NXP Semiconductors MCF51AC256AVPUE
- Part No.:
- MCF51AC256AVPUE
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 64-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MCF51AC256AVPUE.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 256KB FLASH 64LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,312
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Product details
Overview
MCF51AC256AVPUE from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V1 microcontroller with CAN interface, 256 KB flash, 32 KB SRAM, and 64-pin LQFP package. It operates up to 50.33 MHz at 2.7–5.5 V, integrates dual analog comparators, 24-channel 12-bit ADC, dual SPI, dual SCI, I²C, FTM/TPM timers, and CRC engine-designed for industrial motor control and automotive body electronics.
For engineers reviewing the MCF51AC256AVPUE datasheet, MCF51AC256AVPUE pinout, MCF51AC256AVPUE application, or MCF51AC256AVPUE equivalent, key selection criteria include CAN 2.0A/B compliance, 64-pin LQFP mechanical compatibility, -40°C to +105°C extended temperature operation, and ColdFire V1 ISA_C instruction set support for legacy migration from MC9S08AC128.
Technical Context
The MCF51AC256AVPUE implements the ColdFire V1 core with background debug module (BDM), executing ISA_C instructions at up to 50.33 MHz. Its MCG supports FLL/PLL clock synthesis from crystal (1–16 MHz) or internal reference, enabling flexible system timing with LPO backup for COP/RTI.
It integrates two independent flexible timer modules (FTM1/FTM2) supporting input capture, edge- or center-aligned PWM, deadtime insertion, and hardware-triggered ADC conversions. The MSCAN module provides full CAN 2.0A/B protocol handling with five RX buffers, three prioritized TX buffers, and programmable wakeup filtering.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | ColdFire V1 32-bit RISC CPU, ISA_C compliant, 0.76 DMIPS/MHz from flash |
| Max Operating Frequency | 50.33 MHz at 2.7–5.5 V supply-enables real-time control loop execution within sub-20 µs latency |
| Memory | 256 KB on-chip flash (read/program/erase over full temp/voltage range) + 32 KB SRAM with security lock |
| ADC | 24-channel 12-bit SAR ADC with asynchronous clock option, auto-compare interrupt, and on-chip temperature sensor |
| CAN Interface | MSCAN module compliant with ISO 11898-1:2003; supports 1 Mbps bit rate, standard/extended frames, and bus-off recovery |
| Package | 64-pin LQFP, 10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch-compatible with standard SMT reflow profiles |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +105°C ambient-qualified for under-hood automotive and industrial control environments |
Pinout & Package
64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3. Pin functions validated per Figure 3 and Table 4 of Rev.7 datasheet.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PTA0 / TxCAN | CAN Transmit Output | Differential CAN bus driver output; requires external CAN transceiver (e.g., TJA1042) for physical layer |
| PTA1 / RxCAN | CAN Receive Input | Differential CAN bus receiver input; referenced to common-mode voltage range of external transceiver |
| BKGD / MS | Single-Wire Debug Interface | Background debug pin for BDM programming and real-time trace via VBUS; shared with master select function |
| RESET | Active-Low Reset Input | Asynchronous reset assertion; internal pull-up enables reset release without external circuitry |
| VDD / VSS | Power Supply / Ground | Separate analog (VDDA/VSSA) and digital (VDD/VSS) rails-mandatory decoupling required per Section 2.5 |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Rapid GPIO (RGPIO) | 16 pins accessible at full CPU clock speed with atomic set/clear/toggle-eliminates bit-banging overhead in real-time I/O |
| Flexible Timer Modules (FTM1/FTM2) | Each supports 6 PWM channels with deadtime insertion, synchronized register loads, and ADC trigger generation-ideal for 3-phase motor gate drive |
| Security Circuitry | Flash block protection and SRAM locking prevent unauthorized firmware extraction or memory dump during field service |
| Low-Power Operation | Three stop modes plus peripheral clock gating-enables <1 µA deep-sleep current with RTC and wake-on-CAN active |
| On-Chip Debug Visibility Bus (VBUS) | Real-time program trace with 6 hardware breakpoints and configurable start/stop conditions-reduces debug time for timing-critical ISR validation |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Control | Automotive Body Electronics |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop control of BLDC motors in HVAC blowers and power seat actuators using space-vector PWM. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary controller executing FOC algorithm, generating six PWM outputs via FTM1/FTM2, sampling current sensors via 12-bit ADC, and communicating status over CAN. Use Value: Integrated CAN 2.0B and 24-channel ADC eliminate external interface ICs; 50.33 MHz core ensures <10 µs control loop jitter. | Use Scenario: Central body controller managing door locks, window lifts, mirror adjustment, and lighting via LIN/CAN network. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: CAN node with five RX buffers and three prioritized TX buffers handling multiplexed messages; KBI pins detect mechanical switch closures. Use Value: Hardware CRC generator validates message integrity; LVD and COP ensure fail-safe reset during battery voltage sag. |
| Medical Infusion Pumps | Energy Metering Gateways |
