NXP Semiconductors SC16C554DIA68,512
- Part No.:
- SC16C554DIA68,512
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 68-LCC (J-Lead)
- Datasheet:
-
SC16C554DIA68,512.pdf
- Description:
- IC UART QUAD W/FIFO 68-PLCC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SC16C554DIA68 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is a quad UART IC with 16-byte transmit/receive FIFOs, IrDA infrared encoder/decoder, and dual-mode (Intel 16-bit/Motorola 68-pin) bus interface. It operates at 5 V, 3.3 V, or 2.5 V, supports up to 5 Mbit/s data rate, and delivers four independent asynchronous serial channels in a PLCC68 package for industrial embedded communications.
For engineers reviewing the SC16C554DIA68 datasheet, SC16C554DIA68 pinout, SC16C554DIA68 application, or SC16C554DIA68 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 16-byte FIFO depth per channel, hardware/software flow control capability, IrDA compliance, dual-bus interface selectability (16/68 mode), and industrial temperature range operation.
Technical Context
The SC16C554DIA68 integrates four independent UART channels sharing a common data bus and clock domain, each with dedicated modem control (RTS/CTS/DSR/DTR/RI/CD), status reporting, and programmable interrupt logic. Its architecture supports both 16-mode (Intel-style IOR/IOW/CSA–CSD) and 68-mode (Motorola-style R/W/CS/A3–A4) addressing via the 16/68 pin.
FIFO operation is controlled by the FCR register, enabling four selectable receive trigger levels (1/4/8/14 bytes) and automatic hardware flow control via EFR[6:7]. The on-chip baud rate generator accepts crystal (up to 24 MHz) or external clock inputs and supports DC to 5 Mbit/s (5 V/3.3 V) or 3 Mbit/s (2.5 V).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channels | 4 independent UARTs - enables simultaneous serial communication across four legacy or peripheral interfaces without CPU polling overhead. |
| FIFO depth | 16-byte TX/RX per channel - reduces interrupt frequency by >80% vs. 1-byte buffers, lowering host CPU load in multi-channel systems. |
| Max data rate | 5 Mbit/s at 5 V/3.3 V - supports high-speed modem and industrial fieldbus links; limited to 3 Mbit/s at 2.5 V for power-sensitive designs. |
| Interface modes | 16-mode (Intel) or 68-mode (Motorola) - selectable via 16/68 pin; eliminates need for external bus translators in mixed-architecture systems. |
| IrDA support | Integrated encoder/decoder - enables direct IrDA 1.0-compliant wireless serial communication without external PHY components. |
| Supply voltage | 2.5 V / 3.3 V / 5 V - allows drop-in replacement in legacy 5 V systems and migration to low-voltage industrial controllers. |
| Operating temp | −40 °C to +85 °C - qualified for industrial automation, transportation, and outdoor equipment deployments. |
Pinout & Package
SC16C554DIA68 uses a plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC68) package with 68 leads, 22.2 mm × 22.2 mm body size, and J-lead profile suitable for through-hole or surface-mount assembly. Pin functions differ between 16-mode and 68-mode configurations, selected by the 16/68 input pin.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 16/68 | Interface mode select | Logic-high = 16-mode (Intel bus); logic-low = 68-mode (Motorola bus); determines assignment of IOR/IOW vs. R/W and INTA–INTD vs. IRQ. |
| CSA–CSD | Channel-select chip enables | Active-low enables for UART A–D in 16-mode only; replaced by CS + A3/A4 decoding in 68-mode. |
| TXA–TXD, RXA–RXD | Serial data I/O | Four independent full-duplex UART channels; each pair connects directly to RS-232/RS-485 transceivers or IrDA PHYs. |
| RTSA–RTSD, CTSA–CTSD | Hardware flow control | Per-channel RTS outputs and CTS inputs - enable automatic pause/resume of transmission when FIFO thresholds are crossed. |
| INTA–INTD / IRQ | Interrupt signaling | 16-mode: four dedicated active-high interrupts; 68-mode: single wire-OR'd active-low IRQ shared across all channels. |
| TXRDY / RXRDY | FIFO status flags | Active-low open-drain signals indicating any channel's TX FIFO has space or RX FIFO has data - simplifies polling-free system design. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 16-byte FIFO per channel | Reduces host interrupt load by buffering up to 16 characters per direction, enabling deterministic response timing in real-time OS environments. |
| Auto hardware/software flow control | Eliminates data loss during burst transfers by dynamically asserting RTS or injecting XON/XOFF based on FIFO fill level - no firmware intervention required. |
| Dual-bus interface (16/68 mode) | Single device supports Intel 80x86 and Motorola 68k-based controllers without redesigning PCB layout or driver software abstraction layers. |
| IrDA encoder/decoder | Direct SIR (Serial Infrared) physical layer support compliant with IrDA 1.0 - removes need for discrete IR transceiver ICs in handheld or kiosk applications. |
| Sleep mode | Reduces quiescent current to <100 µA during idle periods - extends battery life in portable diagnostic or remote monitoring equipment. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Serial Gateway | Legacy Equipment Retrofit Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Connecting multiple RS-232 field devices (sensors, HMIs, drives) to a central PLC controller over a single parallel bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Quad UART bridges parallel CPU bus to four isolated serial streams; FIFOs absorb timing jitter from variable-latency fieldbus responses. Use Value: Enables deterministic polling of four devices simultaneously using one memory-mapped address window, reducing FPGA or microcontroller gate count. | Use Scenario: Upgrading aging CNC machines with modern Ethernet-to-serial gateways while retaining original RS-232 control panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SC16C554DIA68 acts as the serial protocol engine, handling framing, parity, and flow control for four independent tooling axes. Use Value: Maintains backward compatibility with legacy ASCII command sets while adding IrDA diagnostics and higher throughput for firmware updates. |
| Multi-Port Terminal Server | Medical Device Data Aggregator |
