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NXP Semiconductors MC9S12XET256MAL
- Part No.:
- MC9S12XET256MAL
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 112-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MC9S12XET256MAL.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 256KB FLASH 112LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:159
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Product details
Overview
MC9S12XET256MAL 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, supports CAN 2.0B and LIN 2.1 protocols, 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 MC9S12XET256MAL datasheet, MC9S12XET256MAL pinout, MC9S12XET256MAL application, or MC9S12XET256MAL equivalent, key selection criteria include its S12X CPU core architecture, 112-pin LQFP package, 5V tolerance, BDM debug interface, and integrated MSCAN controller - all critical for legacy automotive ECU redesign and industrial motor control migration.
Technical Context
The MC9S12XET256MAL implements the S12X CPU12XV2 core with enhanced instruction set, 24-bit addressing, and hardware multiply/divide. Its XGATE module is an autonomous 16-bit RISC coprocessor with dedicated RAM and interrupt vector table, enabling parallel execution of time-critical I/O handling without CPU intervention.
It features two independent 12-bit ADC subsystems (ADC0 and ADC1), each with 8-channel multiplexing, configurable sample-and-hold, and external trigger support. The device includes a full-featured MSCAN module compliant with ISO 11898-1, supporting both standard and extended frames with programmable bit timing and error counters.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | S12X CPU12XV2 - 16-bit CISC core with 24-bit address space, hardware multiply/divide, and enhanced interrupt latency control. |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB on-chip flash - supports EEPROM emulation, secure erase, and in-application programming (IAP) via BDM. |
| RAM | 14 KB on-chip RAM - includes 2 KB XGATE local RAM and 12 KB main RAM with MPU protection zones. |
| Clock Speed | Up to 50 MHz system frequency - achieved via PLL with internal reference oscillator or external crystal (1–8 MHz). |
| ADC Resolution | Dual 12-bit ADCs (ADC0/ADC1) - each with 8 input channels, 8 µs conversion time, and configurable trigger sources including ECT and PWM. |
| CAN Interface | One MSCAN module - fully compliant with CAN 2.0B, supports 1 Mbit/s, 64 message buffers, and hardware acceptance filtering. |
| I/O Pins | 91 general-purpose I/O pins - configurable as digital inputs/outputs, analog inputs, or peripheral functions (SCI, SPI, PWM, etc.) with pull-up/polarity control. |
| Debug Interface | Background Debug Module (BDM) - single-wire serial interface supporting full-speed debugging, flash programming, and real-time register access. |
Pinout & Package
MC9S12XET256MAL is housed in a 112-pin LQFP (16 × 16 mm, 0.4 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignments follow the MC9S12XE family layout, including dedicated VDD/VSS pairs per power domain, separate analog/digital ground planes, and dedicated BDM BKGD pin.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| BKGD | Background Debug Input | Single-wire BDM interface for programming, breakpoint insertion, and real-time register read/write during operation. |
| VDDA/VSSA | Analog Power/Ground | Isolated 5 V analog supply and ground - required for stable ADC reference and internal voltage regulator operation. |
| VRH/VRP | ADC Reference Inputs | High-precision external reference inputs (0–5 V range) for ADC0 and ADC1, enabling ratiometric or absolute measurement modes. |
| CANH/CANL | CAN Bus Differential Pair | Direct connection to ISO 11898-compliant physical layer transceiver - no level-shifting required for standard bus termination. |
| PT0–PT7 | Port T Data Lines | 8-bit port with edge-triggered interrupt capability, used for high-speed capture/timer input or general-purpose I/O with reduced drive strength control. |
| RESET | Active-Low Reset Input | Asynchronous reset assertion resets CPU, peripherals, and registers - also triggers internal POR circuitry when held low for ≥2 µs. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| XGATE Co-processor | Autonomous 16-bit RISC engine with 2 KB local RAM - handles time-critical I/O (CAN, ADC, PWM) without CPU load or latency penalty. |
| Memory Protection Unit (MPU) | Configurable 8-region MPU with read/write/execute permissions - enforces code/data separation and prevents accidental overwrites in safety-critical firmware. |
| Dual Independent ADCs | Two synchronized 12-bit ADCs with shared clock but independent trigger and result registers - enables simultaneous sampling of motor phase currents and temperature sensors. |
| Enhanced Capture Timer (ECT) | 16-bit timer with 8 input capture/compare channels, quadrature decoder, and pulse accumulation mode - ideal for motor position/speed sensing. |
| Security & Flash Protection | Secure boot loader, flash block protection bits, and backdoor key access - prevents unauthorized firmware extraction or modification in production ECUs. |
| 5V Tolerant I/O | All GPIO pins tolerate 5 V regardless of VDD level (3.3 V or 5 V) - simplifies interface with legacy automotive sensors and actuators without level shifters. |
Applications
| Body Control Module (BCM) | Engine Control Unit (ECU) Subsystem |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Centralized control of lighting, door locks, window lifts, and HVAC in mid-tier passenger vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main MCU executing real-time CAN message scheduling, PWM dimming control, and fault monitoring logic. Use Value: Integrated MSCAN and 5V-tolerant I/O reduce external component count; XGATE offloads CAN Tx/Rx buffering to maintain <10 µs interrupt latency under full bus load. | Use Scenario: Secondary controller managing throttle actuator, fuel pump driver, and knock sensor preprocessing in distributed engine management systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated signal acquisition and actuator command node interfacing with primary ECU via CAN. Use Value: Dual ADCs enable simultaneous sampling of wideband O2 sensor and intake air temperature; ECT quadrature decoding supports precise throttle position tracking. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Controller | Commercial Vehicle Telematics Gateway |
