Renesas UPD6P8MC-5A4-A

Overview

UPD6P8MC-5A4-A from Renesas Electronics is a 4-bit single-chip microcontroller optimized for infrared remote control transmission, featuring 2026 × 10-bit one-time PROM program memory, 32 × 4-bit RAM, and an on-chip carrier generator supporting programmable high/low pulse widths from 250 ns to 64 µs at 4 MHz operation. It operates from 1.9–3.6 V over –40 to +85°C and integrates 8 KI/O pins, 4 KI input pins, and 3 sense inputs (S0–S2), with S1 shared as active-low LED output for IR transmission feedback.

For engineers reviewing the UPD6P8MC-5A4-A datasheet, UPD6P8MC-5A4-A pinout, UPD6P8MC-5A4-A application, or UPD6P8MC-5A4-A equivalent, this device serves as a cost-effective, low-power MCU for consumer IR transmitter design-particularly where small-volume production, PROM-based firmware lock-in, and minimal external components (e.g., no external oscillator required for ceramic-resonator-based clock) are critical selection criteria.

Technical Context

The UPD6P8MC-5A4-A implements a dedicated 4-bit CPU core with 1-level stack (shared with RAM register RF), executing instructions in 16 µs at 4 MHz. Its carrier generator is fully software-controlled via modulo registers, enabling precise NEC-compatible IR modulation without external timing circuitry.

It supports two operational modes: normal execution and parallel PROM programming. In normal mode, it uses an external ceramic resonator (XIN/XOUT) for system clock generation (3.5–4.5 MHz), includes a built-in POC (Power-On Clear) circuit and RAM retention detector, and provides STOP-mode power reduction triggered by configurable sense inputs (S0–S2).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UPD6P8MC-5A4-A is housed in a 20-pin plastic SSOP package (7.62 mm width, 300 mil), optimized for compact IR remote PCB layouts with surface-mount assembly compatibility.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with UPD6P8MC-5A4-A, the UPD6P8AMC-5A4-A offers serial programming flexibility but requires different tooling, while the UPD6P8BMC-5A4-A integrates an oscillator and adds S3-enabling simpler clocking and larger key matrices-but sacrifices resonator-based timing precision and pin compatibility.

Availability

UPD6P8MC-5A4-A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for infrared remote control transmitters, consumer audio/video equipment, and household appliance remotes requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant lead-free packaging.

Supply support for UPD6P8MC-5A4-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 devices for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The µPD6P8 family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power infrared remote control transmitters in AV and home appliance applications-emphasizing integration, PROM-based security, and minimal external component requirements.

FAQ

What is the programming method supported by UPD6P8MC-5A4-A?

UPD6P8MC-5A4-A uses parallel PROM programming, requiring a dedicated gang programmer with 20-pin ZIF socket and VPP = 12.5 V. Unlike the serial-programming UPD6P8A variant, it does not support in-system or serial loading. Programming is one-time only, and verification must be performed immediately after write cycles per Renesas specification U17848EJ5V0DS Section 12.

Does UPD6P8MC-5A4-A include an internal oscillator?

No, UPD6P8MC-5A4-A does not include an internal oscillator. It relies on an external ceramic resonator connected between XIN (pin 8) and XOUT (pin 7) for clock generation at 3.5–4.5 MHz. This distinguishes it from the UPD6P8B variant, which integrates an on-chip oscillator and repurposes those pins for other functions.

How many keys can UPD6P8MC-5A4-A support in a matrix configuration?

UPD6P8MC-5A4-A supports up to 32 keys using its 8 KI/O pins and 4 KI input pins in standard matrix mode. With sense inputs S0–S2 enabled for key expansion, it can decode up to 56 keys - confirmed in the µPD6P8 datasheet block diagram and functional table (Document No. U17848EJ5V0DS, p.5).

What is the function of the S1/LED pin on UPD6P8MC-5A4-A?

On UPD6P8MC-5A4-A, the S1/LED pin (pin 4) serves dual roles: as a sense input (S1) in key matrix applications and as an active-low IR transmission indicator. When REM outputs a carrier burst, S1/LED asserts low synchronously - providing visual confirmation of transmission without requiring additional driver circuitry.

Is UPD6P8MC-5A4-A RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, UPD6P8MC-5A4-A is RoHS compliant and lead-free, as indicated by the "-A" suffix in its part number per Renesas' ordering information (U17848EJ5V0DS, p.2). It meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU requirements and is manufactured using lead-free plating and molding compounds.