NXP Semiconductors P87C51FA-4A,512
- Part No.:
- P87C51FA-4A,512
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Datasheet:
-
P87C51FA-4A,512.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 8BIT 8KB OTP 44PLCC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P87C51FA-4A,512 from Philips Semiconductors is an 8-bit OTP microcontroller based on the 80C51 architecture, featuring 8 KB ROM, 256-byte RAM, programmable PCA (Programmable Counter Array), and full-duplex enhanced UART. It operates at up to 16 MHz across 2.7–5.5 V, supports external memory expansion to 64 KB, and targets industrial control, motor drive interfaces, and embedded instrumentation.
For engineers reviewing the P87C51FA-4A,512 datasheet, P87C51FA-4A,512 pinout, P87C51FA-4A,512 application, or P87C51FA-4A,512 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 44-pin PLCC package, PCA-based PWM/capture capability, low-voltage operation, and compatibility with legacy 80C51 toolchains and interrupt structure.
Technical Context
The P87C51FA-4A,512 implements a static CMOS 80C51 core with identical instruction set compatibility and four priority-level nested interrupts. Its PCA module provides five independent capture/compare channels (CEX0–CEX4) supporting PWM generation, high-speed input capture, and software-timed event counting - enabling precise timing control without CPU overhead.
It integrates a second DPTR register, programmable clock-out, asynchronous port reset, and ALE inhibition for low-EMI operation. Unlike base 80C51, it adds security bits (3-bit OTP protection), 64-byte encryption array, and enhanced UART with framing error detection and automatic address recognition for multiprocessor communication.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | 80C51-compatible 8-bit CPU with full static operation and identical instruction set |
| Memory | 8 KB on-chip OTP program memory; 256-byte internal RAM; supports 64 KB external addressing |
| Max Clock Frequency | 16 MHz at 2.7–5.5 V supply - enables deterministic real-time response in control loops |
| PCA Module | 5-channel Programmable Counter Array (CEX0–CEX4) for PWM, capture, compare, and software timer functions |
| UART | Full-duplex enhanced UART with framing error detection and automatic address recognition for multiprocessor mode |
| Power Modes | Idle mode (CPU halted, peripherals active) and Power-down mode (oscillator stopped, RAM retained) |
| Security | 3-bit OTP security lock with 64-byte encryption array to prevent firmware reverse engineering |
Pinout & Package
Package: 44-pin Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC), SOT187-2 footprint, lead-free compatible per Philips specification.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P1.0/T2 | Timer 2 external count input / clock output | Enables hardware timer synchronization or external event counting without CPU polling |
| P1.1/T2EX | Timer 2 reload/capture/direction control | Supports auto-reload, edge-triggered capture, and bidirectional counter control for motor phase tracking |
| P1.2/ECI | External clock input to PCA | Allows PCA to run from independent high-precision source (e.g., crystal or oscillator) for jitter-free timing |
| P1.3–P1.7/CEX0–CEX4 | PCA capture/compare I/O channels | Five dedicated pins for PWM output, input capture, or software-timed events - no port multiplexing conflict |
| P3.0/RxD & P3.1/TxD | Serial data input/output | Hardware UART interface with framing error detection - eliminates need for bit-banged serial logic |
| EA/VPP | External access enable / programming voltage | Configures boot source (internal OTP vs. external memory); accepts 12.75 V during programming |
| XTAL1/XTAL2 | Oscillator input/output | Supports crystal (1–16 MHz), ceramic resonator, or external clock source - no external capacitors required for crystal mode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable PCA with 5 channels | Enables simultaneous PWM generation (e.g., 3-phase motor control), input capture (encoder pulses), and software timers - all hardware-automated |
| Enhanced UART with address recognition | Reduces bus arbitration overhead in multi-node systems by filtering addressed frames before CPU interrupt |
| Second DPTR register | Accelerates block memory transfers between internal RAM and external memory without register save/restore overhead |
| Asynchronous port reset | Allows individual I/O ports to be reset independently of CPU state - critical for safe I/O reinitialization after fault recovery |
| Low-EMI ALE inhibition | Disables ALE pulses during non-memory-access cycles - reduces radiated emissions in noise-sensitive analog environments |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Control | Embedded Instrumentation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop speed/position control of BLDC or stepper motors using encoder feedback and three-phase PWM. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary controller executing PID algorithm, generating synchronized PWM outputs via PCA, and capturing quadrature encoder edges on CEX pins. Use Value: Hardware-accelerated PCA eliminates CPU load during high-frequency PWM updates (up to 16 MHz system clock), ensuring deterministic timing for commutation. | Use Scenario: Portable multimeter or data logger with analog front-end, LCD display, and serial telemetry upload. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System manager handling ADC interface, LCD driver timing, UART telemetry, and low-power sleep/wake scheduling. Use Value: Idle and Power-down modes reduce average current to <100 µA during measurement standby - extending battery life significantly. |
| Multi-node Sensor Network | Legacy Industrial Interface |
Use Scenario: Distributed temperature/humidity sensor nodes communicating over RS-485 bus with master controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Node controller managing sensor acquisition, local processing, and multiprocessor UART communication using address recognition. Use Value: Automatic address recognition in UART avoids software address filtering - reducing interrupt latency and CPU utilization per frame. | Use Scenario: Retrofit controller replacing obsolete 80C51-based PLC I/O modules with minimal PCB redesign. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Pin- and code-compatible upgrade delivering enhanced features (PCA, security, low-voltage operation) without firmware rewrite. Use Value: Full 80C51 instruction set and identical SFR map ensure drop-in replacement while adding OTP security and extended memory addressing. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| P87C51FB-4A,512 | 16 KB OTP ROM (vs. 8 KB); same PCA, UART, and package | Suitable where larger firmware footprint is required (e.g., protocol stacks, calibration tables) | Select when firmware exceeds 8 KB but PCA/peripheral requirements match P87C51FA-4A,512 |
| P87C51RA+-4A,512 | 512-byte RAM (vs. 256-byte); adds hardware watchdog timer; same 8 KB OTP and PCA | Better suited for safety-critical applications requiring periodic reset supervision (e.g., HVAC controllers) | Choose when increased RAM and watchdog functionality justify minor cost premium over P87C51FA-4A,512 |
Compared with P87C51FB-4A,512 and P87C51RA+-4A,512, the P87C51FA-4A,512 offers optimal balance of OTP capacity, PCA capability, and cost for mid-complexity control tasks - retaining full 80C51 compatibility while avoiding unnecessary memory or feature bloat.
