Renesas UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX

Overview

UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX from Renesas Electronics is an 8-bit single-chip microcontroller in the 78K0/KF2 family, featuring 64 KB on-chip Flash memory, 4 KB RAM, and a 16-bit timer/counter with PWM output capability. It operates at up to 20 MHz CPU clock frequency with 10-bit A/D converter (8 channels), and supports I²C, UART, and CSI serial interfaces for embedded control applications in industrial sensors and motor drive modules.

For engineers reviewing the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX datasheet, UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX pinout, UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX application, or UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX equivalent, key selection criteria include Flash endurance (100,000 write/erase cycles), operating voltage range (2.7–5.5 V), and support for on-chip debug via single-wire interface - all critical for cost-sensitive, low-power industrial firmware updates and real-time sensor interfacing.

Technical Context

The UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX implements the 78K0S CPU core with 16-bit addressing and 128-byte register bank, executing instructions in one to four CPU cycles. Its peripheral set includes a 16-bit multifunction timer (TM00–TM03) with input capture, output compare, and PWM generation, plus a watchdog timer with independent clock source.

It integrates a 10-bit successive-approximation A/D converter with programmable sample-and-hold timing and conversion start triggers from internal timers or external pins. The device supports two power-saving modes - HALT and STOP - with wake-up via external interrupt or reset, enabling sub-mA active current draw in battery-powered monitoring nodes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX is housed in a 100-pin LQFP package (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per Renesas' 78K0/KF2 User's Manual Rev.4.01, including dedicated reset, clock input (X1/X2), and debug (BKGD) pins.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit microcontroller applications.

Compared with UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX, R5F104LEAFB#30 offers newer architecture and lower active power but requires full firmware rework, while UPD78F0536AGC-GAD-AX delivers identical functionality at lower Flash capacity - making it the only true pin- and code-compatible alternative for legacy 78K0-based systems.

Availability

UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation controllers, motor drive modules, and smart metering interfaces requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX 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 Japanese semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and power devices for industrial, automotive, and infrastructure markets.

The 78K0/KF2 product line was designed for cost-effective, high-reliability embedded control in factory automation, building management, and appliance applications - emphasizing Flash endurance, mixed-signal integration, and long-lifecycle support.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX?

The UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX supports a maximum system clock frequency of 20 MHz, achievable using either an external crystal (1–20 MHz) connected to X1/X2 pins or the internal high-speed oscillator. At this frequency, the 78K0S CPU delivers approximately 10 MIPS performance, sufficient for real-time control tasks such as PWM generation and A/D sampling at 100 kSPS.

Does the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX support in-circuit debugging?

Yes, the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX supports on-chip debugging via the single-wire BKGD pin, compatible with Renesas' QB-MINI2 emulator and ID78K0-QB debugger. This interface enables full breakpoint control, register inspection, and Flash programming without requiring additional JTAG pins or external debug headers - simplifying PCB layout and reducing test setup complexity for the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX.

What is the Flash memory endurance specification for the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX?

The UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX specifies 100,000 write/erase cycles for its 64 KB on-chip Flash memory, with guaranteed 20-year data retention at 85°C. This endurance rating is validated under Renesas' standard Flash programming conditions and applies to both main program memory and data flash areas - critical for applications requiring frequent firmware updates or parameter logging using the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX.

Can the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX operate from a 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX operates across a supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V, fully supporting 3.3 V nominal systems. At 3.3 V, it maintains full functionality including 20 MHz operation, A/D conversion accuracy, and I/O drive strength - making it suitable for mixed-voltage designs where the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX interfaces with 3.3 V peripherals while retaining compatibility with legacy 5 V logic domains.

How many A/D input channels does the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX provide?

The UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX integrates an 8-channel, 10-bit successive-approximation A/D converter. Channels are selectable via software register configuration and include dedicated analog input pins (AN00–AN07) mapped to port pins P10–P17. Conversion can be triggered by software command, timer overflow, or external event - enabling synchronized sampling in motor control or sensor acquisition applications using the UPD78F0546AGC-GAD-AX.