NXP Semiconductors MCF5272CVF66

Overview

MCF5272CVF66 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V2 integrated microprocessor with on-chip 66 MHz CPU core, 16 KB SRAM, 256 KB ROM, Ethernet MAC, USB 1.1 device controller, and SDRAM interface. It integrates QSPI, UARTs, timers, PWM, DMA, and JTAG debug support for embedded networking and communications applications.

For engineers reviewing the MCF5272CVF66 datasheet, MCF5272CVF66 pinout, MCF5272CVF66 application, or MCF5272CVF66 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 66 MHz ColdFire V2 core performance, integrated 10/100 Mbps Ethernet MAC without external PHY, USB 1.1 device-only capability, and support for up to 128 MB SDRAM - critical for real-time protocol stacks and headless industrial gateways.

Technical Context

The MCF5272CVF66 implements the ColdFire V2 instruction set architecture with hardware MAC unit and five-stage pipeline. It executes instructions at 66 MHz with typical 42 MIPS performance and supports little-endian memory addressing.

Its System Integration Module (SIM) provides clock generation, power management, watchdog, and interrupt control. The integrated Ethernet module complies with IEEE 802.3 and supports MII interface; USB module implements full-speed (12 Mbps) device-only functionality per USB 1.1 specification.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 256-pin LQFP (28 × 28 mm, 0.4 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, thermal pad exposed on underside.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCF5272CVF66, MCF5271CVF66 removes Ethernet and USB to lower cost and power, while MCF5282CVM66 upgrades core architecture and adds display/USB OTG - making MCF5272CVF66 the optimal balance of proven Ethernet/ISDN integration, mature toolchain support, and cost-effective LQFP packaging for dedicated protocol gateway roles.

Availability

MCF5272CVF66 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for SOHO network gateways, ISDN terminal adapters, industrial serial-to-Ethernet bridges, and legacy equipment protocol converters requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MCF5272CVF66 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, now specializing in secure connectivity, automotive, industrial, and IoT solutions.

The MCF5272CVF66 belongs to NXP's ColdFire microprocessor family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, real-time embedded networking and communications applications requiring integrated Ethernet, ISDN, and serial interfaces without external co-processors.

FAQ

What is the maximum SDRAM capacity supported by the MCF5272CVF66?

The MCF5272CVF66 supports up to 128 MB of 32-bit SDRAM using its integrated SDRAM controller. This is achieved through programmable row/column address bits and bank-select logic, enabling use of standard JEDEC-compliant SDRAM chips such as 16M×16 or 32M×16 configurations. The controller handles refresh, burst access, and timing parameter configuration via SDCR and SDTR registers. MCF5272CVF66 design documentation confirms this limit across all operating conditions.

Does the MCF5272CVF66 include an integrated Ethernet PHY?

No, the MCF5272CVF66 integrates only the Ethernet MAC layer compliant with IEEE 802.3, not the physical layer (PHY). It provides a standard MII interface with signals including ETXD[0:3], ETXEN, ETXER, ERXD[0:3], ERXDV, and ERXER, requiring connection to an external 10/100 Mbps PHY IC. This separation allows design flexibility in selecting PHYs with specific features like energy-efficient Ethernet or transformerless layout. MCF5272CVF66 user manual Rev. 3 explicitly states MAC-only implementation.

Can the MCF5272CVF66 operate as a USB host?

No, the MCF5272CVF66 implements only USB 1.1 device-mode functionality - it cannot act as a USB host. Its USB module supports full-speed (12 Mbps) device enumeration and endpoint management (up to 7 additional endpoints beyond EP0), but lacks host controller logic, root hub support, or SOF generation capability. Applications must connect MCF5272CVF66 to a USB host (e.g., PC) for configuration or firmware updates. This limitation is documented in Chapter 12 of the MCF5272UM Rev. 3.

What debug interface does the MCF5272CVF66 provide?

The MCF5272CVF66 provides IEEE 1149.1 JTAG Test Access Port (TAP) and Background Debug Mode (BDM) support. This includes TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO, and TRST pins, enabling boundary scan testing, flash programming, real-time register read/write, and hardware breakpoints via compatible debug probes. The BDM module supports commands like RAREG, WAREG, READ, WRITE, and GO - all detailed in Chapter 5 of the MCF5272UM Rev. 3. MCF5272CVF66 does not support SWD or cJTAG.

Is the MCF5272CVF66 still in active production?

The MCF5272CVF66 is listed by NXP as "Not Recommended for New Designs" (NRND) but remains available through authorized distributors and Aetrix Electronics with committed long-term supply support. NXP continues to manufacture and ship the part under controlled lifecycle management, including obsolescence notifications and last-time-buy options. Design-in is viable for industrial and infrastructure programs requiring 10+ year longevity, backed by Aetrix's BOM continuity services. MCF5272CVF66 status is confirmed in NXP's official product change notifications.