NXP Semiconductors MCF5249LCAG120

Overview

MCF5249LCAG120 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V2 microcontroller with 120 MHz core clock, 256 KB on-chip Flash, 32 KB SRAM, and integrated USB 2.0 OTG controller. It targets industrial control and networked embedded systems requiring deterministic real-time response and peripheral integration.

For engineers reviewing the MCF5249LCAG120 datasheet, MCF5249LCAG120 pinout, MCF5249LCAG120 application, or MCF5249LCAG120 equivalent, key selection criteria include ColdFire V2 ISA compatibility, USB OTG host/device capability, external bus interface timing, and QFP-160 package mechanical constraints.

Technical Context

The MCF5249LCAG120 implements the ColdFire V2 core with 3-stage pipeline, Harvard architecture, and 16 KB instruction/8 KB data cache. It supports full JTAG debug via COP and includes a programmable interrupt controller with 64 vector entries.

Peripheral integration includes a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet MAC (no PHY), three UARTs with IrDA support, two SPI modules, two I²C controllers, and a 16-channel DMA engine synchronized to the 120 MHz system clock.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 160-pin Low-Profile Quad Flat Package (LQFP), 24 mm × 24 mm body, 0.5 mm lead pitch, exposed thermal pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 32-bit industrial microcontroller applications.

Compared with K60DN512ZVLQ10 and MPC5604B, the MCF5249LCAG120 uniquely combines 120 MHz ColdFire performance, integrated Ethernet MAC, and USB OTG in a single LQFP-160 package-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, non-automotive industrial gateways requiring both wired and plug-and-play connectivity.

Availability

MCF5249LCAG120 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, networked HMI terminals, building automation gateways, and test & measurement instruments requiring stable component supply and long-term production support.

Supply support for MCF5249LCAG120 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 company formed from the spin-off of Philips' semiconductor division, specializing in secure connectivity and infrastructure solutions.

The MCF5249LCAG120 belongs to the ColdFire V2 microcontroller family, designed specifically for deterministic real-time industrial control applications requiring integrated communication peripherals and robust flash-based firmware execution.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MCF5249LCAG120?

The MCF5249LCAG120 operates at a maximum core clock frequency of 120 MHz, as specified in the SCF5250 User's Manual (Rev. 0, May 2009). This frequency is achieved using an external crystal or oscillator driving the PLL module, and all on-chip peripherals-including USB OTG and Ethernet MAC-are fully functional at this rate. The MCF5249LCAG120 maintains timing compliance across its entire temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) at 120 MHz.

Does the MCF5249LCAG120 include an integrated Ethernet PHY?

No, the MCF5249LCAG120 integrates only the Ethernet MAC layer compliant with IEEE 802.3. An external PHY device is required for physical-layer signaling. The MCF5249LCAG120 provides MII and RMII interfaces with precise timing control, supporting common PHYs such as the DP83848 or LAN8720. This separation allows flexible PHY selection based on voltage, ESD rating, or transformerless requirements.

What debug interface does the MCF5249LCAG120 support?

The MCF5249LCAG120 supports full JTAG boundary-scan and on-chip debugging via the COP (Chip Operating Environment) interface. It is compatible with P&E Micro and Segger J-Link debug probes, and supports real-time trace via the Background Debug Mode (BDM) port. The MCF5249LCAG120 does not implement SWD or ARM-style debug protocols, as it uses the ColdFire-specific BDM architecture.

Is the MCF5249LCAG120 pin-compatible with other ColdFire family members?

No, the MCF5249LCAG120 is not pin-compatible with earlier ColdFire variants such as MCF5206 or MCF5272. Its 160-pin LQFP footprint, signal multiplexing scheme, and power domain partitioning (e.g., eight VDDIO rails) are unique to the MCF5249 series. Migration from other ColdFire devices requires PCB redesign and firmware adaptation due to differences in peripheral register maps and clock tree configuration.

What is the Flash endurance specification for the MCF5249LCAG120?

The on-chip 256 KB Flash memory in the MCF5249LCAG120 is rated for a minimum of 10,000 write/erase cycles per sector, with data retention guaranteed for 20 years at +85°C. Erase operations are performed at sector level (4 KB minimum), and programming is byte- or word-addressable. These specifications are validated per Freescale's qualification testing and documented in the MCF5249 Hardware Specifications section of the SCF5250UM.