NXP Semiconductors SC16C2550IA44,529
- Part No.:
- SC16C2550IA44,529
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Datasheet:
-
SC16C2550IA44,529.pdf
- Description:
- IC UART DUAL W/FIFO 44-PLCC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SC16C2550IA44,529 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is a dual-channel UART IC with 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs, integrated IrDA encoder/decoder, and independent programmable baud rate generators for each channel. It operates at 5 V, 3.3 V, or 2.5 V, supports up to 5 Mbits/s data rates (at 5 V/3.3 V), and targets industrial serial communication in embedded controllers, industrial gateways, and legacy RS-232/RS-485 interface cards.
For engineers reviewing the SC16C2550IA44,529 datasheet, SC16C2550IA44,529 pinout, SC16C2550IA44,529 application, or SC16C2550IA44,529 equivalent, key selection considerations include dual-channel FIFO buffering for CPU bandwidth reduction, hardware/software flow control support, PLCC44 package compatibility with legacy board layouts, and IrDA physical layer integration for short-range wireless serial links.
Technical Context
The SC16C2550IA44,529 implements two fully independent UART channels (A and B), each with dedicated 16-byte FIFOs, separate register sets, and individual chip select (CSA/CSB), interrupt (INTA/INTB), and modem control signals (RTS/CTS/DTR/DSR/RI/CD). Its internal architecture includes a shared 16× clock divider with independently programmable divisor registers (DLL/DLM per channel), enabling asymmetric TX/RX baud rates.
It supports DMA mode via TXRDY/RXRDY active-low status outputs (PLCC44-specific pins), four selectable receive FIFO trigger levels (1/4/8/14 bytes), automatic hardware flow control (via EFR[6:7]), and software Xon/Xoff detection with dual-character matching. The device powers up functionally equivalent to the ST16C2450 but adds FIFOs, IrDA encoding/decoding, and enhanced interrupt prioritization.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channels | Dual independent UARTs (A and B) with separate register banks and control logic. |
| FIFO depth | 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs per channel - reduces CPU interrupt frequency by ~15× vs. non-FIFO UARTs at 115.2 kbps. |
| Max data rate | 5 Mbits/s at 5 V or 3.3 V supply; 3 Mbits/s at 2.5 V - enables high-speed modem and ISDN interface designs. |
| Supply voltage | 2.5 V / 3.3 V / 5 V operation - supports mixed-voltage system integration without level shifters. |
| IrDA support | Integrated IrDA 1.0 encoder/decoder - eliminates external SIR PHY for infrared serial links. |
| Temperature range | Industrial grade: −40 °C to +85 °C - suitable for factory automation and outdoor communications equipment. |
| Baud rate generation | Independent TX/RX programmable divisors (DLL/DLM) - allows asymmetric full-duplex rates (e.g., 921.6 kbps TX / 460.8 kbps RX). |
Pinout & Package
SC16C2550IA44,529 is housed in a 44-lead plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC44, SOT187-2) with J-lead profile and 1.27 mm pitch. The package is lead-free compatible and rated for industrial temperature operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0–A2 | Address select inputs | Select internal register address (0–7) for read/write access to THR/RHR, IER, FCR, LCR, etc. |
| CSA / CSB | Channel-select chip enables | Active-low enables for UART A or B - permits independent CPU access to each channel's register set. |
| D0–D7 | 8-bit bidirectional data bus | 3-state TTL-compatible interface to microcontroller or bus controller; D0 = LSB. |
| TXA / TXB | Transmit data outputs | Asynchronous serial output (logic 1 idle) for channel A or B; supports RS-232/RS-485 drivers. |
| RXA / RXB | Receive data inputs | Asynchronous serial input (logic 1 idle); internally connected to FIFO during loop-back diagnostics. |
| INTA / INTB | Channel-specific interrupt outputs | Active-high, 3-state interrupts triggered by RX/TX status, errors, or modem events per channel. |
| TXRDYA / TXRDYB | Transmit-ready status | Active-low indicates ≥1 empty location in TX FIFO - used for DMA handshaking or polling efficiency. |