Availability
P87C51FA-4A,512 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, embedded instrumentation, and legacy interface replacement requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P87C51FA-4A,512 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
Philips Semiconductors (now NXP Semiconductors) is a global semiconductor innovator founded in the Netherlands, specializing in mixed-signal ICs, microcontrollers, and automotive electronics.
The 8XC51FA family was designed for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial control applications requiring OTP security, low-voltage operation, and enhanced timing peripherals - extending the 80C51 ecosystem with PCA and low-EMI features.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the P87C51FA-4A,512?
The P87C51FA-4A,512 supports a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz when operated within its specified 2.7–5.5 V supply range. This rating is validated across the full commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and applies to both internal oscillator and external clock configurations. The device maintains full static operation - meaning it can be safely paused at any clock speed down to 0 Hz without data loss.
Does the P87C51FA-4A,512 include a hardware watchdog timer?
No, the P87C51FA-4A,512 does not integrate a hardware watchdog timer. That feature is present in the later P87C51RA+/RB+/RC+/RD+ series (e.g., P87C51RA+-4A,512), which adds WDTRST register and dedicated watchdog control. The P87C51FA-4A,512 relies on software-based timeout supervision or external watchdog ICs for system-level fault recovery.
What package type is used for the P87C51FA-4A,512?
The P87C51FA-4A,512 uses a 44-pin Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package, designated SOT187-2 in Philips documentation. It features a square body with J-leads, is RoHS-compliant, and has a standard 1.27 mm pitch. This package supports socket-based prototyping and provides robust thermal and mechanical performance for industrial PCBs.
How much internal RAM does the P87C51FA-4A,512 provide?
The P87C51FA-4A,512 provides 256 bytes of internal RAM, mapped identically to the standard 80C51 architecture. This includes 128 bytes of general-purpose RAM and 128 bytes of bit-addressable special function register (SFR) space. External RAM up to 64 KB can be accessed via MOVX instructions using the 16-bit DPTR register.
Is the P87C51FA-4A,512 pin-compatible with standard 80C51 microcontrollers?
The P87C51FA-4A,512 is functionally and instruction-set compatible with the 80C51, but not fully pin-compatible in all packages. In the 44-pin PLCC (SOT187-2), it repurposes Port 1 pins (P1.0–P1.7) for PCA functions (T2, T2EX, ECI, CEX0–CEX4), unlike base 80C51. However, Port 0, Port 2, Port 3, and control signals (RST, XTAL1/2, EA, PSEN, ALE) retain identical pin locations and behavior - enabling layout reuse with minor Port 1 signal reassignment.
P87C51FA-4A,512 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Series:
- 87C
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- 8051
- Core Size:
- 8-Bit
- Speed:
- 16MHz
- Connectivity:
- EBI/EMI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- POR, PWM
- Number of I/O:
- 32
- Program Memory Size:
- 8KB (8K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- OTP
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 256 x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Data Converters:
- -
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
P87C51FA-4A,512 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P87C51FA-4A,512 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P87C51FA-4A,512 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 P87C51FA-4A,512 reliable?
The price and inventory of P87C51FA-4A,512 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P87C51FA-4A,512 is usually 5 days.
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Once your P87C51FA-4A,512 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 P87C51FA-4A,512?
For technical support, including P87C51FA-4A,512 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P87C51FA-4A,512 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P87C51FA-4A,512 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P87C51FA-4A,512 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 P87C51FA-4A,512 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P87C51FA-4A,512?
All P87C51FA-4A,512 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P87C51FA-4A,512, 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 P87C51FA-4A,512 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P87C51FA-4A,512:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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