clock and Reset Generator (CRG) supports crystal oscillator input (EXTAL/XTAL), PLL multiplication (up to 50 MHz bus clock), and multiple low-power modes including STOP and WAIT.

On-chip peripherals include dual CAN controllers (MSCAN0 and MSCAN1), 16-channel 10-bit ATD with configurable sample-and-hold, 8-channel PWM with center-aligned and edge-aligned modes, 32-segment LCD driver (LCD_32F4B), and integrated 5V voltage regulator (VREG) supporting internal analog supply generation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MC9S12H256VFVE is housed in a 112-pin LQFP (Leadless Quad Flat Package) with exposed thermal pad, designated VFVE per Freescale/NXP part numbering convention. Pin assignments follow Figure 2-1 of the Device User Guide (V01.20), covering dedicated I/O ports (PA–PW), peripheral multiplexing (CAN, SPI, SCI, PWM, ATD), power domains (VDDR, VDDA, VDDMx, VSSx), and clock/reset signals (EXTAL, XTAL, RESET, XCLKS).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 16-bit CAN microcontroller applications.

Compared with S912XDP512J0VLQ and MC9S12XEP100MAL, the MC9S12H256VFVE offers optimal balance of CAN capability, Flash density, and pin-compatible legacy support in 112-pin LQFP-making it ideal for cost-constrained, volume automotive ECUs where proven reliability and minimal BOM changes are critical.

Availability

MC9S12H256VFVE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control units, industrial motor drives, and embedded instrumentation panels requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (−40°C to +105°C) and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MC9S12H256VFVE 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep heritage in microcontroller innovation through its acquisition of Freescale Semiconductor.

The MC9S12H256VFVE belongs to the HCS12 family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability automotive body electronics and industrial control systems demanding integrated CAN, motor control, and analog peripherals in a single chip.

FAQ

What is the maximum bus clock frequency supported by the MC9S12H256VFVE?

The MC9S12H256VFVE supports a maximum bus clock frequency of 50 MHz, achieved via its integrated Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) using an external crystal (1–8 MHz) as the reference. This frequency is confirmed in Section A.4.3 (PLL Characteristics) of the Device User Guide V01.20, Table A-15, and applies directly to the MC9S12H256VFVE in its standard operating configuration.

Does the MC9S12H256VFVE include an integrated CAN controller, and how many instances are available?

Yes, the MC9S12H256VFVE integrates two independent MSCAN modules (MSCAN0 and MSCAN1), both compliant with ISO 11898-1 (CAN 2.0B Active). Each module features 16 message buffers, programmable bit timing, and full error handling-confirmed in Sections 18 and A.5 of the Device User Guide V01.20 and explicitly assigned to pins PM2/PM3 (CAN0) and PM4/PM5 (CAN1).

What package type and pin count does the MC9S12H256VFVE use?

The MC9S12H256VFVE uses a 112-pin LQFP package (case number 987), denoted by the VFVE suffix. This is documented in Appendix B (Package Information), Figure 2-1, and Table 2-1 of the Device User Guide V01.20. The mechanical dimensions, thermal characteristics, and recommended PCB layout for this package are fully specified in the guide.

Can the MC9S12H256VFVE operate without an external crystal?

No-the MC9S12H256VFVE requires an external crystal (1–8 MHz) connected to EXTAL/XTAL pins for stable clock generation. While it supports self-clock mode (internal RC oscillator) as a fallback, that mode is limited to 1–5.5 MHz and lacks the accuracy and stability needed for CAN or precise timing applications. The primary clock path relies on external crystal + PLL, per Section A.4.2 and A.4.3.

What is the role of the VREG block in the MC9S12H256VFVE?

The VREG block in the MC9S12H256VFVE generates a regulated 5V internal analog supply from the main VDDR rail, powering the ATD converter, voltage reference circuitry (VRH/VRL), and other analog blocks. This eliminates the need for an external LDO in systems with only one 5V supply, as specified in Section 21 and Table A-4 of the Device User Guide V01.20.