NXP Semiconductors MCF51AG128CLF

Overview

MCF51AG128CLF from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V1 microcontroller designed for industrial and appliance control systems. It integrates 128 KB flash, 16 KB RAM, dual 12-bit ADCs with 24 inputs, two FTM timer modules (6-channel each), and a hardware CRC engine. It operates up to 50.33 MHz across 2.7–5.5 V and supports ultra-low-power stop modes - deployed in motor control, HVAC, and smart metering applications.

For engineers reviewing the MCF51AG128CLF datasheet, MCF51AG128CLF pinout, MCF51AG128CLF application, or MCF51AG128CLF equivalent, key selection criteria include ColdFire ISA_C compatibility, 80-pin LQFP package with RGPIO support, on-chip debug via single-wire BDM, and integrated EWM/WDOG for system-level fault containment.

Technical Context

The MCF51AG128CLF implements the ColdFire V1 core with ISA_C instruction set revision, delivering 0.94 DMIPS/MHz from internal RAM. Its system clock architecture combines an external crystal oscillator (31.25 kHz–16 MHz) and an internal frequency-locked loop (ICS) with ±2% deviation over –40°C to +105°C.

Peripheral integration includes two independent 12-bit ADCs with asynchronous trigger sources (RTC, PDB, iEvent), dual FTM modules supporting deadtime insertion and synchronized register loading, and a programmable iEvent module enabling combinational logic outputs for DMA/interrupt generation without CPU intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 80-pin LQFP (14 mm × 14 mm), RoHS-compliant, lead-free, moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.

Compared with K22FN512VLH12 and MCF52259CAG80, the MCF51AG128CLF offers optimal balance of deterministic real-time response, ultra-low-power stop modes, and minimal external component count for cost-sensitive industrial control - without requiring architectural re-architecting or PCB redesign.

Availability

MCF51AG128CLF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control, smart metering, HVAC, and industrial PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for MCF51AG128CLF 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 applications.

The MCF51AG128CLF belongs to NXP's ColdFire microcontroller product line, engineered for deterministic real-time control in cost-sensitive industrial and appliance applications - emphasizing low-power operation, integrated analog peripherals, and robust system-level protection.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency and voltage range for the MCF51AG128CLF?

The MCF51AG128CLF operates up to 50.33 MHz across a supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V. This wide voltage tolerance allows direct interfacing with both 3.3 V and 5 V peripheral buses without level-shifting, and supports operation from unregulated power supplies common in industrial environments. The ColdFire V1 core maintains consistent DMIPS/MHz performance across this entire range.

Does the MCF51AG128CLF support hardware debug during real-time operation?

Yes, the MCF51AG128CLF includes a single-wire background debug module (BDM) that enables non-intrusive real-time debugging. It supports six hardware breakpoints (four PC, one address pair, one data), on-chip trace buffer with programmable start/stop conditions, and real-time program trace via the debug visibility bus - all without halting CPU execution or disrupting time-critical tasks.

How many analog inputs does the MCF51AG128CLF ADC support, and what resolution options are available?

The MCF51AG128CLF features a 24-channel 12-bit successive approximation register (SAR) ADC. Conversion results can be formatted in 12-, 10-, or 8-bit right-justified output, allowing flexible trade-offs between precision and data bandwidth. The ADC supports asynchronous clocking and hardware-triggered conversions from RTC, PDB, or iEvent sources - critical for synchronized sampling in motor control.

What power-saving modes are implemented in the MCF51AG128CLF, and how do they affect peripheral operation?

The MCF51AG128CLF provides three ultra-low-power stop modes and a reduced-power wait mode. In Stop3 mode, the ADC, RTC, and I²C retain wake-up capability via address match; clocks to unused peripherals can be disabled via the peripheral clock enable register. This enables sub-µA standby current while preserving responsiveness to external events - essential for battery-powered sensor nodes.

Is the MCF51AG128CLF pin-compatible with other members of the MCF51AG series, such as the MCF51AG96?

No, the MCF51AG128CLF is not pin-compatible with the MCF51AG96 across all packages. While both share the 80-pin LQFP variant, the 64-pin and 48-pin versions differ in pin availability and alternate function mapping per Table 3 of the datasheet. For example, PTE3/RGPIO3/FTM1CH1 is present in the 80-pin MCF51AG128CLF but omitted in the 48-pin MCF51AG96 - requiring PCB layout changes for migration.