NXP Semiconductors MCF51QE32LH
- Part No.:
- MCF51QE32LH
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 64-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MCF51QE32LH.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 32KB FLASH 64LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:711
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Product details
Overview
MCF51QE32LH from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V1 microcontroller designed for low-power embedded control applications. It features a 32 KB flash memory, 8 KB RAM, 54 GPIOs, two 12-bit ADCs (20-channel), two analog comparators, dual SCI/UART, dual SPI, dual I²C, three TPM timer/PWM modules, RTC, and operates from 1.8–3.6 V across 0–70°C. It targets battery-powered industrial sensors and smart metering endpoints.
For engineers reviewing the MCF51QE32LH datasheet, MCF51QE32LH pinout, MCF51QE32LH application, or MCF51QE32LH equivalent, key selection criteria include its 32 KB flash size, 64-pin LQFP package with 54 usable I/Os, stop3 mode current of ≤1.3 μA, 12-bit ADC with temperature sensor, and ColdFire ISA_C instruction set compatibility - all critical for energy-constrained MCU replacement and firmware migration projects.
Technical Context
The MCF51QE32LH implements the ColdFire Version 1 CPU core with Instruction Set Revision C (ISA_C), delivering 0.76 DMIPS/MHz from flash and supporting up to 30 peripheral interrupts. Its internal clock source (ICS) uses an FLL with factory-trimmed internal reference (±2% deviation, 0.2% resolution) to generate CPU frequencies from 2 MHz to 50.33 MHz.
Power management includes Stop2 (≤0.8 μA) and Stop3 (≤1.3 μA) modes with selective peripheral clock gating, a 1 kHz low-power RTC running in all modes, and wake-up capability via KBI, SCI, or external IRQ within 6 μs. Analog subsystems operate down to 1.8 V: ADC achieves 2.5 μs conversion at full resolution, and ACMPs support bandgap-referenced comparison with routing to TPM for event-triggered PWM.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | ColdFire V1 CPU, ISA_C instruction set, 32-bit data path |
| Flash Memory | 32 KB on-chip flash with read/program/erase over full voltage/temperature range |
| RAM Size | 8 KB SRAM with security lock to prevent unauthorized access |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit SAR ADC with 20 input channels, 2.5 μs conversion time, internal temp sensor (1.7 mV/°C) |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V; supports 20 MHz CPU operation at 1.8 V minimum |
| Temperature Range | 0°C to +70°C ambient operating range (industrial grade) |
| Package | 64-pin LQFP (Case 840F, 10 mm² footprint) |
| Low-Power Modes | Stop2 (0.6–0.8 μA), Stop3 (0.8–1.3 μA), wait mode (0.73–13.7 mA) with sub-μA RTC and LPO |
Pinout & Package
Package: 64-pin LQFP (Case 840F, 10 mm² body, 0.5 mm pitch). Pinout validated per Freescale Document MCF51QE128 Rev. 7, Table 2 and Figure 3 (64-pin LQFP assignment).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PTA4/BKGD/MS | Background Debug / Master Select | Single-wire debug interface pin; output-only port function; essential for programming and real-time trace |
| PTA5/IRQ/RESET | Interrupt Request / Reset Input | Dual-function pin: active-low hardware reset and configurable external interrupt source |
| PTB6/SDA1/XTAL | I²C Data / Crystal Input | Shared pin: SDA1 for I²C1 bus or XTAL input for external crystal oscillator (1–16 MHz) |
| PTB7/SCL1/EXTAL | I²C Clock / Crystal Output | Shared pin: SCL1 for I²C1 bus or EXTAL output for external crystal oscillator circuit |
| PTE0/TPM2CLK/SPSCK1 | Timer Clock / SPI Clock | Configurable clock source input for TPM2 or SPI1 serial clock (master mode) |
| PTC4/RSTO/TPM3CH4 | Reset Output / PWM Channel | Active-low reset signal output or TPM3 channel 4 PWM output; enables system-level reset coordination |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Energy-efficient ColdFire Core | 0.76 DMIPS/MHz from flash; 6 μs wake-up from Stop3 mode enables rapid response in duty-cycled systems |
| Integrated Analog Subsystem | 20-channel 12-bit ADC with internal temperature sensor and bandgap reference; ACMPs support edge-triggered interrupts routed to TPM for hardware event timing |
