NXP Semiconductors SC16C550BIB48,128
- Part No.:
- SC16C550BIB48,128
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 48-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
SC16C550BIB48,128.pdf
- Description:
- IC UART SINGLE W/FIFO 48-LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SC16C550BIB48 from NXP Semiconductors is a 5 V / 3.3 V / 2.5 V universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) with 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs, supporting up to 3 Mbit/s data rates at 5 V, programmable baud generation, and hardware flow control (auto-RTS/auto-CTS). It serves as a serial interface bridge between microcontrollers and modems or legacy peripherals in industrial communication systems.
For engineers reviewing the SC16C550BIB48 datasheet, SC16C550BIB48 pinout, SC16C550BIB48 application, or SC16C550BIB48 equivalent, key selection considerations include LQFP48 package compatibility, 48-pin register-mapped parallel bus interface (A0–A2, D0–D7, IOR/IOW, CS0–CS2), FIFO-triggered interrupt support, and absence of TXRDY/RXRDY signals in HVQFN32 - confirmed present in this LQFP48 variant.
Technical Context
The SC16C550BIB48 implements a register-compatible 16C450 architecture with enhanced FIFO buffering and dual-mode DMA signaling (TXRDY/RXRDY). Its internal baud rate generator accepts up to 48 MHz input clock and divides by 16× to derive transmitter/receiver timing, with BAUDOUT output providing exact 16× selected baud rate for external synchronization.
It supports full modem control (CTS, RTS, DTR, DSR, DCD, RI), independent interrupt enable/disable per function (line status, receive data, transmit empty, modem status), and four programmable receive FIFO trigger levels (1/4/8/14 bytes) to optimize CPU bandwidth in multi-channel embedded systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V ±10 % - enables direct integration into mixed-voltage industrial control boards without level-shifting. |
| Max Data Rate | 3 Mbit/s at 5 V (with 48 MHz clock) - supports high-speed modem and ISDN interfaces requiring >1 Mbit/s sustained throughput. |
| FIFO Depth | 16-byte TX + 16-byte RX FIFO with error flags - reduces CPU interrupt load by ~8× vs. 1-byte 16C450, critical for real-time RTOS applications. |
| Baud Generation | Programmable divisor (1–65535) with 16× clock multiplier - achieves standard (e.g., 115.2 kbit/s) and custom rates (e.g., 460.8 kbit/s) from single crystal source. |
| Interrupt Control | Four independent interrupt sources (TX empty, RX ready, line error, modem status) with priority encoding - allows deterministic response timing in safety-critical firmware. |
| Flow Control | Hardware auto-RTS (RX FIFO threshold-driven) and auto-CTS (TX gating) - eliminates receive overrun without software polling in point-to-point links. |
| Operating Temp | −40 °C to +85 °C - qualified for industrial automation, factory HMIs, and outdoor telecom equipment. |
Pinout & Package
LQFP48 package (SOT313-2), 7 mm × 7 mm × 1.4 mm body, 0.5 mm lead pitch, exposed thermal pad (VSS-connected), lead-free and RoHS compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| D0–D7 | Data Bus I/O | 8-bit bidirectional parallel interface to CPU or FPGA; 3-state TTL drive enables shared bus operation. |
| A0–A2 | Register Address Select | Selects among 8 internal registers (THR/RHR, IER/ISR, FCR, LCR, MCR, LSR, MSR, SPR) per Table 3. |
| IOR / IOW | Read/Write Strobe | Active-low (IOR) or active-high (IOW) control signals - only one required per transfer; other tied inactive. |
| CS0–CS2 | Chip Select Inputs | 3-input decode enables UART when CS0=HIGH, CS1=HIGH, CS2=LOW - supports multi-device memory-mapped addressing. |
| TX / RX | Serial I/O | Asynchronous TTL-level UART channel; RX includes false start-bit detection and framing error reporting. |
| RTS / CTS | Hardware Flow Control | RTS output de-asserts when RX FIFO reaches programmed trigger level; CTS input gates TX transmission. |
| INT | Interrupt Output | Open-drain HIGH-active signal indicating pending interrupt; polarity and masking controlled via IER register. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | Crystal Oscillator Interface | Supports 1.8432 MHz–48 MHz crystal or external clock on XTAL1; XTAL2 is output/inverted input in crystal mode. |
