NXP Semiconductors SC16C550IA44,529
- Part No.:
- SC16C550IA44,529
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Datasheet:
-
SC16C550IA44,529.pdf
- Description:
- IC UART SINGLE W/FIFO 44-PLCC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,606
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SC16C550IA44,529 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is a 16-byte FIFO UART IC with IrDA encoder/decoder, operating at 2.5 V/3.3 V/5 V across −40 °C to +85 °C, supporting up to 3 Mbit/s at 5 V, and housed in PLCC44 package. It serves as a serial interface bridge between microcontrollers and modems or infrared peripherals in industrial communication systems.
For engineers reviewing the SC16C550IA44,529 datasheet, SC16C550IA44,529 pinout, SC16C550IA44,529 application, or SC16C550IA44,529 equivalent, key selection considerations include FIFO trigger level programmability, auto-RTS/CTS hardware flow control, IrDA interface capability, 16-byte TX/RX FIFO depth, and compatibility with legacy 16C450 software stacks.
Technical Context
The SC16C550IA44,529 implements a dual 16-byte FIFO architecture for transmit and receive paths, with four selectable RX FIFO interrupt trigger levels (1/4/8/14 bytes) and independent baud rate generation via programmable divisor latches. Its internal register set includes enhanced features (EFR) enabling auto-flow control and Xon/Xoff software flow control.
It supports both standard modem interface (RTS/CTS/DSR/DTR/RI/DCD) and infrared (IrDA) physical layer encoding/decoding, with sleep mode operation and false start-bit detection. The device uses asynchronous framing (start/stop/parity bits), fully programmable character format (5–8 data bits, 1–2 stop bits, even/odd/no parity), and prioritized interrupt handling with TXRDY/RXRDY DMA signaling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V ±10% - enables interoperability across mixed-voltage embedded systems without level-shifting. |
| Max Data Rate | 3 Mbit/s at 5 V - supports high-speed modem and network interface applications requiring real-time serial throughput. |
| FIFO Depth | 16-byte TX and RX FIFOs - reduces CPU interrupt load by ~8× versus 1-byte 16C450, improving system efficiency in multi-channel environments. |
| Operating Temp | −40 °C to +85 °C - qualified for industrial control, automation, and harsh-environment embedded deployments. |
| Interface Standard | IrDA 1.0 encoder/decoder - enables direct infrared wireless communication without external transceiver circuitry. |
| Flow Control | Programmable auto-RTS/CTS and Xon/Xoff - eliminates overrun errors and minimizes host software overhead in bursty data streams. |
| Interrupt System | Prioritized, independently enabled TX/RX/line/modem interrupts - allows fine-grained event handling tailored to real-time OS or bare-metal firmware. |
Pinout & Package
SC16C550IA44,529 is packaged in plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC44) with 44 leads, 1.27 mm pitch, and JEDEC MO-047A compliant footprint. Pin 1 is located at corner adjacent to notch; package is lead-free and RoHS-compliant per original Philips specification.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| D0–D7 | Data Bus I/O | 8-bit bidirectional parallel interface to CPU or microcontroller data bus; 3-state TTL outputs support shared bus architectures. |
| A0–A2 | Register Address Select | Selects among 15 internal registers (THR/RHR, IER/ISR, LCR/LSR, MCR/MSR, FCR, EFR, etc.) during read/write cycles. |
| IOR / IOW | Read/Write Strobe Inputs | Asymmetric active-low/high strobes allow compatibility with Intel- or Motorola-style bus timing; only one required per cycle. |
| CS0–CS2 | Chip Select Logic | 3-input decode enables selective activation in multi-peripheral systems; CS0=HIGH, CS1=HIGH, CS2=LOW selects SC16C550IA44,529. |
| TX / RX | Serial Data I/O | Asynchronous full-duplex UART channel; TX drives composite serial output, RX accepts inverted/non-inverted logic-level input. |
| RTS / CTS | Hardware Flow Control | Auto-RTS deasserts when RX FIFO reaches programmed threshold; auto-CTS gates TX transmission - prevents buffer overrun without CPU intervention. |
| INT | Interrupt Output | Open-drain or push-pull (configurable) active-HIGH signal indicating pending TX/RX/line/modem events per priority-encoded ISR. |
| BAUDOUT / RCLK | Baud Clock Interface | BAUDOUT provides 16× transmitter clock; RCLK accepts 16× receiver clock - enables independent TX/RX timing or synchronous loopback. |
| MR | Master Reset Input | Active-HIGH asynchronous reset clears registers, disables outputs, and initializes to 16C450-compatible state on power-up. |
