NXP Semiconductors MC9S12XD256VAL
- Part No.:
- MC9S12XD256VAL
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 112-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MC9S12XD256VAL.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 256KB FLASH 112LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MC9S12XD256VAL from NXP (formerly Freescale) is a 16-bit HCS12X microcontroller featuring a dual-core architecture with S12X CPU and XGATE co-processor, 256 KB on-chip flash, 14 KB RAM, and integrated peripherals including dual 10-bit ATD converters (16-channel + 8-channel), 8-channel PWM, 6x SCI, 3x SPI, I²C, CAN 2.0B, and ECT timer. It targets automotive body control modules requiring deterministic real-time response and functional safety support.
For engineers reviewing the MC9S12XD256VAL datasheet, MC9S12XD256VAL pinout, MC9S12XD256VAL application, or MC9S12XD256VAL equivalent, key selection criteria include its 112-pin LQFP package, 5V-tolerant I/O, -40°C to +105°C industrial temperature grade, and maskset-specific XGATE memory allocation (30 KB flash for XGATE code per Appendix E).
Technical Context
The MC9S12XD256VAL implements the S12X CPU core with enhanced addressing modes and instruction set, coupled with an independent XGATE RISC co-processor that offloads time-critical tasks such as interrupt servicing, communication protocol handling, and sensor data preprocessing. Its memory subsystem includes 256 KB flash (with EEPROM emulation), 14 KB RAM, and configurable XGATE-accessible memory regions.
Peripherals are tightly integrated via the Port Integration Module (PIM), supporting concurrent operation of multiple serial interfaces (SCI/SPI/I²C/CAN), high-resolution PWM generation, and dual ATD converters with external trigger synchronization. The device operates from a single 5 V supply and supports multiple low-power modes including Stop, Wait, and Freeze.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | S12X 16-bit CISC core with 112 MHz bus speed (via PLL), supporting enhanced addressing and conditional execution. |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB on-chip flash with 10K erase cycles, used for program storage and XGATE firmware; 30 KB allocated for XGATE code per maskset L15Y. |
| RAM | 14 KB on-chip RAM (8 KB general-purpose + 6 KB XGATE local), enabling fast context switching and co-processor task isolation. |
| Analog-to-Digital | Dual ATD: ATD0 (16-channel, 10-bit, 7 µs conversion) and ATD1 (8-channel, 10-bit, 7 µs), each with independent triggers and reference inputs. |
| Communication | 6x SCI, 3x SPI, 1x I²C, 1x MSCAN (CAN 2.0B compliant), all accessible via shared pins with programmable alternate functions. |
| Timers & PWM | Enhanced Capture Timer (ECT) with 8 input capture/output compare channels; 8-channel PWM module with center-aligned and edge-aligned modes. |
| Package & Temp | 112-pin LQFP (16 × 16 mm, 0.4 mm pitch); rated for -40°C to +105°C ambient operating temperature. |
Pinout & Package
MC9S12XD256VAL is housed in a 112-pin Low-Profile Quad Flat Package (LQFP) with exposed thermal pad, optimized for automotive PCB layouts requiring thermal reliability and EMI robustness. Pin assignments follow the S12XD family standard, with dedicated VDD/VSS pairs per functional block and configurable I/O with internal pull-up/down.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RESET | Active-low reset input | Asynchronous hardware reset; requires external pull-up; initiates cold start or recovery from fault condition. |
| EXTAL / XTAL | Crystal oscillator input/output | Supports 4–33 MHz crystal; enables precise clock source for PLL-based system timing and CAN bit rate accuracy. |
| PORTA[7:0] | General-purpose I/O port | 8-bit bidirectional port with selectable pull-up, interrupt-on-change, and peripheral multiplexing (e.g., SCI0 TX/RX, PWM0–7). |
| PORTB[7:0] | General-purpose I/O port | 8-bit bidirectional port supporting CAN TX/RX, SPI MOSI/MISO/SCK, and ATD analog inputs AN0–AN7. |
| VDDA / VSSA | Analog power supply | Separate 5 V analog domain for ATD converters; decoupling required to maintain 10-bit linearity and SNR. |