| TXRDY / RXRDY | DMA Ready Signals | Active-low outputs for DMA controller handshaking; functional in LQFP48 (not HVQFN32) - enables zero-CPU-load burst transfers. |
| VDD / VSS | Power Supply | VDD = 2.5/3.3/5 V; VSS = ground; dual VSS pins (pins 18, 20) reduce noise coupling in high-speed operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 16-byte TX/RX FIFOs | Reduces interrupt frequency by factor of 16 vs. 16C450, lowering CPU utilization in multi-UART systems. |
| Auto-RTS with 4 trigger levels | Enables dynamic flow control where RTS de-assertion occurs at RX FIFO occupancy of 1/4/8/14 bytes - prevents buffer overflow without host intervention. |
| Independent TX/RX baud control | Single baud generator drives both channels, but TX/RX can operate at different rates via separate divisor latches - supports asymmetric protocols. |
| False start-bit detection | Rejects spurious noise pulses mimicking valid start bits, improving reliability in electrically noisy industrial environments. |
| Internal loopback mode | Allows full self-test of transmitter/receiver path and register logic without external cabling - accelerates board-level diagnostics. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Serial Gateway | Legacy Equipment Adapter |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Connecting modern ARM-based PLC controllers to RS-232/RS-485 field devices using discrete level shifters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: UART interface IC translating parallel bus transactions (D0–D7, A0–A2) into asynchronous serial frames with precise 16× oversampling. Use Value: 16-byte FIFOs absorb burst traffic from motion controllers; auto-RTS prevents overrun during servo command bursts. |
Use Scenario: Retrofitting CNC machines with Ethernet-to-serial bridges using microcontroller-based protocol converters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Register-compatible 16C450 replacement enabling drop-in software reuse while adding FIFO buffering and DMA-ready signaling. Use Value: TXRDY/RXRDY signals enable zero-wait-state DMA transfers to/from SPI/Ethernet MAC buffers, eliminating CPU bottlenecks. |
| Modem Communication Module | Multi-Channel Telemetry Hub |
|
Use Scenario: Integrating 33.6 kbit/s V.34 modems into embedded gateways for remote SCADA telemetry. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed UART with 48 MHz clock support and programmable baud divisors meeting ITU-T V.110 timing requirements. Use Value: Supports 460.8 kbit/s input rate for ISDN modems via custom divisor; BAUDOUT provides clean 16× clock for external line drivers. |
Use Scenario: Aggregating sensor data from 4x RS-485 nodes onto a single ARM Cortex-M7 processor via time-sliced UART polling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: One of multiple SC16C550BIB48 instances sharing address space via CS0–CS2 decoding in a compact LQFP48 footprint. Use Value: Four selectable RX FIFO trigger levels allow tuning interrupt latency per channel - e.g., 1-byte for alarm inputs, 14-byte for bulk log uploads. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar UART interface applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TL16C550CPM | Same 48-pin LQFP package, identical pinout and register map; rated for commercial temp (0 °C to 70 °C) only. | Not suitable for extended industrial environments; lacks −40 °C to +85 °C qualification. | Select TL16C550CPM only for cost-sensitive consumer or lab-grade designs where ambient temperature remains stable. |
| ST16C550CQ48 | Pin-compatible LQFP48 variant; supports same 3 V/5 V operation but omits TXRDY/RXRDY signals entirely (no DMA mode). | Requires software-managed flow control instead of hardware DMA handshaking - increases CPU overhead in high-throughput links. | Choose ST16C550CQ48 if DMA signaling is unnecessary and legacy ST design reuse is prioritized over performance headroom. |
Compared with TL16C550CPM and ST16C550CQ48, the SC16C550BIB48 uniquely delivers industrial temperature range, full TXRDY/RXRDY support in LQFP48, and verified interoperability with existing 16C450 software stacks - making it optimal for ruggedized, high-reliability serial infrastructure.
