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NXP Semiconductors MC9S12XET256CAG
- Part No.:
- MC9S12XET256CAG
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 144-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MC9S12XET256CAG.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 256KB FLASH 144LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,606
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Product details
Overview
MC9S12XET256CAG from NXP (formerly Freescale) is a 16-bit HCS12X microcontroller featuring a 256 KB on-chip flash memory, 14 KB RAM, and an XGATE co-processor for offloading real-time tasks. It operates at up to 50 MHz core frequency, supports CAN 2.0B and LIN 2.1 communication, and integrates dual 12-bit ADCs with 16 channels. It is used in automotive body control modules requiring deterministic interrupt response and functional safety support.
For engineers reviewing the MC9S12XET256CAG datasheet, MC9S12XET256CAG pinout, MC9S12XET256CAG application, or MC9S12XET256CAG equivalent, key selection criteria include its S12X CPU architecture with enhanced instruction set, 256 KB flash with EEPROM emulation, dual CAN controllers with time-triggered capability, XGATE acceleration for PWM/ADC/CAN handling, and qualification per AEC-Q100 Grade 2 (-40°C to +105°C).
Technical Context
The MC9S12XET256CAG implements the S12X CPU core with 16-bit data path, 24-bit addressing, and backward compatibility with legacy HCS12 code. Its XGATE module is a 16-bit RISC coprocessor with dedicated 2 KB RAM and autonomous DMA access to peripheral registers, enabling concurrent background processing without CPU intervention.
It features two independent MSCAN modules supporting bit rates up to 1 Mbps, configurable via dedicated CRG and BDM interfaces. The device includes a 16-channel, 12-bit ADC0 and 8-channel, 12-bit ADC1 with hardware-triggered conversion sequencing, plus 8-channel 8-bit PWM with center-aligned and edge-aligned modes - all synchronized via the ECT timer system.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | S12X 16-bit CPU with 24-bit address bus and enhanced instruction set for deterministic real-time execution |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB on-chip flash with EEPROM emulation, 10K erase/write cycles, and 10-year data retention |
| RAM | 14 KB on-chip SRAM, including 2 KB XGATE local RAM for autonomous peripheral servicing |
| Clock Speed | Up to 50 MHz core frequency via PLL; supports external crystal (4–33 MHz) or ceramic resonator |
| CAN Interfaces | Dual MSCAN modules compliant with ISO 11898-1, supporting CAN 2.0B protocol and time-triggered communication |
| ADC Resolution | Dual 12-bit ADCs: ADC0 (16-channel), ADC1 (8-channel); programmable sample-and-hold, hardware trigger chaining |
| PWM Channels | 8-channel 8-bit PWM with dead-time insertion, center-aligned mode, and synchronization to ECT timer events |
Pinout & Package
MC9S12XET256CAG is housed in a 144-pin LQFP (16 × 16 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments follow the S12XE family standard layout, supporting multiplexed I/O across 12 ports (A, B, C, D, E, H, J, K, L, P, R, T), including dedicated CANH/CANL, SCI, SPI, and PWM pins.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD, VDDA, VDDPLL | Power supply inputs | Separate digital (VDD), analog (VDDA), and PLL (VDDPLL) rails enable noise isolation for mixed-signal operation |
| VSS, VSSA, VSSPLL | Ground returns | Dedicated ground planes minimize coupling between digital switching, analog conversion, and clock generation |
| RESET | Active-low reset input | Asynchronous reset with internal pull-up; supports external watchdog or power-on reset assertion |
| CRGCLK, EXTAL, XTAL | Oscillator interface | Supports crystal/resonator-based clock source; CRGCLK enables external clock injection for test or redundancy |
| CAN0H / CAN0L | CAN 2.0B differential bus lines | Direct connection to ISO 11898-compliant transceiver; integrated CAN controller handles arbitration, filtering, and error handling |
| CAN1H / CAN1L | Second CAN 2.0B differential bus | Independent CAN controller with separate message buffers and acceptance filtering logic |
| PT0 – PT15 | Port T general-purpose I/O | 16-bit port with configurable pull-up, polarity, and interrupt-on-change capability; used for PWM output and timer capture |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| XGATE co-processor | 16-bit RISC engine with 2 KB local RAM and autonomous register access - reduces CPU load by >60% for CAN/PWM/ADC interrupt service |
| Dual MSCAN controllers | Independent CAN 2.0B modules with 64-message object buffers, time-triggered scheduling, and loopback self-test mode |
| Enhanced Capture Timer (ECT) | 16-bit timer with 8 input capture/compare channels, quadrature decoding, and PWM synchronization - enables precise motor control timing |
| ADC0 + ADC1 dual converters | Hardware-triggered sequencing across both ADCs allows synchronized sampling of voltage/current/temperature in motor drives |
| Memory Protection Unit (MPU) | Configurable protection descriptors enforce read/write/execute permissions per memory region - supports ASIL-B software partitioning |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial Motor Drive Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Centralized control of door locks, window lifts, lighting, and HVAC actuators in passenger vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main MCU executing CAN-based command arbitration, PWM-driven actuator control, and ADC-monitored sensor feedback. Use Value: Dual CAN interfaces enable simultaneous communication with powertrain and infotainment networks; XGATE handles low-latency window position tracking without CPU overhead. |
Use Scenario: Sensorless BLDC motor commutation and current regulation in factory automation drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time motor control unit synchronizing ADC sampling, PWM updates, and fault detection within 1 µs jitter. Use Value: ECT timer with quadrature decode and ADC0/ADC1 hardware triggering ensures precise rotor position estimation and current-loop closure at 20 kHz switching frequency. |
| Commercial Vehicle Gateway | Off-Highway Equipment Telematics |
Use Scenario: Protocol translation between J1939, CAN FD (via external transceiver), and LIN networks in heavy-duty trucks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Gateway processor managing message routing, filtering, and diagnostics across multiple CAN buses. Use Value: Dual MSCAN modules operate independently at different bit rates (250 kbps and 500 kbps); XGATE offloads checksum calculation and message buffering. |
