Renesas UPD6P4BGS-A

Overview

UPD6P4BGS-A from Renesas Electronics is a 4-bit single-chip microcontroller designed specifically for infrared remote control transmitters, featuring 1002 × 10-bit one-time PROM program memory, 32 × 4-bit RAM, and integrated carrier generation circuitry for IR modulation at selectable frequencies (fX/8 to fX/192). It operates from 2.2 V to 3.6 V at up to 8 MHz and supports 32–96 key matrix configurations in consumer AV and household appliance remotes.

For engineers reviewing the UPD6P4BGS-A datasheet, UPD6P4BGS-A pinout, UPD6P4BGS-A application, or UPD6P4BGS-A equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions in normal and PROM programming modes, real-world IR transmitter design constraints (e.g., RESET low-threshold design at <2.7 V), and validated alternative microcontrollers for legacy remote control system upgrades.

Technical Context

The UPD6P4BGS-A implements a dedicated 4-bit CPU core with 1-level stack (shared with RAM register file RF), executing instructions in 16 µs at 4 MHz ceramic oscillation. Its system architecture integrates a programmable 9-bit timer, POC (Power-On Clear) circuit with temperature-limited operation (–20 to +70°C), and hardware carrier generator supporting six IR carrier frequencies plus high-level output mode.

It features dual-mode I/O: eight KI/O pins configurable as key-scan outputs or inputs with software-controllable pull-down resistors; four dedicated KI input pins; and dual-function S0/S1 pins-S0 as sense input, S1/LED as bidirectional port serving as key return input or active-low IR transmission indicator synchronized with REM output.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UPD6P4BGS-A is housed in a 20-pin plastic SOP (7.62 mm, 300 mil width) with gull-wing leads. Pin functions differ between Normal Operating Mode and PROM Programming Mode; only Normal Operating Mode is used in end applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar infrared remote control transmitter applications.

Compared with UPD62GCS-A and UPD63AGCS-A, the UPD6P4BGS-A trades mask-ROM cost efficiency for engineering flexibility-its one-time PROM enables rapid iteration and small-batch customization, while retaining identical IR carrier generation, key scan architecture, and thermal qualification for consumer remote deployments.

Availability

UPD6P4BGS-A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for infrared remote control transmitters, consumer audio/video equipment, and home appliance control systems requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for UPD6P4BGS-A 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

Renesas Electronics Corporation is a global semiconductor leader specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and power solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The UPD6P4BGS-A belongs to Renesas' legacy µPD6x family of 4-bit infrared remote control microcontrollers, engineered for ultra-low-cost, low-power, single-function transmitter applications where firmware flexibility and minimal external components are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the UPD6P4BGS-A?

The UPD6P4BGS-A supports system clock frequencies from 2.4 MHz to 8 MHz using a ceramic resonator. At 8 MHz, the supply voltage must be 2.7–3.6 V; operation below 2.7 V at 8 MHz is prohibited. Instruction execution time is 7.9–27 µs depending on frequency and voltage, calculated as tCY = 64/fX.

Does the UPD6P4BGS-A require external components for IR transmission?

No, the UPD6P4BGS-A integrates a hardware carrier generator and push-pull REM output capable of directly driving standard IR LEDs (7.5 mA peak). Only a series current-limiting resistor is needed between REM and the LED anode; no external oscillator, transistor, or gate logic is required for basic NEC-format transmission.

How is the RESET pin configured on the UPD6P4BGS-A?

The UPD6P4BGS-A includes an internal POC (Power-On Clear) circuit that asserts RESET low during power-up. It also features built-in 25–100 kΩ pull-up and 2.5–15 kΩ pull-down resistors. Per datasheet requirement, the external circuit must ensure RESET goes low when VDD falls below 2.7 V to guarantee reliable reset behavior.

Can the UPD6P4BGS-A be reprogrammed after initial PROM write?

No, the UPD6P4BGS-A contains one-time programmable PROM. Once written, the program memory cannot be erased or rewritten. Programming requires +6 V on VDD and +12.5 V on VPP in a dedicated mode using CLK, MD0–MD3, and D0–D7 pins - intended for final firmware burn-in, not field updates.

What key matrix configurations does the UPD6P4BGS-A support?

The UPD6P4BGS-A natively supports 32-key matrices using its 8 KI/O and 4 KI pins. With S0 and S1/LED pins enabled as additional inputs, it scales to 48 keys; adding diodes to the matrix expands capacity to 96 keys - all without external decoding ICs or GPIO expanders.