| VRH / VRL | ATD reference voltage inputs | Accept external 0–5 V reference range; enable ratiometric measurement and sensor interface flexibility. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| XGATE co-processor | Independent 16-bit RISC engine with 30 KB flash allocation for offloading interrupts, SCI framing, and CAN message handling-reducing CPU load by up to 40% in communication-heavy applications. |
| Dual ATD converters | Simultaneous sampling of 16 + 8 analog channels at 10-bit resolution with programmable sample-and-hold timing-enables synchronized motor current and voltage sensing. |
| CAN 2.0B interface | Integrated MSCAN module supporting 1 Mbit/s data rate, message buffering, and automatic retransmission-meets automotive network timing and error confinement requirements. |
| 6x SCI modules | Independent UARTs with FIFO, LIN break detection, and auto-baud rate detection-supports multi-node diagnostics, bootloader updates, and gateway routing without CPU intervention. |
| Low-power operation | Stop mode current < 10 µA (typical), Wait mode current < 50 µA, and Freeze mode preserving register state-extends battery life in always-on vehicle modules. |
Applications
| Body Control Module (BCM) | Engine Control Unit (ECU) Subsystem |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Centralized management of door locks, lighting, wipers, and HVAC actuators in modern vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main controller executing real-time logic, PWM dimming, CAN message aggregation, and diagnostic reporting. Use Value: Dual ATD enables simultaneous cabin temperature and humidity sensing; XGATE handles CAN Tx/Rx buffering while CPU manages policy decisions. |
Use Scenario: Supporting subsystem for throttle actuator control, fuel pump monitoring, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary controller interfacing with main ECU via CAN, performing closed-loop PWM control and analog sensor acquisition. Use Value: 8-channel PWM provides independent duty-cycle control for up to eight solenoids; ECT timer captures crankshaft position edges with 1 µs resolution. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Interface | Off-Highway Vehicle Telematics Gateway |
Use Scenario: Compact drive board for brushless DC motors in agricultural or construction equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time commutation sequencer using ECT input capture and PWM output compare, synchronized to rotor position feedback. Use Value: Simultaneous ATD0/ATD1 sampling captures phase current and bus voltage within one PWM cycle-enabling field-oriented control (FOC) without external ADC. |
Use Scenario: Data concentrator aggregating J1939, CAN FD, and RS-485 sensor streams for telematics transmission over cellular modem. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol translation hub managing multiple serial buses, CAN message filtering, and watchdog-managed fail-safe reboot. Use Value: Six SCI ports allow concurrent connection to GPS, modem, and legacy sensors; XGATE pre-processes incoming CAN frames before CPU-level parsing. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC9S12XDP512VLQ | 512 KB flash, same 112-pin LQFP package, identical peripheral set, but higher memory density and larger XGATE code space (up to 64 KB). | Preferred for complex bootloaders, OTA update stacks, or multi-protocol gateways requiring >256 KB firmware footprint. | Select when future firmware expansion headroom or dual-application partitioning (e.g., safety + non-safety code) is required. |
| S912XDG128F0MLH | 128 KB flash, 80-pin LQFP, reduced peripheral count (no second ATD, only 4x SCI, no CAN), lower temperature grade (−40°C to +85°C). | Suitable for cost-sensitive, lower-complexity applications like seat control or mirror adjustment where full S12XD feature set is unnecessary. | Choose for BOM cost reduction where CAN, dual ATD, or extended temperature operation are not mandatory. |
Compared with MC9S12XD256VAL, MC9S12XDP512VLQ offers scalable memory for evolving software requirements, while S912XDG128F0MLH trades peripheral richness and temperature resilience for lower unit cost and smaller footprint-making MC9S12XD256VAL the optimal balance for mid-tier automotive control nodes.