| AS | Address Strobe | Latches A0–A2 and CS0–CS2 levels on LOW-to-HIGH transition - supports multiplexed address/data buses and reduces bus contention. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 16-byte TX/RX FIFOs | Reduces CPU interrupt frequency by up to 16× versus 1-byte buffers, enabling deterministic response in real-time systems. |
| Auto-RTS/CTS flow control | Eliminates RX FIFO overflow in high-throughput links without software polling - critical for industrial PLC and protocol gateway designs. |
| IrDA 1.0 encoder/decoder | Integrates infrared physical layer functions, removing need for external IrDA transceiver IC and reducing BOM count and PCB area. |
| Four RX FIFO trigger levels | Enables tuning of interrupt latency vs. CPU load trade-off: 1-byte for low-latency control, 14-byte for bulk data streaming. |
| Sleep mode with floating XTAL2 | Reduces quiescent current during idle periods while retaining configuration - extends battery life in portable diagnostic tools. |
| Backward 16C450 software compatibility | Allows drop-in replacement in legacy systems using standard UART drivers, minimizing firmware porting effort and validation cost. |
Applications
| Industrial Serial Gateway | Embedded Modem Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Connecting legacy RS-232 field devices (sensors, actuators) to modern ARM-based controllers via isolated UART bridges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SC16C550IA44,529 acts as the primary serial protocol translator, managing framing, parity, and flow control between disparate voltage domains and timing requirements. Use Value: 16-byte FIFO and auto-CTS prevent data loss during transient bus congestion; IrDA option enables wireless commissioning without cabling. | Use Scenario: Integrating V.34/V.90 analog modems into industrial telemetry units for remote SCADA data upload over PSTN lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SC16C550IA44,529 provides high-speed (up to 3 Mbit/s) serial interface with precise baud rate generation and modem handshake signal management (DTR/RTS/DCD/RI). Use Value: Programmable Xon/Xoff and hardware flow control ensure reliable data transfer under variable line conditions; sleep mode lowers standby power in battery-backed units. |
| Medical Diagnostic Tool | POS Terminal Communication |
Use Scenario: Enabling bidirectional data exchange between handheld ultrasound units and PC-based analysis software via infrared link. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SC16C550IA44,529 handles IrDA physical layer encoding/decoding and serial framing, synchronizing with host USB-to-UART bridge. Use Value: Integrated IrDA eliminates external transceiver; 16-byte FIFO accommodates bursty image metadata packets without CPU overload. | Use Scenario: Supporting secure credit card reader communication in retail POS terminals using RS-232 or proprietary serial protocols. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SC16C550IA44,529 manages encrypted command/response sequences between EMV-certified readers and main controller, enforcing strict timing and error detection. Use Value: False start-bit detection and complete status reporting (LSR/MSR) ensure transaction integrity; industrial temp range guarantees reliability in uncontrolled store environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar UART applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TL16C550CPTR | Same 16-byte FIFO, 5 V only, no IrDA, no 2.5 V/3.3 V support, identical PLCC44 pinout. | Lacks infrared interface and multi-voltage operation - suitable only for legacy 5 V-only systems without IrDA needs. | Select TL16C550CPTR only if IrDA and wide supply range are unnecessary and cost is primary constraint. |
| ST16C550CQ44 | Pin-compatible PLCC44 variant; supports 5 V and 3.3 V but not 2.5 V; no integrated IrDA encoder/decoder. | Requires external IrDA transceiver for infrared use; lower max data rate (2.5 Mbit/s at 5 V) than SC16C550IA44,529's 3 Mbit/s. | Choose ST16C550CQ44 when IrDA is unused and existing 3.3 V design requires minimal revalidation. |
Compared with TL16C550CPTR and ST16C550CQ44, SC16C550IA44,529 uniquely delivers triple-voltage operation (2.5/3.3/5 V), integrated IrDA PHY, and highest 5 V data rate (3 Mbit/s), making it optimal for new industrial and medical designs requiring flexibility and wireless commissioning.
Availability
SC16C550IA44,529 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial serial gateways, embedded modem interfaces, medical diagnostic tools, and POS terminal communication requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.
Supply support for SC16C550IA44,529 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, with roots in Philips' semiconductor division.
