NXP Semiconductors MCF51CN128CGT
- Part No.:
- MCF51CN128CGT
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCF51CN128CGT.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 128KB FLASH 48QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MCF51CN128CGT from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V1 microcontroller featuring 128 KB flash, 24 KB RAM, integrated 10/100 BASE-T/TX Fast Ethernet Controller (FEC) with MII interface, Mini-FlexBus external bus interface, and dual 16-bit TPM modules. It operates up to 50.33 MHz at 3.6–3.0 V and supports low-power stop/wait modes with 6 μs wake-up time - deployed in industrial ethernet gateways and protocol-conversion edge nodes.
For engineers reviewing the MCF51CN128CGT datasheet, MCF51CN128CGT pinout, MCF51CN128CGT application, or MCF51CN128CGT equivalent, key selection criteria include FEC DMA capability, QFN-48 package compatibility, 12-channel 12-bit ADC with temperature sensor, RGPIO support for high-speed I/O toggling, and MCG clock generator with FLL/PLL options across 1.8–3.6 V operation.
Technical Context
The MCF51CN128CGT implements the ColdFire V1 ISA_C core with hardware BDM debug interface and a 2×3 crossbar switch enabling concurrent peripheral access. Its FEC operates as a bus-mastering DMA controller supporting half/full-duplex 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, requiring external PHY via MII with dedicated output clock.
Mini-FlexBus provides glueless asynchronous memory expansion up to 1 MB with per-chip-select programmable timing, while the MCG offers flexible clock synthesis using internal reference (0.2% resolution) or external crystal (1–25 MHz), enabling precise low-power run/stop mode operation with RTC and ADC active in stop3.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ColdFire V1 ISA_C - delivers 0.94 DMIPS/MHz from RAM; supports 45 peripheral + 7 software interrupts |
| Memory | 128 KB on-chip flash (read/program/erase over full voltage/temp); 24 KB RAM; aliased memory map for seamless external expansion |
| Ethernet Interface | FEC with MII - enables direct connection to external PHY; supports DMA transfers during low-power wait mode without CPU wake-up |
| ADC | 12-channel, 12-bit SAR ADC - 2.5 μs conversion time; internal bandgap reference; temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C); functional in stop3 mode |
| Power Modes | Two stop modes (one with RTC/ADC/KBI active); reduced-power wait mode with full peripheral operation; 6 μs typical wake-up from stop3 |
| Package | 48-pin QFN (7 mm × 7 mm) - copper-wire bonded; exposed thermal pad; no electrical flag connection |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - CPU frequency scales: 20 MHz (1.8–2.1 V), 40 MHz (2.1–3.0 V), 50.33 MHz (3.0–3.6 V) |
Pinout & Package
48-pin QFN package (7 mm × 7 mm) with exposed thermal pad; copper-wire bonding per Freescale QFN migration addendum (98ASA00466D). Pinout validated per Figure 4 and Table 2 of Rev. 4 datasheet.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PTA0 | PHY Clock Input | Accepts 25 MHz clock from external PHY; required for MII synchronous operation |
| PTB0–PTB7 | MII RX/TX Data & Control | Provides full MII signal set (RX_CLK, RX_DV, TX_EN, TXD[0:3], TX_ER, CRS, COL) for 10/100 Mbps link layer |
| PTC0–PTC2 | MII Management & Status | MDIO/MDC for PHY register access; CRS/CRS for carrier detection; COL for collision indication |
| PTF0–PTF7 | RGPIO / FlexBus Address/Data | Selectable between Rapid GPIO (set/clear/toggle) or Mini-FlexBus AD[19:13] and A[19:13] for external memory interfacing |
| PTD0–PTD7 | RGPIO / UART / SPI / ADC | Configurable as RGPIO (high-speed toggle), SCI1/2/3, SPI2, or 8-channel ADC inputs (ADP0–ADP7) |
| PTE0–PTE7 | KBI / TPM / IRQ / FlexBus | Keyboard interrupt inputs (KBI2P0–KBI2P7), TPM1 channels, IRQ, or FlexBus D0–CS0 signals |
| PTG0–PTG7 | KBI / FlexBus / I²C | Keyboard interrupt inputs (KBI1P0–KBI1P7), FlexBus RW/CS1/D1–D3, or I²C SDA1/SCL1/SDA2/SCL2 |
| BKGD/MS | Debug & Mode Select | Single-wire BDM interface for background debug; also functions as master select for external bus arbitration |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| FEC with MII DMA | Enables zero-CPU-overhead packet reception/transmission; DMA buffers accessible during low-power wait mode |
| Mini-FlexBus | Glueless interface to SRAM, Flash, or FPGA with per-chip-select timing control - eliminates external logic in gateway designs |
| Rapid GPIO (RGPIO) | 16 pins (PTD0–PTD7, PTF0–PTF7) with atomic set/clear/toggle registers - reduces bit-banging latency in real-time I/O |
| Stop3 Low-Power Mode | RTC, ADC, KBI remain fully operational with 6 μs wake-up; uses low-power external oscillator for timing accuracy |
| MCG Clock Generator | FLL with 0.2% internal reference trimming + PLL option - enables stable clock synthesis across voltage/temp without external crystal |
Applications
| Industrial Ethernet Gateway | Smart Energy Metering Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protocol translation between Modbus RTU (RS-485) and EtherNet/IP in factory automation networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCF51CN128CGT acts as the central protocol stack processor and FEC-based Ethernet endpoint, managing dual SCI interfaces and real-time scheduling via RTC and TPM. Use Value: Integrated FEC + Mini-FlexBus allows direct connection to external PHY and local FRAM/NOR Flash - reducing BOM count by 3 components versus discrete MAC + PHY + memory controller solutions. | Use Scenario: Two-way communication node in AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) collecting meter data via RS-485 and forwarding via 100BASE-TX Ethernet. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCU handles secure firmware updates over Ethernet, executes metrology algorithms using ADC temperature compensation, and maintains accurate time-stamping via RTC in stop3 mode. Use Value: 12-bit ADC with on-chip temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C) enables drift compensation for precision current/voltage measurement - meeting ANSI C12.20 Class 0.2 accuracy requirements. |
| Building Automation Controller | Embedded Network Appliance |
