NXP Semiconductors SC16C2550BIA44,518
- Part No.:
- SC16C2550BIA44,518
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Datasheet:
-
SC16C2550BIA44,518.pdf
- Description:
- IC UART DUAL W/FIFO 44-PLCC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SC16C2550BIA44,518 from NXP Semiconductors is a dual-channel 5 V / 3.3 V / 2.5 V UART IC supporting up to 5 Mbit/s data rate, featuring independent 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs, programmable baud rate generators, and full modem control (CTS/RTS/DSR/DTR/RI/CD) for industrial serial communication systems in embedded controllers and industrial gateways.
For engineers reviewing the SC16C2550BIA44,518 datasheet, SC16C2550BIA44,518 pinout, SC16C2550BIA44,518 application, or SC16C2550BIA44,518 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, PLCC44 package mapping, UART channel A/B register access logic, DMA-ready TXRDY/RXRDY signaling, and real-world integration constraints for high-throughput serial interface design.
Technical Context
The SC16C2550BIA44,518 implements two independent UART channels with separate address decoding (A0–A2), chip select pins CSA/CSB, and dedicated interrupt outputs INTA/INTB-enabling concurrent asynchronous serial communication over RXA/TXA and RXB/TXB with full software-selectable character formatting (5–8 bit, 1/1.5/2 stop bits, parity options). Each channel supports false start-bit detection, line break generation/detection, and prioritized interrupt handling via IER/ISR registers.
Its dual FIFO architecture uses FCR-controlled trigger levels (1/4/8/14 bytes) and integrates DMA-mode signaling via TXRDYA/TXRDYB and RXRDYA/RXRDYB outputs-available only on PLCC44 and LQFP48 packages-to reduce CPU servicing overhead; internal loopback mode (MCR[4]=1) isolates TX/RX path faults without external wiring, while the 80 MHz-capable baud rate generator supports custom rates via DLL/DLM divisor programming.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rate | Up to 5 Mbit/s at 5 V/3.3 V; 3 Mbit/s at 2.5 V - enables high-speed modem and network interface connectivity |
| FIFO Depth | 16-byte TX + 16-byte RX per channel - reduces CPU interrupt frequency by >15× vs. legacy 1-byte buffers |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V / 3.3 V / 5 V operation - supports mixed-voltage system integration without level shifters |
| Interrupt Architecture | Independent INTA/INTB with prioritized ISR - allows simultaneous channel servicing without masking |
| Baud Rate Control | Software-programmable DLL/DLM registers - supports standard (e.g., 115.2 kbit/s) and custom rates via 16× clock division |
| Modem Interface | Full RTS/CTS/DSR/DTR/RI/CD support - enables hardware flow control and status monitoring in telecom applications |
| Operating Temperature | Industrial range (−40 °C to +85 °C) - qualified for factory automation and outdoor communications equipment |
Pinout & Package
SC16C2550BIA44,518 is housed in a 44-lead plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC44, SOT187-2) with gull-wing leads, 1.27 mm pitch, and 16.6 mm × 16.6 mm body size - compatible with standard PLCC sockets and reflow soldering profiles.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0–A2 | Register address select | Decode internal register access (THR/RHR/IER/FCR/etc.) for UART A or B via 3-bit addressing |
| CSA / CSB | Channel-select chip enable | Active-low enables UART A or B independently - permits shared data bus with discrete channel arbitration |
| D0–D7 | Bidirectional data bus | 8-bit 3-state TTL interface for register read/write - compatible with 8080/8051-style microcontroller buses |
| TXA / TXB | Serial transmit output | CMOS-level asynchronous serial output per channel - requires external line driver for RS-232/RS-485 |
| RXA / RXB | Serial receive input | 5 V-tolerant input (on D0–D7 only; RX pins not 5 V tolerant) - accepts TTL/CMOS logic levels directly |
| INTA / INTB | Channel-specific interrupt | Open-drain or 3-state output - asserts when FIFO threshold, error, or modem status triggers interrupt condition |
| TXRDYA / TXRDYB | FIFO transmit ready | Active-low DMA handshake - signals TX FIFO has ≥1 empty slot; available only on PLCC44/LQFP48 packages |
| RXRDYA / RXRDYB | FIFO receive ready | Active-low DMA handshake - signals RX FIFO contains ≥1 byte above trigger level; PLCC44/LQFP48 only |
