NXP Semiconductors P87C51FB-4N,112

Overview

P87C51FB-4N,112 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is an 8-bit OTP microcontroller based on the enhanced 80C51 architecture, featuring 16 KB on-chip OTP program memory, 256 bytes RAM, programmable PCA (Programmable Counter Array), and full-duplex enhanced UART. It operates at up to 16 MHz across 2.7–5.5 V supply, supporting industrial control, motor drive timing, and embedded instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the P87C51FB-4N,112 datasheet, P87C51FB-4N,112 pinout, P87C51FB-4N,112 application, or P87C51FB-4N,112 equivalent, key selection criteria include OTP memory size, PCA-based PWM/capture capability, dual DPTR support, asynchronous port reset, and low-voltage operation down to 2.7 V with full static functionality.

Technical Context

The P87C51FB-4N,112 implements a fully static 80C51-compatible CPU core with architectural enhancements including a 5-channel PCA for high-resolution capture/compare/PWM generation, second DPTR register for efficient external memory access, and enhanced UART with framing error detection and automatic address recognition. It supports four priority-level nested interrupts and six interrupt sources.

Its power management includes Idle mode (CPU halted, peripherals active), Stop Clock mode (oscillator halted, RAM/SFRs retained), and Power Down mode (oscillator stopped, minimal current draw). The device uses standard TTL-compatible I/O with internal pull-ups on Ports 1, 2, and 3, and open-drain Port 0 for multiplexed address/data bus operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 40-pin Plastic Dual In-line Package (DIP), SOT129-1, lead-free compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with P87C51FA-4N,112, the P87C51FB-4N,112 provides double the OTP capacity for feature-rich firmware without changing layout or drivers; versus P87C51FC-4N,112, it offers optimal balance of memory, cost, and power for mid-complexity industrial controllers.

Availability

P87C51FB-4N,112 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, embedded instrumentation, smart sensor nodes, and legacy industrial interface applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for P87C51FB-4N,112 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 leader delivering high-performance mixed-signal and microcontroller solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.

The P87C51FB-4N,112 belongs to NXP's legacy 80C51-enhanced microcontroller family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, reliability-critical industrial control applications requiring OTP security, low-voltage operation, and proven 8051 ecosystem compatibility.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the P87C51FB-4N,112?

The P87C51FB-4N,112 supports a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz when operated within its specified 2.7–5.5 V supply range. This rating is guaranteed across the full commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and aligns with its SOT129-1 DIP package thermal characteristics. The device maintains full static operation, allowing clock frequency to be reduced to 0 Hz without loss of register or RAM contents.

Does the P87C51FB-4N,112 include on-chip debug or ISP capability?

No, the P87C51FB-4N,112 does not support in-system programming (ISP) or on-chip debug interfaces. It is a one-time-programmable (OTP) device programmed via standard EPROM-style parallel programming using VPP = 12.75 V at the EA/VPP pin. Debugging requires external emulators or ICE tools compatible with the 80C51 architecture, as no on-chip JTAG or UART-based bootloader is integrated into the P87C51FB-4N,112.

How many PCA modules does the P87C51FB-4N,112 provide, and what are their primary uses?

The P87C51FB-4N,112 integrates a 5-channel Programmable Counter Array (PCA), accessible via P1.0–P1.7 pins (T2, T2EX, ECI, CEX0–CEX4). These modules support independent capture, compare, PWM, software timer, and high-speed pulse output functions. In practice, this enables simultaneous motor PWM generation, encoder pulse counting, and time-stamped event logging - all without CPU intervention - making the P87C51FB-4N,112 especially valuable in real-time control applications.

Is the P87C51FB-4N,112 pin-compatible with standard 8051 microcontrollers?

Yes, the P87C51FB-4N,112 is fully pin-compatible with industry-standard 40-pin DIP 8051-family devices such as the 80C31 and 80C51. Its pinout matches the classic 80C51 layout (P0–P3, RST, XTAL1/XTAL2, EA/VPP, ALE/PROG, PSEN), ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility with existing sockets and PCB footprints. All SFR addresses and bit definitions retain 80C51 alignment, enabling seamless firmware migration.

What power-saving modes are supported by the P87C51FB-4N,112?

The P87C51FB-4N,112 supports three hardware power-saving modes: Idle Mode (CPU halted, peripherals active), Stop Clock Mode (oscillator halted, RAM/SFRs retained), and Power Down Mode (oscillator stopped, minimal current draw). These are invoked via the PCON register. In Power Down mode, current consumption drops to ≤10 µA typical at 3 V, with wake-up possible only via hardware reset - making it ideal for battery-backed retention or infrequent-event monitoring applications using the P87C51FB-4N,112.