Availability
SC16C550BIB48 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC gateways, legacy equipment adapters, modem communication modules, and multi-channel telemetry hubs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for SC16C550BIB48 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 RF technologies.
The SC16C550BIB48 belongs to NXP's legacy UART product line designed specifically for robust, register-compatible serial communication in industrial control and telecom infrastructure - emphasizing long-term availability, wide voltage operation, and hardware-assisted flow control.
FAQ
What voltage levels does the SC16C550BIB48 support, and how does that affect system design?
The SC16C550BIB48 operates at 2.5 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V ±10 %, allowing direct integration into mixed-voltage industrial boards without external level shifters. Its 5 V-tolerant inputs (D7–D0) simplify interfacing with legacy 5 V microcontrollers, while the 2.5 V mode supports low-power edge nodes. This flexibility reduces BOM count and layout complexity in heterogeneous systems where SC16C550BIB48 serves as the serial interface backbone.
Does the SC16C550BIB48 support hardware flow control, and how is it implemented?
Yes, the SC16C550BIB48 supports full hardware flow control via auto-RTS and auto-CTS. Auto-RTS asserts RTS when the RX FIFO drops below a user-programmed trigger level (1/4/8/14 bytes); auto-CTS gates TX transmission based on CTS input state. Both functions are enabled via MCR[5] and MCR[1], and they eliminate receive overrun without CPU polling - a critical capability in SC16C550BIB48-based modems and telemetry hubs.
What is the maximum serial data rate achievable with the SC16C550BIB48, and what clock frequency is required?
The SC16C550BIB48 supports up to 3 Mbit/s at 5 V, requiring a 48 MHz input clock (XTAL1 or external source). At 3.3 V, max rate is 2 Mbit/s; at 2.5 V, it is 1 Mbit/s. The internal baud generator divides the 16× clock by a programmable 16-bit divisor, and BAUDOUT outputs the exact 16× selected baud rate - enabling precise timing for external line drivers in SC16C550BIB48-based high-speed serial links.
How does the SC16C550BIB48 handle interrupts, and what priority scheme is used?
The SC16C550BIB48 uses a fixed-priority interrupt system with four sources: line status (highest), transmit holding register empty, receive data ready/receive timeout (equal priority), and modem status (lowest). The ISR register reports only the highest-pending interrupt; lower-priority events must be serviced after clearing the current one. This deterministic behavior ensures predictable response timing in SC16C550BIB48-based real-time firmware handling multiple serial channels.
Is the SC16C550BIB48 pin-compatible with older 16C450 designs, and what software changes are needed?
Yes - the SC16C550BIB48 powers up functionally identical to the 16C450 and runs all existing 16C450 software without modification. Its register map (THR/RHR, IER/ISR, LCR, MCR, etc.) matches exactly, and reset behavior preserves legacy compatibility. Enhanced features like FIFOs and auto-flow control are disabled by default; they activate only when explicitly configured via FCR and MCR - ensuring seamless migration path for SC16C550BIB48 in legacy 16C450-replacement projects.
SC16C550BIB48,128 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 48-LQFP
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Features:
- -
- Number of Channels:
- 1, UART
- FIFO's:
- 16 Byte
- Protocol:
- -
- Data Rate (Max):
- 3Mbps
- 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:
- 48-LQFP (7x7)
SC16C550BIB48,128 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SC16C550BIB48,128 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SC16C550BIB48,128 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 SC16C550BIB48,128 reliable?
The price and inventory of SC16C550BIB48,128 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SC16C550BIB48,128 is usually 5 days.
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Once your SC16C550BIB48,128 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 SC16C550BIB48,128?
For technical support, including SC16C550BIB48,128 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SC16C550BIB48,128 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SC16C550BIB48,128 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SC16C550BIB48,128 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 SC16C550BIB48,128 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SC16C550BIB48,128?
All SC16C550BIB48,128 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SC16C550BIB48,128, 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 SC16C550BIB48,128 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SC16C550BIB48,128:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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