Use Scenario: HVAC controller aggregating BACnet MS/TP sensor data and bridging to IP backbone via Ethernet. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCF51CN128CGT runs BACnet stack, manages multiple SCI/I²C peripherals, and services Ethernet requests using FEC DMA to avoid CPU bottlenecks. Use Value: Dual I²C interfaces (IIC1/IIC2) support simultaneous connection to temperature/humidity sensors and EEPROM configuration storage - eliminating external I²C multiplexer. | Use Scenario: Compact network-attached device performing TLS-secured remote diagnostics and firmware updates. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCU executes lightweight TCP/IP stack, validates firmware signatures in flash using security circuitry, and manages secure boot via protected memory regions. Use Value: Flash block protection and RAM/peripheral access security prevent unauthorized read-out of cryptographic keys - satisfying IEC 62443-3-3 SL2 requirements for embedded security. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kinetis K64F120M | ARM Cortex-M4 core; 120 MHz; 1 MB flash; integrated 10/100 Ethernet MAC (no PHY); requires external PHY and magnetics | Higher performance for complex protocol stacks (e.g., IPv6, MQTT-SN); lacks Mini-FlexBus but adds USB OTG and SDHC | Select when needing >100 MHz throughput or USB host capability; verify PHY layout compatibility and power sequencing |
| MCF52259 | ColdFire V2 core; 144 MHz; 512 KB flash; same FEC/MII architecture; 128-pin LQFP only - no QFN option | Higher integration for demanding gateway applications; supports additional peripherals (USB, CAN, LCD) but larger footprint and higher cost | Select when requiring CAN bus support or higher clock speed; not suitable for space-constrained QFN-only designs |
Compared with Kinetis K64F120M and MCF52259, the MCF51CN128CGT offers optimal balance of Ethernet functionality, low-power operation, and compact 48-QFN packaging - making it uniquely suited for cost-sensitive, size-constrained industrial edge nodes where ColdFire toolchain familiarity and proven FEC reliability are critical.
Availability
MCF51CN128CGT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial ethernet gateways, smart energy metering nodes, and building automation controllers requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MCF51CN128CGT 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 continues to support ColdFire-based microcontrollers for industrial and automotive applications.
The MCF51CN128CGT belongs to the ColdFire V1 microcontroller family, designed specifically for deterministic real-time control in resource-constrained ethernet-connected edge devices - emphasizing low-power operation, integrated networking, and robust debug infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MCF51CN128CGT and under what voltage conditions?
The MCF51CN128CGT achieves up to 50.33 MHz at 3.0–3.6 V supply, 40 MHz at 2.1–3.0 V, and 20 MHz at 1.8–2.1 V across –40 °C to +85 °C ambient. These frequency-voltage relationships are guaranteed per DC characteristics Table 8 and must be observed to maintain timing compliance and avoid reset events.
Does the MCF51CN128CGT support Ethernet operation in low-power modes?
Yes, the MCF51CN128CGT supports FEC DMA transfers during reduced-power wait mode - allowing Ethernet packet processing without CPU intervention. The FEC remains fully active and can assert interrupts to wake the CPU upon DMA completion, enabling energy-efficient always-on connectivity.
What debugging interface does the MCF51CN128CGT provide and is external hardware required?
The MCF51CN128CGT integrates a single-wire Background Debug Module (BDM) compatible with S08, 9S12, and 9S12X families. No external JTAG adapter is needed - standard BDM probes (e.g., P&E Multilink) connect directly to BKGD/MS and ground, supporting full breakpoint, trace, and memory access capabilities.
How many analog input channels does the MCF51CN128CGT ADC support and what is its resolution?
The MCF51CN128CGT features a 12-bit successive approximation register (SAR) ADC with up to 12 input channels (ADP0–ADP11), 2.5 μs conversion time, and integrated temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C). It operates across the full 1.8–3.6 V range and remains functional in stop3 mode for battery-backed sensing.
Is the MCF51CN128CGT pin-compatible with other members of the MCF51CN series?
No - the MCF51CN128CGT in 48-QFN is not pin-compatible with 64-LQFP or 80-LQFP variants of the same series. Pin assignments differ significantly (e.g., Mini-FlexBus signals appear only on larger packages), and RGPIO mapping is unique to the 48-pin layout per Table 2 of the datasheet.
MCF51CN128CGT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Series:
- MCF51CN
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- Coldfire V1
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- Ethernet, I2C, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 38
- Program Memory Size:
- 128KB (128K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 24K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 12x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- External
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MCF51CN128CGT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCF51CN128CGT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCF51CN128CGT 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 MCF51CN128CGT reliable?
The price and inventory of MCF51CN128CGT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCF51CN128CGT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCF51CN128CGT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCF51CN128CGT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCF51CN128CGT?
MCF51CN128CGT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCF51CN128CGT 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 MCF51CN128CGT?
For technical support, including MCF51CN128CGT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCF51CN128CGT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCF51CN128CGT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCF51CN128CGT 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 MCF51CN128CGT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCF51CN128CGT?
All MCF51CN128CGT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCF51CN128CGT, 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 MCF51CN128CGT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCF51CN128CGT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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