| RTSA / RTSB | Request-to-send output | Modem control signal - driven low by MCR[1] to indicate data readiness; no effect on UART core operation |
| CTSA / CTSB | Clear-to-send input | Hardware flow control input - logic 0 enables transmission; status readable via MSR[4] |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Independent TX/RX FIFO control | Separate 16-byte buffers per channel eliminate cross-channel interference and enable asymmetric buffer sizing in software |
| Four RX FIFO trigger levels | Selectable 1/4/8/14-byte thresholds optimize interrupt latency vs. CPU load trade-off in multi-channel systems |
| Internal loopback diagnostics | On-chip TX-to-RX path isolation verifies UART functional integrity without external cabling or test fixtures |
| Programmable character format | Runtime selection of 5–8 bit words, 1/1.5/2 stop bits, even/odd/no parity - supports legacy and proprietary protocols |
| 3-state data bus drivers | Enables direct connection to shared microcontroller data buses without external bus transceivers |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Serial Gateway | Medical Device Data Logger |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Aggregating Modbus RTU data from multiple field sensors into a central controller via isolated RS-485 links. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual UART handles concurrent sensor polling (Channel A) and HMI command relay (Channel B) with hardware flow control. Use Value: 16-byte FIFOs reduce interrupt servicing time by 93% vs. 16C2450, enabling deterministic response under 10 ms cycle times. | Use Scenario: Capturing ECG waveform timestamps and patient ID strings from analog front-end ICs before SD card storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: UART Channel A receives high-resolution ADC data packets; Channel B manages USB-to-serial bridge configuration. Use Value: Independent baud rate generators allow 1 Mbps sensor stream and 115.2 kbps debug port simultaneously without clock domain conflict. |
| Telecom Base Station OAM | Automotive Diagnostic Interface |
Use Scenario: Providing out-of-band management console access and firmware update channel for LTE small cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SC16C2550BIA44,518 acts as primary serial interface between ARM host and modem baseband processor. Use Value: Internal loopback mode validates UART functionality during power-on self-test, meeting IEC 62443-3-3 diagnostic coverage requirements. | Use Scenario: Translating UDS (ISO 14229) diagnostic requests between vehicle CAN bus and technician laptop via USB-to-serial adapter. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: UART Channel A interfaces with USB-UART bridge IC; Channel B connects to microcontroller debug header. Use Value: 2.5 V/3.3 V compatibility eliminates level-shifting components in low-power automotive domains. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual UART applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SC16C2550BIB48 | LQFP48 package (7×7 mm); includes n.c. pins and different pinout - no RXRDY/TXRDY on HVQFN32/DIP40 variants | Preferred for space-constrained PCBs requiring fine-pitch surface-mount assembly | Select SC16C2550BIB48 when board layout demands smaller footprint and thermal pad grounding is required |
| ST16C2550 | PIN-compatible but lacks 2.5 V operation and has no internal loopback mode - older silicon revision with reduced FIFO reliability | Suitable only for legacy 5 V-only designs where diagnostic self-test is not mandated | Choose ST16C2550 only for cost-sensitive replacements in existing 5 V systems without industrial temp or loopback needs |
Compared with SC16C2550BIA44,518, the SC16C2550BIB48 offers identical functionality in a smaller LQFP package but requires PCB redesign; the ST16C2550 provides mechanical drop-in replacement in 5 V systems but omits 2.5 V support, loopback diagnostics, and industrial temperature qualification.
Availability
SC16C2550BIA44,518 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC serial gateways, medical device data loggers, telecom OAM interfaces, and automotive diagnostic tools requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for SC16C2550BIA44,518 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 focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in interface, power management, and MCU technologies.
