NXP Semiconductors P87C51RA2FA,512

Overview

P87C51RA2FA,512 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is an 8-bit OTP microcontroller based on the 80C51 architecture, featuring 8 KB on-chip OTP program memory, 512-byte RAM, four 8-bit I/O ports, three 16-bit timers (T0/T1/T2), a full-duplex enhanced UART with framing error detection and automatic address recognition, and a programmable counter array (PCA) supporting PWM, capture, and compare functions. It operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V and supports both 6-clock and 12-clock modes for up to 30 MHz (6-clock) or 33 MHz (12-clock) operation at 5 V - ideal for motor control and industrial embedded systems requiring precise timing and pulse-width modulation.

For engineers reviewing the P87C51RA2FA,512 datasheet, P87C51RA2FA,512 pinout, P87C51RA2FA,512 application, or P87C51RA2FA,512 equivalent, key selection considerations include its PLCC-44 package with 32 I/O pins, dual data pointers, security bits, encryption array, low-power idle and power-down modes, and compatibility with standard 80C51 development tools and instruction set.

Technical Context

The P87C51RA2FA,512 implements an accelerated 80C51 CPU core with selectable 6-clock/12-clock execution mode controlled via OTP bit OX2 or SFR bit X2 in CKCON, enabling performance up to twice that of legacy 80C51 devices. Its PCA module provides five independent capture/compare channels (CEX0–CEX4) and PWM output capability, while Timer 2 supports clock-out generation and baud-rate control.

It integrates a full-duplex enhanced UART with hardware framing error detection and automatic address recognition, and supports asynchronous port reset, programmable clock-out on P1.0, and wake-up from Power Down via external interrupts INT0/INT1. The device uses static CMOS design for fully static operation and low EMI through ALE inhibition and slew-rate-controlled outputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PLCC-44 (SOT187-2), leaded chip carrier with 44 pins, rated for –40 °C to +85 °C industrial temperature range and 2.7–5.5 V supply.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT89C51RD2-RL and P89C51RD2FA, the P87C51RA2FA,512 delivers optimal balance of OTP security, industrial temperature tolerance, wide supply range, and proven reliability in fixed-function embedded roles - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, field-deployed motor and power control systems where firmware immutability is critical.

Availability

P87C51RA2FA,512 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control systems, industrial PLC I/O modules, embedded power supplies, and legacy equipment upgrades requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for P87C51RA2FA,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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader delivering high-performance mixed-signal and microcontroller solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.

The P87C51RA2FA,512 belongs to NXP's legacy 80C51 OTP microcontroller product line, designed specifically for cost-effective, high-reliability embedded control in industrial automation, motor drives, and power electronics where firmware integrity and long-term supply stability are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the P87C51RA2FA,512 at 5 V?

The P87C51RA2FA,512 supports up to 30 MHz in 6-clock mode and 33 MHz in 12-clock mode when operated at VCC = 5 V. These frequencies are specified in the Philips Semiconductor product data sheet dated 2003 Jan 24 and validated for the PLCC-44 package variant P87C51RA2FA. The actual achievable frequency depends on the selected clock mode, which is configured via OTP bit OX2 or SFR bit X2 in CKCON.

Does the P87C51RA2FA,512 support in-circuit debugging?

Yes, the P87C51RA2FA,512 supports ONCE ("On-Circuit Emulation") Mode, activated by pulling ALE low during reset while holding PSEN high. In this mode, Port 0 floats and other ports are weakly pulled high, allowing external emulators to drive the bus. This capability is documented in the official product data sheet and enables hardware-level debugging without removing the P87C51RA2FA,512 from the target board.

How many capture/compare channels does the PCA in the P87C51RA2FA,512 provide?

The P87C51RA2FA,512 includes a Programmable Counter Array (PCA) with five independent capture/compare modules, accessible via pins CEX0 through CEX4 on Port 1. Each channel supports PWM generation, edge-triggered capture, or software-timed compare operations - confirmed in the "FEATURES" section and PIN DESCRIPTIONS table of the Philips product data sheet.

What package type and temperature grade is the P87C51RA2FA,512 supplied in?

The P87C51RA2FA,512 is supplied in a PLCC-44 package (SOT187-2) rated for industrial temperature operation from –40 °C to +85 °C. This is explicitly stated in the ORDERING INFORMATION table of the Philips product data sheet, where "FA" suffix denotes the extended temperature grade and PLCC packaging.

Can the P87C51RA2FA,512 operate from a 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the P87C51RA2FA,512 supports operation from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, including standard 3.3 V logic systems. The datasheet specifies "low voltage (2.7 to 5.5 V)" operation and confirms functionality at 16 MHz with VCC = 3.3 V. This makes the P87C51RA2FA,512 compatible with mixed-voltage designs and battery-powered applications where regulated 3.3 V rails are used.