| Selective Peripheral Clock Gating | Peripheral clock enable register disables clocks to unused modules while retaining clock to active peripherals in Stop3 mode - reduces dynamic power without sacrificing functionality |
| Secure On-Chip Memory | Flash block protection and RAM security circuitry prevent unauthorized read/write access to firmware and runtime data - critical for certified industrial firmware |
| Robust System Protection | Watchdog (COP) with dedicated 1-kHz clock source, low-voltage detect with programmable thresholds (VLVDL = 1.80–1.99 V), illegal opcode/address detection with configurable exception response |
Applications
| Smart Utility Metering | Industrial Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered electricity/water/gas meters requiring decade-long field life and periodic data upload via UART or SPI to concentrator modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary controller managing ADC sampling of metering transducers, RTC-based billing intervals, secure flash storage of consumption logs, and SCI/UART communication with RF or PLC modems. Use Value: Stop3 current ≤1.3 μA and RTC running on internal 1-kHz LPO enable >10-year battery life; 12-bit ADC with temperature compensation ensures metrology-grade accuracy across temperature. | Use Scenario: Wireless condition-monitoring node deployed in factory environments measuring vibration, temperature, and humidity with local decision logic before wireless transmission. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time sensor fusion hub: acquires analog signals via ADC/ACMP, executes threshold-based alarms using TPM-triggered PWM outputs, and communicates status via dual SCI to BLE/Wi-Fi module. Use Value: 54 GPIOs with configurable slew rate and hysteresis tolerate noisy industrial EMI; dual I²C interfaces allow direct connection to multiple digital sensors without level-shifting. |
| Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) I/O Module | Medical Diagnostic Handheld |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted remote I/O expansion module for small-scale PLCs, accepting discrete inputs and driving relay/SSR outputs under Modbus RTU protocol. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol-aware controller implementing Modbus RTU over SCI1/SCI2, managing opto-isolated digital I/O via GPIOs, and generating precise timing for pulse-width modulated outputs using TPM modules. Use Value: Dual SCI with LIN break generation/detection supports legacy industrial fieldbus integration; 32 KB flash accommodates Modbus stack plus application logic and firmware update handling. | Use Scenario: Portable diagnostic device performing point-of-care blood analysis, requiring precise analog signal acquisition, low-noise operation, and USB-serial bridging for PC connectivity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Signal acquisition engine: conditions analog sensor outputs, performs 12-bit ADC conversions with internal bandgap reference, stores calibrated results in secure RAM, and streams data via SCI to USB-UART bridge IC. Use Value: ADC's 1.7 mV/°C integrated temperature sensor enables real-time thermal drift correction; 1.8 V minimum operating voltage extends battery runtime during low-power standby states. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kinetis KL25Z128VLK4 | ARM Cortex-M0+ core, 128 KB flash, 16 KB RAM, 48 MHz max, 32-pin LQFP option only | Higher performance, larger memory, but no ColdFire ISA compatibility; requires full firmware rewrite | Choose for new designs needing ARM ecosystem tooling and higher throughput; not suitable for ColdFire code migration. |
| MCF51JM32LH | Same ColdFire V1 core, identical 32 KB flash/8 KB RAM, but adds USB 2.0 OTG and removes one SCI; 64-pin LQFP | USB host/device capability replaces SCI2; lacks second UART needed for dual-protocol gateways | Prefer when USB connectivity is mandatory and SCI2 is redundant; verify pin compatibility for existing PCB layout. |
Compared with Kinetis KL25Z128VLK4 and MCF51JM32LH, the MCF51QE32LH offers ColdFire ISA_C binary compatibility, lower stop-mode current (1.3 μA vs. ~2.5 μA), and dual SCI for simultaneous legacy protocol support - making it optimal for maintaining and extending existing ColdFire-based industrial firmware.