Use Scenario: Closed-loop speed/position control of 3-phase BLDC motors in HVAC compressors and conveyor systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time PWM generation, current sensing ADC coordination, and field-oriented control (FOC) loop execution. Use Value: 50 MHz core + XGATE allows sub-10 µs FOC loop execution; ECT input capture provides <1° electrical angle resolution at 10,000 RPM. | Use Scenario: Aggregation and translation of J1939, CAN FD, and LIN messages between fleet telematics units and vehicle subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol bridge with message filtering, store-and-forward buffering, and diagnostics logging. Use Value: Dual CAN controllers (MSCAN + SCI-as-CAN) enable concurrent J1939 and proprietary bus traffic; 256 KB flash stores multiple firmware images for OTA updates. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 16-bit automotive microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MC9S12XEP100MAL | 100 KB flash, 8 KB RAM, same S12X core and peripheral set - lacks second ADC and reduces CAN message buffer count to 32. | Suitable for cost-sensitive body electronics with lower sensor count and no dual-sampling requirements. | Select when BOM cost reduction outweighs need for redundant ADC or extended CAN buffering. |
| S912XEQ512J2MAG | NXP S12XE derivative with 512 KB flash, 32 KB RAM, and added EEPROM - identical pinout and peripheral compatibility but higher power consumption. | Targeted at next-gen ECUs requiring larger bootloader, calibration tables, or OTA update storage. | Choose for future-proofing where flash headroom and nonvolatile parameter storage are critical. |
Compared with MC9S12XET256MAL, MC9S12XEP100MAL offers lower memory and peripheral capacity at reduced cost, while S912XEQ512J2MAG extends flash and RAM for complex firmware without changing PCB layout - making the latter a drop-in upgrade path for memory-constrained designs.
Availability
MC9S12XET256MAL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial motor drives, and commercial vehicle telematics gateways requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MC9S12XET256MAL 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 automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in microcontrollers, secure connectivity, and radar solutions.
The MC9S12XET256MAL belongs to the S12XE family - engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, safety-aware automotive applications requiring deterministic real-time performance, robust EMC behavior, and long product lifecycles (15+ years).
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MC9S12XET256MAL?
The MC9S12XET256MAL achieves a maximum system clock frequency of 50 MHz using its internal PLL, which accepts input from either the on-chip oscillator (1–8 MHz crystal or ceramic resonator) or an external clock source. This frequency is sustained across the full industrial temperature range (−40°C to +125°C) and 4.5–5.5 V supply range, enabling deterministic real-time execution in automotive environments.
Does the MC9S12XET256MAL support CAN FD?
No, the MC9S12XET256MAL does not support CAN FD. It integrates the legacy MSCAN module compliant only with ISO 11898-1 (Classical CAN 2.0B), supporting data rates up to 1 Mbit/s and 11-/29-bit identifiers. For CAN FD capability, designers must migrate to NXP's S32K series or select the S912XEQ512J2MAG with external CAN FD transceivers and software protocol stack implementation.
How is flash programming performed on the MC9S12XET256MAL?
Flash programming on the MC9S12XET256MAL is performed via the Background Debug Module (BDM) interface using standard Freescale/NXP BDM protocol. It supports in-circuit programming, sector erase, and byte/word write operations without removing the device from the board. The MC9S12XET256MAL also supports in-application programming (IAP) through its flash command interface, enabling firmware updates over CAN or SCI.
What is the role of the XGATE module in the MC9S12XET256MAL?
The XGATE module in the MC9S12XET256MAL is an autonomous 16-bit RISC coprocessor with 2 KB dedicated RAM and its own interrupt vector table. It executes predefined tasks such as CAN message handling, ADC result processing, and PWM synchronization - freeing the main S12X CPU for higher-level application logic and reducing worst-case interrupt latency by up to 70% compared to CPU-only implementations.
Is the MC9S12XET256MAL pin-compatible with other S12XE family members?
Yes, the MC9S12XET256MAL is pin-compatible with other 112-pin LQFP variants in the S12XE family, including MC9S12XEP100MAL and MC9S12XEQ512MAL. Identical pin mapping, power sequencing, and peripheral routing allow direct substitution in existing PCB layouts - provided firmware accounts for differences in flash size, RAM allocation, and peripheral enablement (e.g., second ADC or additional CAN buffers).
MC9S12XET256MAL 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:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, EBI/EMI, I2C, IrDA, 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:
- 16K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.72V ~ 5.5V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 12x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- External
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MC9S12XET256MAL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC9S12XET256MAL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC9S12XET256MAL 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 MC9S12XET256MAL reliable?
The price and inventory of MC9S12XET256MAL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC9S12XET256MAL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC9S12XET256MAL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC9S12XET256MAL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC9S12XET256MAL?
MC9S12XET256MAL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC9S12XET256MAL 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 MC9S12XET256MAL?
For technical support, including MC9S12XET256MAL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC9S12XET256MAL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC9S12XET256MAL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC9S12XET256MAL 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 MC9S12XET256MAL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC9S12XET256MAL?
All MC9S12XET256MAL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC9S12XET256MAL, 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 MC9S12XET256MAL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC9S12XET256MAL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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