| RXRDYA / RXRDYB | Receive-ready status | Active-low indicates ≥1 character available in RX FIFO - enables precise DMA burst timing. |
| RTSA / RTSB, CTSA / CTSB | Modem control I/O | Hardware flow control signals - RTS asserted when RX FIFO reaches trigger level; CTS monitored to pause TX. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | Crystal oscillator interface | Supports 1–80 MHz crystal or external clock; XTAL1 accepts custom clock for non-standard baud rates. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual independent UART channels | Full register isolation (THR/RHR/IER/FCR/LCR/MCR/MSR per channel) enables concurrent serial protocols on one die. |
| 16-byte FIFOs with 4 trigger levels | Reduces CPU servicing interval from ≤100 µs to ≥1.53 ms at 115.2 kbps - freeing processor cycles for application tasks. |
| Programmable Xon/Xoff characters | Configurable 1- or 2-byte software flow control patterns stored in EFR-accessible registers - prevents buffer overruns without hardware mods. |
| Automatic hardware flow control | RTS/CTS handshake managed entirely in silicon via EFR[6:7] - eliminates firmware polling overhead for modem interfaces. |
| Internal loop-back diagnostics | Self-test mode disconnects external pins and routes TX to RX internally - validates UART functionality without external cabling. |
| Sleep mode | Low-power state reducing current draw during idle periods - extends battery life in portable serial adapters. |
Applications
| Industrial Serial Gateway | Legacy RS-232 Interface Card |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Connecting PLCs, HMIs, and sensors via RS-232/485 to an industrial Ethernet backbone. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual UART bridges parallel CPU bus to two independent serial ports; FIFOs absorb burst traffic from field devices. Use Value: 16-byte FIFOs reduce interrupt load by >90% vs. 1-byte-buffer UARTs, enabling deterministic real-time response in multi-device networks. |
Use Scenario: Retrofitting ISA/PCI expansion cards with native dual-serial support for DOS/Windows NT-era industrial PCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Pin-compatible upgrade for ST16C2450-based designs - retains PCB layout while adding FIFO and IrDA. Use Value: Eliminates need for external FIFO buffers or discrete IrDA transceivers, cutting BOM cost and board area by 30%. |
| IrDA Wireless Terminal Adapter | Multi-Protocol Modem Controller |
Use Scenario: Enabling infrared data transfer between handheld terminals and base stations in warehouse logistics systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Integrated IrDA encoder/decoder handles SIR (Serial Infrared) physical layer signaling at up to 115.2 kbps. Use Value: Removes requirement for external IR PHY IC (e.g., TFDS4000), simplifying design and passing FCC/CE radiated emissions testing. |
Use Scenario: Supporting V.34/V.90 modems and ISDN TA devices requiring asymmetric full-duplex data paths. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Independent TX/RX baud rate generators allow simultaneous 460.8 kbps upstream and 921.6 kbps downstream rates. Use Value: Enables single-chip support for data compression protocols (e.g., MNP5, V.42bis) without external clock synthesis. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual UART applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST16C2550 | Pin- and functionally identical; manufactured by STMicroelectronics under license from Philips. | No IrDA encoder/decoder - requires external SIR PHY for infrared operation. | Choose ST16C2550 only if IrDA is unused and second-source availability is required. |
| TL16C752BIPM | TI part with 64-byte FIFOs, 16-MHz max clock, and enhanced auto-flow control; not pin-compatible. | Requires PCB redesign due to 48-pin TQFP package and different pinout (e.g., no RXRDY/TXRDY outputs). | Select TL16C752BIPM only for new designs needing deeper FIFOs and higher clock tolerance - not for drop-in replacement. |
Compared with ST16C2550, SC16C2550IA44,529 provides integrated IrDA PHY and identical pinout, while TL16C752BIPM offers larger FIFOs and higher clock headroom but demands layout changes and firmware adaptation for register mapping differences.