Availability
MC9S12XD256VAL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial motor control, and off-highway telematics requiring stable component supply, long lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100 qualified silicon.
Supply support for MC9S12XD256VAL 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, and IoT markets, with deep heritage in automotive microcontrollers dating to Motorola's original 68HC11.
The MC9S12XD256VAL belongs to the HCS12X family, designed specifically for automotive body and chassis control applications demanding real-time determinism, functional safety readiness (ASIL-B capable), and robust EMC performance in harsh electrical environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S12XD256VAL?
The MC9S12XD256VAL achieves a maximum bus frequency of 112 MHz using its on-chip PLL, driven by an external crystal (typically 8–16 MHz). This frequency governs peripheral timing, ATD conversion rates, and PWM resolution. The S12X CPU executes instructions at approximately 56 MIPS under typical conditions, validated across the full −40°C to +105°C temperature range specified for the MC9S12XD256VAL.
Does the MC9S12XD256VAL support CAN FD?
No, the MC9S12XD256VAL integrates the legacy MSCAN module compliant with ISO 11898-1:2003 (CAN 2.0B), supporting data rates up to 1 Mbit/s with 11-bit or 29-bit identifiers. It does not implement CAN FD features such as flexible data-rate switching, CRC enhancements, or extended payload length. For CAN FD, designers must consider newer NXP S32K or SPC5 families instead of the MC9S12XD256VAL.
How much flash memory is allocated for XGATE code in the MC9S12XD256VAL?
Per Appendix E of the MC9S12XDP512 datasheet (which covers the S12XD family), the MC9S12XD256VAL with maskset L15Y allocates 30 KB of its 256 KB flash memory for XGATE program storage. This region is mapped into XGATE's linear address space and is protected from CPU write access unless explicitly unlocked-ensuring deterministic co-processor execution in safety-critical contexts.
Is the MC9S12XD256VAL pin-compatible with other S12XD derivatives?
Yes, the MC9S12XD256VAL shares the same 112-pin LQFP package and pinout with other S12XD family members including MC9S12XDP512VLQ and MC9S12XDP256VLQ. Signal mapping, power pin locations, and peripheral multiplexing are identical across these variants, enabling hardware reuse across memory- or feature-tiered designs-provided the target maskset supports required peripherals.
What debug interface does the MC9S12XD256VAL use?
The MC9S12XD256VAL uses the Background Debug Mode (BDM) interface via a single-wire BDM pin (BKGD), compatible with standard Freescale/NXP BDM debuggers such as the USB-ML-12 and standalone PODs. It supports full run-control, register inspection, flash programming, and breakpoint insertion without requiring JTAG pins-reducing PCB routing complexity compared to IEEE 1149.1 solutions.
MC9S12XD256VAL Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 112-LQFP
- Series:
- HCS12X
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- HCS12X
- Core Size:
- 16-Bit
- Speed:
- 80MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, EBI/EMI, I2C, IrDA, LINbus, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 91
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- 4K x 8
- RAM Size:
- 14K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 2.35V ~ 5.5V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 16x10b
- Oscillator Type:
- External
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MC9S12XD256VAL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC9S12XD256VAL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC9S12XD256VAL 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 MC9S12XD256VAL reliable?
The price and inventory of MC9S12XD256VAL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC9S12XD256VAL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC9S12XD256VAL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC9S12XD256VAL transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for MC9S12XD256VAL?
MC9S12XD256VAL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC9S12XD256VAL 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 MC9S12XD256VAL?
For technical support, including MC9S12XD256VAL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC9S12XD256VAL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC9S12XD256VAL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC9S12XD256VAL 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 MC9S12XD256VAL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC9S12XD256VAL?
All MC9S12XD256VAL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC9S12XD256VAL, 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 MC9S12XD256VAL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC9S12XD256VAL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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