Use Scenario: Precision fluid delivery system requiring certified safety monitoring, flow sensing, and HMI communication. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical controller running dual-core lockstep verification (via software partitioning), sampling pressure/flow sensors via ADC, and driving stepper motor via TPM/FTM PWM. Use Value: On-chip COP watchdog with independent LPO clock guarantees reset within 100 ms even if main oscillator fails. | Use Scenario: Smart meter data concentrator aggregating consumption data from sub-meters over RS-485 and reporting via CAN to utility head-end. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-SCI interface handles isolated RS-485 (SCI1) and CAN (SCI2 via transceiver), while CRC engine validates firmware OTA updates. Use Value: 256 KB flash stores dual-application images for A/B firmware update; 32 KB SRAM buffers burst data before CAN transmission. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCF51JM128VFP | 128 KB flash, no CAN, 64-pin QFP, same V1 core and peripheral set except MSCAN | Lacks CAN interface; suitable only for non-networked control where SPI/I²C suffice | Select when CAN is unnecessary and cost reduction is primary; verify pinout compatibility-QFP vs LQFP footprint differs |
| S9KEAZ128AMLH | Kinetis E-series ARM Cortex-M0+, 128 KB flash, CAN 2.0B, 64-pin LQFP, 48 MHz max | ARM ISA instead of ColdFire; different toolchain, debug interface (SWD vs BDM), and peripheral register map | Choose for new designs targeting ARM ecosystem; not drop-in compatible-requires full firmware rewrite and PCB layout review |
Compared with MCF51AC256AVPUE, MCF51JM128VFP reduces memory and removes CAN but retains identical debug and timer architecture, while S9KEAZ128AMLH offers modern ARM tooling and lower power but demands complete software re-architecture and validation.
Availability
MCF51AC256AVPUE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, automotive body electronics, and medical infusion pump designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MCF51AC256AVPUE 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 acquired Freescale in 2015 and maintains full support for the ColdFire portfolio, including documentation, tools, and long-term supply commitments for automotive-qualified parts.
The MCF51AC256 series belongs to NXP's legacy ColdFire microcontroller product line, designed specifically for seamless migration from 8-bit S08 platforms to 32-bit performance while preserving peripheral compatibility and development tool investment.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MCF51AC256AVPUE and under what voltage conditions?
The MCF51AC256AVPUE operates at up to 50.33 MHz across its full supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V. This frequency is achievable with the MCG configured in PLL mode using an external 8 MHz crystal, as specified in Table 16 of the Rev.7 datasheet. Performance remains stable over the full -40°C to +105°C temperature range without derating.
Does the MCF51AC256AVPUE support CAN FD or only classical CAN 2.0?
The MCF51AC256AVPUE implements only classical CAN 2.0A/B protocol (ISO 11898-1:2003) with fixed 11-bit or 29-bit identifiers and up to 8-byte payloads. It does not support CAN FD features such as flexible data-rate switching or extended payload lengths. The MSCAN module is hardware-limited to 1 Mbps maximum bit rate.
How many analog comparator channels does the MCF51AC256AVPUE include, and are they independently configurable?
The MCF51AC256AVPUE includes two independent analog comparators (ACMP1 and ACMP2), each with dedicated +, –, and output pins (e.g., PTA4/PTA5/PTA3 for ACMP2). Both support rail-to-rail operation, selectable interrupt edges, internal bandgap reference comparison, and pin-visible output-fully configurable via ACMPxSC registers without shared resources.
Is the MCF51AC256AVPUE pin-compatible with other members of the MCF51AC256 family in the same 64-pin LQFP package?
Yes-the MCF51AC256AVPUE shares identical pinout and electrical characteristics with MCF51AC256BVPUE (CAN-disabled variant) and MCF51AC128AVPUE (128 KB flash variant) in the 64-pin LQFP package, as confirmed by Table 4 and Figure 3 of the Rev.7 datasheet. All share identical power, reset, debug, and peripheral pin assignments.
What debug interface does the MCF51AC256AVPUE use, and what tools are required for firmware programming?
The MCF51AC256AVPUE uses a single-wire Background Debug Mode (BDM) interface via the BKGD/MS pin. Programming and debugging require NXP's CodeWarrior Development Studio with a BDM-compatible probe (e.g., USB-ML-12 or standalone PEMicro interfaces). Real-time trace is enabled via the VBUS signal routed to the debug probe.
MCF51AC256AVPUE Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 64-LQFP
- Series:
- MCF51AC
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- Coldfire V1
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, I2C, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 54
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 32K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 20x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- External
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MCF51AC256AVPUE FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCF51AC256AVPUE through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCF51AC256AVPUE 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 MCF51AC256AVPUE reliable?
The price and inventory of MCF51AC256AVPUE are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCF51AC256AVPUE is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCF51AC256AVPUE?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCF51AC256AVPUE transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCF51AC256AVPUE?
MCF51AC256AVPUE orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCF51AC256AVPUE 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 MCF51AC256AVPUE?
For technical support, including MCF51AC256AVPUE datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCF51AC256AVPUE requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCF51AC256AVPUE is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCF51AC256AVPUE 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 MCF51AC256AVPUE meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCF51AC256AVPUE?
All MCF51AC256AVPUE units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCF51AC256AVPUE, 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 MCF51AC256AVPUE part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCF51AC256AVPUE:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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