Use Scenario: Data acquisition and remote reporting for hydraulic pressure, temperature, and GPS position in construction equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Edge node MCU collecting analog/digital sensor data and transmitting over cellular modem via UART/SCI interface. Use Value: 12-bit ADC0 provides 0.2% full-scale accuracy for pressure transducer readings; built-in LIN 2.1 controller interfaces with cabin sensors without external IC. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar automotive microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC9S12XEP100MAL | 100 KB flash, 8 KB RAM, single CAN, no XGATE - lower cost but reduced peripheral concurrency | Limited to single-bus body electronics (e.g., seat control only); insufficient for dual-CAN gateway use | Select when BOM cost sensitivity outweighs need for dual CAN or XGATE acceleration |
| S912XEQ512J2MAG | 512 KB flash, 32 KB RAM, dual CAN, XGATE, and enhanced debug - pin-compatible LQFP-144 upgrade path | Supports larger firmware images and additional safety monitors required for ASIL-B certified systems | Choose for future-proofing or when expanding feature set beyond MC9S12XET256CAG's 256 KB limit |
Compared with MC9S12XET256CAG, MC9S12XEP100MAL offers lower integration for cost-constrained nodes, while S912XEQ512J2MAG extends flash/RAM and safety features for next-generation designs - neither is pin-compatible, but both share identical peripheral register mapping and toolchain support.
Availability
MC9S12XET256CAG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control, industrial motor drive interface, commercial vehicle gateway, and off-highway telematics applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and AEC-Q100 qualified silicon.
Supply support for MC9S12XET256CAG 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 the Motorola 68HC11 era.
The S12XE family - including MC9S12XET256CAG - was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability automotive body electronics and industrial control applications requiring real-time determinism, functional safety readiness, and CAN/LIN protocol integration.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating temperature range for the MC9S12XET256CAG?
The MC9S12XET256CAG is qualified per AEC-Q100 Grade 2, with guaranteed operation from -40°C to +105°C ambient temperature. This rating applies to the full 144-pin LQFP package and all integrated peripherals, including flash programming and CAN communication, under specified voltage and load conditions.
Does the MC9S12XET256CAG support in-circuit debugging via BDM?
Yes, the MC9S12XET256CAG includes a Background Debug Module (BDM) compliant with the Freescale BDM specification. It supports real-time debugging, flash programming, and breakpoint insertion using a standard 6-pin BDM interface, with full visibility into CPU registers, memory, and peripheral states during active execution.
How does the XGATE co-processor in the MC9S12XET256CAG improve real-time performance?
The XGATE co-processor in the MC9S12XET256CAG executes autonomous tasks such as CAN message handling, ADC conversion sequencing, and PWM update synchronization - freeing the main S12X CPU for higher-level application logic. Benchmarks show up to 65% reduction in CPU interrupt latency when XGATE manages time-critical peripheral events.
Can the MC9S12XET256CAG be used in ASIL-B compliant systems?
The MC9S12XET256CAG supports ASIL-B development through integrated features including Memory Protection Unit (MPU), ECC-capable RAM, lock-step ready peripherals, and diagnostic libraries. While the device itself is not ISO 26262-certified, its architecture and documentation enable systematic implementation of ASIL-B safety mechanisms in end-system design.
What packaging and RoHS compliance status does the MC9S12XET256CAG have?
The MC9S12XET256CAG is supplied in a lead-free, RoHS-compliant 144-pin LQFP package (16 × 16 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. It meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 3 and is rated for reflow soldering per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020D. Full material declarations and conflict minerals reporting are available upon request.
MC9S12XET256CAG Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 144-LQFP
- Series:
- HCS12X
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- HCS12X
- Core Size:
- 16-Bit
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, EBI/EMI, I2C, IrDA, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 119
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- 4K x 8
- RAM Size:
- 16K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.72V ~ 5.5V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 24x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- External
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MC9S12XET256CAG FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC9S12XET256CAG through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC9S12XET256CAG 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 MC9S12XET256CAG reliable?
The price and inventory of MC9S12XET256CAG are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC9S12XET256CAG is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC9S12XET256CAG?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC9S12XET256CAG transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC9S12XET256CAG?
MC9S12XET256CAG orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC9S12XET256CAG 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 MC9S12XET256CAG?
For technical support, including MC9S12XET256CAG datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC9S12XET256CAG requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC9S12XET256CAG is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC9S12XET256CAG 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 MC9S12XET256CAG meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC9S12XET256CAG?
All MC9S12XET256CAG units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC9S12XET256CAG, 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 MC9S12XET256CAG part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC9S12XET256CAG:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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