Use Scenario: Embedded Linux terminal server aggregating console access from four network switches or routers via RS-232. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides four concurrent UART channels with DMA-ready TXRDY/RXRDY signals for efficient kernel driver integration. Use Value: Eliminates need for four discrete UARTs or complex USB-to-serial hubs; reduces BOM cost and board area by >40%. | Use Scenario: Patient monitor collecting ECG, SpO₂, and NIBP data from four analog front-end modules via isolated RS-232 links. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Receives time-stamped sensor frames with hardware framing error detection and stores them in 16-byte FIFOs before DMA transfer to ARM processor. Use Value: Guarantees lossless capture of critical waveform data even during CPU interrupt latency spikes - meets IEC 62304 Class C requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad UART applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST16C554CJ68 | Same PLCC68 footprint and pinout; lacks IrDA encoder/decoder; max data rate 3 Mbit/s at 5 V. | No infrared capability; requires external IrDA PHY if wireless diagnostics needed. | Select when IrDA is unnecessary and legacy ST part qualification is mandated. |
| TL16C554IPN | LQFP80 package; identical 16-byte FIFO and dual-bus support; TI's version includes enhanced ESD protection (±15 kV HBM). | Requires PCB redesign due to 80-pin LQFP; better suited for new designs prioritizing robustness over footprint reuse. | Select for new industrial designs requiring higher ESD immunity and availability beyond NXP's long-term supply roadmap. |
Compared with ST16C554CJ68 and TL16C554IPN, the SC16C554DIA68 uniquely combines IrDA PHY integration, 5 Mbit/s operation at 5 V, and PLCC68 compatibility - making it optimal for retrofitting infrared-capable serial gateways without layout changes.
Availability
SC16C554DIA68 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC serial gateways, legacy equipment retrofit interfaces, and multi-port terminal servers requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for SC16C554DIA68 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 SC16C554DIA68 belongs to NXP's legacy industrial UART product line, designed specifically for high-reliability, multi-channel serial bridging in factory automation, medical instrumentation, and telecom infrastructure where long-term availability and pin compatibility matter.
FAQ
What is the maximum serial data rate supported by the SC16C554DIA68?
The SC16C554DIA68 supports up to 5 Mbit/s at 5 V or 3.3 V supply, and 3 Mbit/s at 2.5 V. This is achieved using an external clock input; with a 24 MHz crystal, the practical limit is 1.5 Mbit/s. The SC16C554DIA68's baud rate generator is fully programmable and supports standard rates from DC to these maximums, ensuring compatibility with modems, industrial fieldbuses, and legacy peripherals.
Does the SC16C554DIA68 support both Intel and Motorola bus interfaces?
Yes, the SC16C554DIA68 supports both interfaces via the 16/68 pin. When pulled high, it operates in 16-mode (Intel-style IOR/IOW/CSA–CSD); when pulled low, it switches to 68-mode (Motorola-style R/W/CS/A3–A4). This dual-mode capability allows the same SC16C554DIA68 to interface with 80x86, 68k, or ARM-based controllers without hardware modification - a key advantage for multi-platform designs.
How does the SC16C554DIA68 handle hardware flow control across its four UART channels?
The SC16C554DIA68 implements per-channel RTS/CTS signals (RTSA–RTSD, CTSA–CTSD) with automatic hardware flow control enabled via the Enhanced Feature Register (EFR[6:7]). When triggered, it halts transmission upon CTS deassertion and resumes when CTS is reasserted - all without CPU involvement. Each channel's behavior is independently configurable, making SC16C554DIA68 ideal for asymmetric multi-port systems like terminal servers.
Is the IrDA functionality in the SC16C554DIA68 compliant with industry standards?
Yes, the SC16C554DIA68 integrates a fully compliant IrDA 1.0 encoder/decoder supporting SIR (Serial Infrared) at up to 115.2 kbit/s. It handles pulse shaping, NRZ encoding, and RZI decoding internally, eliminating the need for external IR transceivers. This built-in capability enables direct infrared diagnostics, configuration, and firmware updates in medical, kiosk, and portable industrial tools using the SC16C554DIA68.
What are the key differences between the SC16C554DIA68 and the ST16C554CJ68?
The SC16C554DIA68 adds IrDA encoder/decoder and supports 5 Mbit/s (vs. 3 Mbit/s) at 5 V compared to the ST16C554CJ68. Both share PLCC68 packaging and pin compatibility, but SC16C554DIA68's enhanced feature set targets applications needing infrared diagnostics or higher-speed serial links. The SC16C554DIA68 also offers broader voltage range (2.5 V/3.3 V/5 V) versus ST's 5 V-only operation.
SC16C554DIA68,512 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 68-LCC (J-Lead)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Features:
- -
- Number of Channels:
- 4, QUART
- 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:
- 68-PLCC (24.18x24.18)
SC16C554DIA68,512 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SC16C554DIA68,512 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SC16C554DIA68,512 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 SC16C554DIA68,512 reliable?
The price and inventory of SC16C554DIA68,512 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SC16C554DIA68,512 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SC16C554DIA68,512?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SC16C554DIA68,512 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SC16C554DIA68,512?
SC16C554DIA68,512 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SC16C554DIA68,512 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 SC16C554DIA68,512?
For technical support, including SC16C554DIA68,512 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SC16C554DIA68,512 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SC16C554DIA68,512 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SC16C554DIA68,512 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 SC16C554DIA68,512 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SC16C554DIA68,512?
All SC16C554DIA68,512 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SC16C554DIA68,512, 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 SC16C554DIA68,512 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SC16C554DIA68,512:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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