NXP Semiconductors MPC8248CZQPIEA

Overview

MPC8248CZQPIEA from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a PowerQUICC II integrated communications processor combining a 32-bit Power Architecture G2_LE core (up to 400 MHz), dual Fast Communication Controllers (FCCs) for 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, three Serial Communication Controllers (SCCs), PCI bridge (32-bit, 66 MHz), and an integrated Security Engine (SEC) supporting AES, DES, 3DES, SHA-1, MD-5, and RSA acceleration. It targets secure network edge devices such as industrial gateways and telecom access nodes.

For engineers reviewing the MPC8248CZQPIEA datasheet, MPC8248CZQPIEA pinout, MPC8248CZQPIEA application, or MPC8248CZQPIEA equivalent, key selection criteria include SEC hardware acceleration support, dual FCC Ethernet capability, 516-pin PBGA (ZQ) package compatibility, and separation of 1.5 V core / 3.3 V I/O supply domains.

Technical Context

The MPC8248CZQPIEA implements a dual-issue G2_LE core with separate 16 KB instruction and 16 KB data caches, MMU, and FPU, operating at up to 400 MHz via programmable PLL multipliers (2:1 to 8:1 for core, 2:1 to 8:1 for CPM). Its Communications Processor Module (CPM) runs independently at configurable frequencies and manages SCCs, SMCs, SPI, I²C, and TDM interfaces using embedded RISC microcontroller firmware.

Hardware security is delivered by the integrated Security Engine (SEC), which offloads cryptographic operations including AES-128/256, DES/3DES, SHA-1/MD-5, and RSA key generation. The device supports UTOPIA II (MPC8248 only), two MII/RMII Ethernet ports, USB 2.0 host/slave, and a 64-bit 60x bus interfacing to SRAM, SDRAM, Flash, and PCI peripherals.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 516-ball PBGA (ZQ), lead-sphere termination, 1.0 mm ball pitch, 27 mm × 27 mm body size, JEDEC MO-205AC compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPC8247CZQPIEA and MPC8272CZQPIEA, the MPC8248CZQPIEA uniquely balances hardware crypto acceleration with dual Ethernet and PCI connectivity-making it optimal for secure edge routing where SEC is mandatory but UTOPIA II is not.

Availability

MPC8248CZQPIEA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial gateways, secure remote access appliances, and telecom access node controllers requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MPC8248CZQPIEA 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and networking applications.

The MPC8248CZQPIEA belongs to the PowerQUICC II family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, power-efficient communications processors in edge networking and industrial control systems requiring integrated security and multi-protocol support.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MPC8248CZQPIEA core?

The MPC8248CZQPIEA core operates at up to 400 MHz, achieved using an internal PLL with selectable multiplication ratios (2:1 to 8:1) applied to a 50 MHz CLKIN reference. This frequency is validated under recommended operating conditions (VDD = 1.425–1.575 V, TA = 0–70°C) and supported by thermal design using the ZQ package's RθJA = 19°C/W on a four-layer board.

Does the MPC8248CZQPIEA include hardware encryption acceleration?

Yes, the MPC8248CZQPIEA integrates a dedicated Security Engine (SEC) that accelerates AES-128/256, DES/3DES, SHA-1, MD-5, RC-4, and RSA operations in hardware. This enables full IPsec tunnel establishment and packet processing at line rate without consuming G2_LE core cycles, as confirmed in the MPC8272EC Rev. 3 specification.

What package type does the MPC8248CZQPIEA use?

The MPC8248CZQPIEA uses a 516-ball PBGA package with lead-sphere termination (ZQ code), measuring 27 mm × 27 mm with 1.0 mm ball pitch. It is RoHS-compliant and specified for junction temperatures up to 105°C, with thermal resistance RθJA = 19°C/W on a four-layer PCB under natural convection.

How many Ethernet interfaces does the MPC8248CZQPIEA support?

The MPC8248CZQPIEA supports two independent 10/100 Mbps Fast Communication Controllers (FCCs), each configurable for MII or RMII interface modes. Both FCCs are fully functional and can operate concurrently, enabling dual-port routing, bridging, or protocol gateway applications without external PHY arbitration logic.

Is the MPC8248CZQPIEA pin-compatible with other PowerQUICC II devices?

The MPC8248CZQPIEA shares the same 516-ball ZQ PBGA footprint and pin assignment with MPC8272CZQPIEA, MPC8247CZQPIEA, and MPC8271CZQPIEA per Table 2 of the MPC8272EC specification. However, functional differences exist-such as SEC presence (MPC8248/MPC8272 only) and UTOPIA II support (MPC8272/MPC8271 only)-requiring firmware and schematic validation for substitution.