Update Time:2025-02-27

MC68HC908QY4CDT Features, Pinout, Applications, and Datasheet

The MC68HC908QY4CDT is a robust and versatile 8-bit microcontroller offering a combination of compact size, low power consumption, and integrated peripherals. Its wide voltage range, 4KB flash memory, and 13 I/O pins make it an excellent choice for consumer, automotive, and industrial applications.

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MC68HC908QY4CDT Features, Pinout, Applications, and Datasheet

The MC68HC908QY4CDT, also known as one of the most versatile microcontrollers in the 68HC08 family, is widely recognized for its robust performance and low power consumption. It is commonly used in automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial applications. In this blog, we will discuss its key features, pinout, applications, and provide a comprehensive datasheet for engineers and developers looking to leverage this microcontroller in their projects.

 

Introduction to MC68HC908QY4CDT

 

Manufactured by Motorola (now NXP), the MC68HC908QY4CDT is a member of the HC08 family of 8-bit microcontrollers. These microcontrollers are renowned for their ease of use, low cost, and powerful performance. The MC68HC908QY4CDT features a highly efficient architecture that allows it to handle a wide range of tasks, from basic control systems to complex embedded applications.

 

Key Features of the MC68HC908QY4CDT

 

The MC68HC908QY4CDT is packed with features that make it ideal for a wide array of embedded applications. Some of its key attributes include:

 

1. 8-Bit Processor Core

The MC68HC908QY4CDT uses an 8-bit CPU, which makes it suitable for simpler embedded applications that do not require the computational power of a 32-bit processor. This low-power design is ideal for battery-powered devices.

 

2. Operating Speed

This microcontroller can operate at a maximum clock speed of up to 8 MHz. While this is not extremely high by modern standards, it is more than sufficient for many low-to-moderate speed applications.

 

3. Memory

• Flash Memory: 4 KB of Flash memory provides non-volatile storage for program code.

RAM: 256 bytes of RAM, which is sufficient for storing small data variables and stack operations.

EEPROM: 128 bytes of EEPROM for storing data that needs to persist even when the device is powered off.

 

4. Peripheral Features

Timers: The microcontroller features several built-in timers for handling various time-dependent operations, including PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) for motor control or LED dimming.

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): A 10-bit ADC is available for converting analog signals to digital data for further processing.

UART: The device includes a UART interface, allowing for serial communication with other devices such as sensors, controllers, or other microcontrollers.

 

5. Low Power Consumption

The MC68HC908QY4CDT is designed for low-power applications. It has a number of power-saving features, such as the ability to enter a low-power mode when idle, which makes it ideal for battery-operated devices.

 

6. Temperature Range

The device operates in the temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, making it suitable for a wide variety of industrial and automotive environments.

 

7. Clocking and Oscillation

It features an internal oscillator and can also work with an external clock source. This flexibility allows the microcontroller to be optimized for different system designs.

 

8. Interrupt Handling

The microcontroller offers several interrupt sources, making it efficient in handling time-critical tasks and real-time responses.

 

 

Pinout of the MC68HC908QY4CDT

Understanding the pinout of a microcontroller is essential for integrating it into your system. Below is the MC68HC908QY4CDT's typical pinout layout:

 

Pin NumberPin NameFunction Description
1VddPower supply pin (5V)
2VssGround pin
3Port AGeneral-purpose I/O pins (A0-A7)
4Port BGeneral-purpose I/O pins (B0-B7)
5Port CGeneral-purpose I/O pins (C0-C7)
6RESETReset pin, used to restart the microcontroller
7XTAL1Crystal oscillator input
8XTAL2Crystal oscillator output
9T0Timer 0 input/output
10T1Timer 1 input/output
11RXDUART receive data
12TXDUART transmit data
13VssGround pin
14NMINon-maskable interrupt input

 

Pin Functionality Breakdown

 

Ports A, B, C: These are general-purpose I/O ports, allowing the user to connect various external devices such as sensors, actuators, or other digital components.

UART Pins: The RXD (receive) and TXD (transmit) pins are used for serial communication, typically with other microcontrollers or peripherals.

Timer Pins: The T0 and T1 pins are used for interfacing with the microcontroller’s internal timers, useful in applications like PWM signal generation or event counting.

RESET Pin: The RESET pin is used to restart the microcontroller, typically after power-up or during a system failure.

 

 

Applications of the MC68HC908QY4CDT

 

The MC68HC908QY4CDT microcontroller is used in a wide variety of applications. Below are some common areas where this microcontroller excels:

 

1. Automotive Systems

The MC68HC908QY4CDT’s low power consumption, reliability, and temperature range make it an excellent choice for automotive applications. It can be used in vehicle control systems, sensor monitoring, and communication modules.

 

2. Consumer Electronics

Devices such as remote controls, toys, and home automation systems can benefit from the MC68HC908QY4CDT’s small form factor, low power usage, and versatile I/O capabilities.

 

3. Industrial Control Systems

The ability to handle analog inputs (via the ADC), timers, and communication protocols makes it suitable for industrial control applications, including motor control, monitoring systems, and sensor interfacing.

 

4. Embedded Systems

Due to its small size and efficiency, the MC68HC908QY4CDT is ideal for embedded applications where space and power are at a premium, such as wearable devices or IoT applications.

 

5. Medical Devices

The MC68HC908QY4CDT can also be used in medical devices like glucose meters, portable diagnostic tools, and other battery-powered devices where low power and reliable performance are critical.

