NXP Semiconductors MCHC908GR8CFAE

Overview

MCHC908GR8CFAE from Freescale Semiconductor (formerly Motorola) is an 8-bit HCS08-core microcontroller with 8 KB on-chip flash memory, 512 bytes RAM, and integrated peripherals including ADC, SCI, SPI, TIM, and KBI. It operates at up to 8 MHz bus frequency, supports 3.0 V and 5.0 V supply, and targets embedded control in industrial sensors and appliance motor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MCHC908GR8CFAE datasheet, MCHC908GR8CFAE pinout, MCHC908GR8CFAE application, or MCHC908GR8CFAE equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package mapping, functional specifications, and real-world use cases aligned with Rev. 4.0 official documentation.

Technical Context

The MCHC908GR8CFAE implements the HCS08 CPU core with 16-bit address space, Harvard architecture for instruction/data separation, and a 16-level hardware stack. Its System Integration Module (SIM) provides clock generation, reset control, and interrupt vector management.

It integrates a 10-bit, 8-channel ADC with programmable conversion time, dual 16-bit timer modules (TIM1/TIM2) supporting input capture/output compare/PWM, and a full-duplex asynchronous SCI with selectable baud rates. All peripherals are memory-mapped and controlled via dedicated I/O registers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

This device is packaged in a 28-pin SOIC (Case #751F), measuring 17.9 mm × 7.5 mm with 1.27 mm pitch. The package supports surface-mount assembly and thermal dissipation suitable for industrial ambient temperatures.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit microcontroller applications.

Compared with MC9S08GB60A and STM8S003F3P6, the MCHC908GR8CFAE offers optimal balance of legacy toolchain support, compact SOIC-28 footprint, and integrated KBI-making it ideal for space-constrained, low-power human-interface applications where CAN or LIN are unnecessary.

Availability

MCHC908GR8CFAE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, home appliance motor controllers, smart power outlets, and POS peripheral interfaces requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle production programs.

Supply support for MCHC908GR8CFAE 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

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors) is a global semiconductor company specializing in embedded processing, analog, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MCHC908GR8CFAE belongs to the HCS08 microcontroller family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded control applications requiring high integration, robust flash reliability, and field-upgradability via on-chip monitor ROM.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MCHC908GR8CFAE?

The MCHC908GR8CFAE supports a maximum bus frequency of 8 MHz, achieved using an external crystal (up to 8 MHz) or ceramic resonator with the on-chip clock generator module. Internal PLL is not present; frequency scaling is limited to division ratios defined in the CGM register set per Rev. 4.0 datasheet Section 7.

Does the MCHC908GR8CFAE support in-system programming?

Yes, the MCHC908GR8CFAE supports in-system programming via its 2 KB on-chip Monitor ROM. Using the SCI interface and standard monitor commands (e.g., READ, WRITE, RUN), firmware can be updated without removing the device from the board - confirmed in Section 15 of the Rev. 4.0 technical data manual.

What low-power modes does the MCHC908GR8CFAE offer?

The MCHC908GR8CFAE provides two hardware-supported low-power modes: Wait mode (CPU halted, peripherals active, ~50 µA typical at 3.0 V) and Stop mode (all clocks stopped except LVI, ~10 µA typical). Both modes support wake-up via IRQ, KBI, or reset, as detailed in Section 3 of the Rev. 4.0 datasheet.

Is the MCHC908GR8CFAE pin-compatible with the MC68HC908GR4?

No - the MCHC908GR8CFAE (28-pin SOIC) and MC68HC908GR4 (20-pin SOIC) differ in pin count, package, and peripheral mapping. While both share the HCS08 core and similar register layout, GR4 omits TIM2, one ADC channel, and several Port A alternate functions. Direct substitution requires PCB and firmware revision.

How is flash memory protected against accidental overwrite on the MCHC908GR8CFAE?

Flash protection on the MCHC908GR8CFAE is implemented via a programmable security byte and block protection bits in the CONFIG register. Once secured, flash cannot be read or reprogrammed without a mass erase - which also clears all user code. This mechanism is documented in Sections 8 and 11.8 of the Rev. 4.0 datasheet.