Availability
MCF51QE32LH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart utility metering, industrial sensor nodes, and programmable logic controller I/O modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and verified automotive-grade reliability.
Supply support for MCF51QE32LH 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 microcontroller innovation through its acquisition of Freescale.
The MCF51QE32LH belongs to the ColdFire QE series - designed specifically for ultra-low-power, cost-sensitive industrial control applications where deterministic real-time response, analog integration, and long battery life are prioritized over raw compute throughput.
FAQ
What is the maximum CPU frequency supported by the MCF51QE32LH at 1.8 V?
The MCF51QE32LH supports up to 20 MHz CPU frequency when operating at 1.8 V minimum supply voltage, as specified in the Freescale MCF51QE128 Series Data Sheet Rev. 7. This frequency scaling enables deterministic real-time execution while maintaining ultra-low power consumption in battery-powered applications. The MCF51QE32LH achieves this using its internal clock source (ICS) with FLL-based frequency synthesis and factory-trimmed reference.
Does the MCF51QE32LH include hardware security features to protect firmware?
Yes, the MCF51QE32LH integrates flash block protection and RAM security circuitry that prevents unauthorized read or write access to on-chip memory contents. These features are implemented in hardware and enforce memory access restrictions independent of software execution state. The MCF51QE32LH security architecture is designed to safeguard proprietary firmware and sensitive runtime data in industrial deployments where tampering or reverse engineering is a concern.
Can the MCF51QE32LH operate in stop modes while maintaining RTC functionality?
Yes, the MCF51QE32LH supports full RTC operation - including free-running counter, calendar functions, and cyclic wake-up - in Run, Wait, and Stop3 modes. In Stop3 mode, the RTC runs from either the internal 1-kHz low-power oscillator (LPO) or an external clock source, consuming only 50–150 nA additional current. This capability allows the MCF51QE32LH to maintain accurate timekeeping and schedule timed wake-ups without external components or power penalties.
How many analog-to-digital converter channels does the MCF51QE32LH support, and what is its resolution?
The MCF51QE32LH supports 20 analog input channels with 12-bit resolution using its integrated SAR ADC. It delivers 2.5 μs conversion time, includes an internal temperature sensor (1.7 mV/°C), and provides an internal bandgap reference channel. The ADC remains fully functional down to 1.8 V supply and operates in Stop3 mode, enabling precise sensor measurements in ultra-low-power monitoring applications using the MCF51QE32LH.
What debug interface does the MCF51QE32LH provide, and how many breakpoints are supported?
The MCF51QE32LH provides a single-wire background debug (BDC) interface via the PTA4/BKGD/MS pin, compatible with standard ColdFire debug tools. It supports four program counter (PC) breakpoint registers and two address breakpoint registers, with optional data matching and programmable 1- or 2-level trigger responses. This debug infrastructure is fully integrated into the MCF51QE32LH silicon and enables non-intrusive real-time tracing and firmware validation without requiring additional pins or external hardware.
MCF51QE32LH Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 64-LQFP
- Series:
- MCF51QE
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- Coldfire V1
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, SCI, SPI
- Peripherals:
- LVD, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 54
- Program Memory Size:
- 32KB (32K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 8K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 20x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MCF51QE32LH FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCF51QE32LH through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCF51QE32LH 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 MCF51QE32LH reliable?
The price and inventory of MCF51QE32LH are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCF51QE32LH is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCF51QE32LH?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCF51QE32LH transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCF51QE32LH?
MCF51QE32LH orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCF51QE32LH 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 MCF51QE32LH?
For technical support, including MCF51QE32LH datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCF51QE32LH requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCF51QE32LH is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCF51QE32LH 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 MCF51QE32LH meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCF51QE32LH?
All MCF51QE32LH units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCF51QE32LH, 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 MCF51QE32LH part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCF51QE32LH:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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