 

 

MC68HC908QY4CDT Datasheet

 

For those looking to dive deeper into the technical specifications and electrical characteristics of the MC68HC908QY4CDT, the datasheet provides comprehensive information. The datasheet includes:

 

Electrical characteristics such as voltage ranges, current consumption, and maximum operating conditions.

Timing diagrams for various input/output operations.

Detailed pin descriptions for all pins on the microcontroller.

Memory map that shows the structure of flash, RAM, and EEPROM.

Peripheral registers to access and configure various features like timers, UART, and ADC.

 

To access the full MC68HC908QY4CDT datasheet, visit the official NXP website or consult your authorized distributor.

 

Comparison Table: MC68HC908QY4CDT vs. Similar Microcontrollers

 

Here is a comparison table with a few microcontrollers from the same family for a better perspective on the MC68HC908QY4CDT’s place in the market:

 

FeatureMC68HC908QY4CDTMC68HC908AB32PIC16F877A
CPU8-bit HC088-bit HC088-bit PIC
Flash Memory4 KB32 KB14 KB
RAM256 bytes1 KB368 bytes
EEPROM128 bytes128 bytes256 bytes
ADC Resolution10-bit8-bit10-bit
UART SupportYesYesYes
Operating Voltage4.5V to 5.5V4.5V to 5.5V2.0V to 5.5V
Maximum Clock Speed8 MHz8 MHz20 MHz
Temperature Range-40°C to 85°C-40°C to 85°C-40°C to 85°C
Power ConsumptionLowLowModerate

 

 

Conclusion

 

The MC68HC908QY4CDT is a robust and versatile 8-bit microcontroller offering a combination of compact size, low power consumption, and integrated peripherals. Its wide voltage range, 4KB flash memory, and 13 I/O pins make it an excellent choice for consumer, automotive, and industrial applications.

 

 

FAQs About MC68HC908QY4CDT:

 

1. What is the clock speed of the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT operates at a maximum clock speed of 8 MHz.

 

2. What is the maximum temperature range for the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT operates within a temperature range

 

3. What is the memory size of the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT features 4 KB of Flash memory for program storage, 256 bytes of RAM for data, and 128 bytes of EEPROM for non-volatile data storage.

 

4. Can I use the MC68HC908QY4CDT in automotive applications?

Yes, the MC68HC908QY4CDT is ideal for automotive applications due to its wide operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and its low power consumption, which is essential for automotive control systems, sensors, and communication modules.

 

5. Does the MC68HC908QY4CDT have built-in communication interfaces?

Yes, it includes a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter) for serial communication, which is commonly used for communication between microcontrollers and peripheral devices.

 

6. What is the role of the ADC in the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The microcontroller features a 10-bit ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter), which allows you to convert analog signals (e.g., sensor data) into digital values for further processing. This is especially useful in applications requiring sensor interfacing.

 

7. What are the power-saving features of the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT is designed with low power consumption in mind. It includes multiple low-power modes that help conserve energy when the device is idle or performing non-time-critical tasks. This makes it an excellent choice for battery-powered applications.

 

8. Can I use external components like crystals or oscillators with the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

Yes, the MC68HC908QY4CDT supports both internal and external clock sources. You can connect an external crystal or oscillator to the XTAL1 and XTAL2 pins to achieve a more stable and precise clock signal, which can be useful in applications requiring high-frequency operations.

 

9. How many I/O pins are available on the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT has multiple I/O pins, with Port A, Port B, and Port C providing a total of 24 general-purpose I/O pins. These pins can be used for various functions like input/output, PWM, or interfacing with other peripherals.

 

10. Is the MC68HC908QY4CDT suitable for use in medical devices?

Yes, the MC68HC908QY4CDT can be used in medical devices like portable diagnostic tools and other battery-powered devices. Its low power consumption and reliable performance make it a good fit for medical applications that require long battery life and precise control.

 

11. How do I program the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT can be programmed using various methods, including in-circuit programming (ICP) or by using a dedicated programmer interface. You can write and compile code using standard development environments like CodeWarrior or Keil, then flash the code to the microcontroller.

 

12. What programming languages can be used with the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

You can use C or assembly language to program the MC68HC908QY4CDT. C is the most common language for embedded system development, providing a good balance between low-level control and ease of use.

 

13. How do I reset the MC68HC908QY4CDT?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT can be reset using the RESET pin. When a logic low signal is applied to this pin, the microcontroller will restart its execution from the beginning, which can be useful after power-up or in case of system failures.

 

14. What are the main applications of the MC68HC908QY4CDT in consumer electronics?

In consumer electronics, the MC68HC908QY4CDT is commonly used in products such as remote controls, toys, smart home devices, and portable electronic gadgets due to its low cost, small size, and efficiency.

 

15. Can I interface the MC68HC908QY4CDT with external sensors?

Yes, the MC68HC908QY4CDT is well-suited for interfacing with external sensors. You can use its ADC for reading analog sensor outputs, while its digital I/O pins can be used for interfacing with digital sensors and devices.

 

16. How reliable is the MC68HC908QY4CDT for industrial applications?

The MC68HC908QY4CDT is designed to be highly reliable, with its wide operating temperature range and robust performance. It is suitable for industrial environments where conditions may be harsh, including temperature extremes and electrical noise.

 

 

Written by Icey Ye from AIChipLink.

 

AIChipLink, one of the fastest-growing global independent electronic component distributors in the world, offers millions of products from thousands of manufacturers. Whether you need assistance finding the right part or electronic components manufacturers for your design, you can contact us via phone, chat or e-mail. Our support team will answer your inquiries within 24 hours. 

 

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general information and reference purposes only. The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the author of this article do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of AIChipLink or official policies of AIChipLink.