The SC16C2550B product line delivers high-reliability dual UARTs for mission-critical serial infrastructure - designed specifically for industrial automation, telecom infrastructure, and medical electronics where deterministic timing, FIFO efficiency, and diagnostic robustness are mandatory.
FAQ
What voltage levels does SC16C2550BIA44,518 support for reliable operation?
SC16C2550BIA44,518 operates across three supply rails: 2.5 V ±10 %, 3.3 V ±10 %, and 5 V ±10 %, with full specification compliance including 5 Mbit/s data rate at 5 V/3.3 V and 3 Mbit/s at 2.5 V. Input pins D0–D7 are 5 V tolerant, but RXA/RXB inputs are not - external level shifting is required for 5 V serial signals when using 2.5 V or 3.3 V VCC.
How does the FIFO architecture in SC16C2550BIA44,518 reduce CPU overhead compared to legacy UARTs?
SC16C2550BIA44,518 features independent 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs per channel, extending service intervals from <100 µs (e.g., ST16C2450 at 115.2 kbit/s) to 1.53 ms - reducing interrupt frequency by 15×. Combined with four selectable RX trigger levels and TXRDY/RXRDY DMA handshaking, it cuts CPU bandwidth demand by >70 % in multi-channel embedded systems.
Can SC16C2550BIA44,518 be used in loopback mode for production-level diagnostics?
Yes, SC16C2550BIA44,518 supports internal loopback mode (enabled via MCR[4]) that disconnects external RX/TX pins and routes TX output directly to RX input internally. This allows full functional validation of the UART's serial encoding/decoding, FIFO buffering, and interrupt generation - all without external cabling - making it suitable for automated production test and field-deployed health monitoring.
What are the key differences between SC16C2550BIA44,518 and the ST16C2550 in terms of modem control capability?
SC16C2550BIA44,518 retains full ST16C2550 pin and function compatibility but adds enhanced modem control features: OP2A/OP2B user-defined outputs, richer MSR/MSR register bit definitions, and guaranteed 2.5 V operation with industrial temperature range. The ST16C2550 lacks internal loopback and has no 2.5 V rating, limiting its use in modern low-voltage designs.
Which package-specific signals are available on SC16C2550BIA44,518 that differ from other SC16C2550B variants?
SC16C2550BIA44,518 (PLCC44) provides RXRDYA/RXRDYB and TXRDYA/TXRDYB active-low DMA handshake signals - present only on PLCC44 and LQFP48 packages, absent in HVQFN32 and DIP40 variants. These pins enable efficient block-mode data transfers without CPU polling, critical for high-throughput industrial serial gateways.
SC16C2550BIA44,518 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Features:
- -
- Number of Channels:
- 2, DUART
- FIFO's:
- 16 Byte
- Protocol:
- -
- Data Rate (Max):
- 5Mbps
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V, 3.3V, 5V
- With Auto Flow Control:
- Yes
- With IrDA Encoder/Decoder:
- -
- With False Start Bit Detection:
- Yes
- With Modem Control:
- Yes
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 44-PLCC (16.59x16.59)
SC16C2550BIA44,518 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SC16C2550BIA44,518 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SC16C2550BIA44,518 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 SC16C2550BIA44,518 reliable?
The price and inventory of SC16C2550BIA44,518 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SC16C2550BIA44,518 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SC16C2550BIA44,518?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SC16C2550BIA44,518 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SC16C2550BIA44,518?
SC16C2550BIA44,518 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SC16C2550BIA44,518 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 SC16C2550BIA44,518?
For technical support, including SC16C2550BIA44,518 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SC16C2550BIA44,518 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SC16C2550BIA44,518 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SC16C2550BIA44,518 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 SC16C2550BIA44,518 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SC16C2550BIA44,518?
All SC16C2550BIA44,518 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SC16C2550BIA44,518, 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 SC16C2550BIA44,518 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SC16C2550BIA44,518:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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