Availability
SC16C2550IA44,529 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial serial gateways, legacy interface cards, IrDA terminal adapters, and multi-protocol modem controllers requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for SC16C2550IA44,529 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. Formerly Philips Semiconductors, it acquired the SC16C2550 family in 2006.
The SC16C2550IA44,529 belongs to NXP's legacy industrial interface portfolio, designed specifically for robust, long-lifecycle serial communication in harsh environments where pin compatibility and firmware stability are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum data rate supported by SC16C2550IA44,529?
The SC16C2550IA44,529 supports up to 5 Mbits/s at 5 V or 3.3 V supply voltage, and 3 Mbits/s at 2.5 V. This is achieved using an 80 MHz internal clock divided by programmable divisors. The actual achievable rate depends on external crystal or clock source stability and signal integrity of the TX/RX lines. SC16C2550IA44,529 maintains full functionality across all three voltage grades without derating.
Does SC16C2550IA44,529 support true pin-to-pin replacement for ST16C2450 designs?
Yes - SC16C2550IA44,529 powers up functionally equivalent to the ST16C2450 and shares identical pinout and register map in basic mode. Legacy ST16C2450 firmware runs unchanged. However, SC16C2550IA44,529 adds 16-byte FIFOs, IrDA, and enhanced registers (EFR, Xon/Xoff), which remain inactive until explicitly enabled via software configuration.
How does the IrDA functionality work in SC16C2550IA44,529?
SC16C2550IA44,529 integrates a complete IrDA 1.0 SIR (Serial Infrared) encoder/decoder. It converts UART serial data into pulse-width-modulated (PWM) 3/16 carrier signals compliant with IrDA physical layer spec, and decodes incoming IR pulses back to serial frames. No external IR transceiver is needed - only an IR LED and photodiode with driver circuitry are required on the board.
What are the key differences between SC16C2550IA44,529 and SC16C2550IB48?
SC16C2550IA44,529 uses a PLCC44 package (SOT187-2) with J-leads, while SC16C2550IB48 uses a 48-pin LQFP (SOT313-2). Both share identical electrical specs and register behavior, but differ in pin count and layout: SC16C2550IB48 adds two N.C. pins and relocates RXRDY/TXRDY signals. SC16C2550IA44,529 is optimized for through-hole or surface-mount retrofits of DIP40/PLCC44 footprints.
Can SC16C2550IA44,529 operate with a 1.8432 MHz crystal?
Yes - SC16C2550IA44,529 supports standard 1.8432 MHz crystals for legacy baud rates (e.g., 115.2 kbps, 57.6 kbps). When using this crystal, the internal 16× clock becomes 29.4912 MHz, and the DLL/DLM registers are programmed to divide accordingly. The device also accepts external clocks up to 80 MHz for custom or high-speed rates, making SC16C2550IA44,529 flexible across legacy and modern timing requirements.
SC16C2550IA44,529 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- 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:
- Yes
- With False Start Bit Detection:
- Yes
- With Modem Control:
- Yes
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 44-PLCC (16.59x16.59)
SC16C2550IA44,529 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SC16C2550IA44,529 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SC16C2550IA44,529 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 SC16C2550IA44,529 reliable?
The price and inventory of SC16C2550IA44,529 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SC16C2550IA44,529 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SC16C2550IA44,529?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SC16C2550IA44,529 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SC16C2550IA44,529?
SC16C2550IA44,529 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SC16C2550IA44,529 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 SC16C2550IA44,529?
For technical support, including SC16C2550IA44,529 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SC16C2550IA44,529 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SC16C2550IA44,529 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SC16C2550IA44,529 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 SC16C2550IA44,529 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SC16C2550IA44,529?
All SC16C2550IA44,529 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SC16C2550IA44,529, 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 SC16C2550IA44,529 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SC16C2550IA44,529:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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