The SC16C550IA44,529 belongs to NXP's legacy UART product line, designed specifically for robust, low-overhead serial communication in industrial control, instrumentation, and embedded systems demanding long-term supply stability and backward compatibility.
FAQ
What voltage levels does the SC16C550IA44,529 support?
The SC16C550IA44,529 operates at 2.5 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V ±10%, allowing direct integration into mixed-voltage embedded systems without external level shifters. This triple-supply capability ensures compatibility with legacy 5 V microcontrollers, modern 3.3 V SoCs, and ultra-low-power 2.5 V sensor nodes - all using the same SC16C550IA44,529 footprint and firmware.
Does the SC16C550IA44,529 support infrared communication?
Yes, the SC16C550IA44,529 integrates a full IrDA 1.0 encoder/decoder, enabling direct infrared data transmission and reception without external transceiver components. This feature is confirmed in the official Philips product data sheet Rev. 05 and is implemented in silicon - the SC16C550IA44,529 handles pulse shaping, encoding, and decoding internally, simplifying optical interface design.
How does auto-RTS flow control work on the SC16C550IA44,529?
Auto-RTS on the SC16C550IA44,529 deasserts the RTS output when the receive FIFO reaches a user-programmed trigger level (1/4/8/14 bytes), signaling the remote device to pause transmission. RTS reasserts automatically once space becomes available. This hardware-controlled mechanism prevents RX FIFO overflow without CPU polling - a core function validated in the SC16C550IA44,529's functional description and timing diagrams.
Is the SC16C550IA44,529 pin-compatible with older UARTs?
Yes, the SC16C550IA44,529 is explicitly pin-compatible with ST16C550, TL16C550, and PC16C550 in PLCC44 package, and powers up functionally equivalent to the 16C450. This compatibility is documented in the General Description section of the Philips datasheet and verified across all 44 pins - enabling drop-in replacement in existing designs with no PCB changes required.
What is the maximum serial data rate supported by the SC16C550IA44,529?
The SC16C550IA44,529 supports up to 3 Mbit/s at 5 V, 2 Mbit/s at 3.3 V, and 1 Mbit/s at 2.5 V - values specified in the Features section of the official Philips product data sheet Rev. 05. These rates assume proper clock source (e.g., 48 MHz crystal for 3 Mbit/s at 5 V) and are achievable in FIFO mode with appropriate trigger level and interrupt handling.
SC16C550IA44,529 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 44-LCC (J-Lead)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Features:
- -
- Number of Channels:
- 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:
- 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)
SC16C550IA44,529 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SC16C550IA44,529 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SC16C550IA44,529 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 SC16C550IA44,529 reliable?
The price and inventory of SC16C550IA44,529 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SC16C550IA44,529 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SC16C550IA44,529?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SC16C550IA44,529 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SC16C550IA44,529?
SC16C550IA44,529 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SC16C550IA44,529 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 SC16C550IA44,529?
For technical support, including SC16C550IA44,529 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SC16C550IA44,529 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SC16C550IA44,529 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SC16C550IA44,529 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 SC16C550IA44,529 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SC16C550IA44,529?
All SC16C550IA44,529 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SC16C550IA44,529, 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 SC16C550IA44,529 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SC16C550IA44,529:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SC16C550IA44,529 Tags

-
SC16IS741AIPWJ
NXP Semiconductors

-
TL16C550CPTR
Texas Instruments

-
TL16C550CIPTR
Texas Instruments

-
SC16C752BIB48,128
NXP Semiconductors

-
ST16C2550CQ48-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
ST16C2550CJ44-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
ST16C2552CJ44-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
ST16C1550IQ48-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
ST16C2550IQ48-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
ST16C554DIQ64-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
ST16C554DCQ64-F
MaxLinear, Inc.
-
XR17V352IB113-F
MaxLinear, Inc.
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

.jpg)