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  • MC908QY4ACDWE: A Cost-Effective 8-Bit MCU Solution for Resource-Constrained Control Applications

    The MC908QY4ACDWE is an 8-bit microcontroller from the HC08Q series by NXP (formerly Freescale), positioned for cost-sensitive, space-constrained general-purpose control applications. Although this device has entered the end-of-life phase (Obsolete / Last Time Buy), it remains relevant for maintenance, legacy system replacements, and cost-driven volume products.

    Product Overview

    The MC908QY4ACDWE belongs to the enhanced HC08 microcontroller family, based on the M68HC08 CISC architecture (Von Neumann structure). It integrates on-chip Flash memory and SRAM, along with fundamental peripherals such as ADC, timers, and PWM. This device is suitable for simple embedded controllers, sensor interfaces, basic motor drivers, and low-throughput IoT edge nodes.

    It is available in a 16-pin SOIC package (7.50 mm width, 1.27 mm pitch) and operates over a wide voltage range with an industrial temperature rating.

    Key Specifications

    Parameter

    Specification

    Core Architecture

    HC08Q Family, 8-bit CISC core

    Flash Memory

    4 KB

    SRAM

    128 bytes (128 × 8-bit)

    Max Clock Frequency

    8 MHz

    ADC

    6-channel, 10-bit resolution

    GPIO Count

    13 I/O pins

    Timer/PWM

    16-bit timer, 2 channels (IC/OC/PWM)

    Operating Voltage

    2.7 V – 5.5 V

    Temperature Range

    –40°C to +85°C (industrial grade)

    Serial Interface

    SCI UART (asynchronous)

    Package Type

    SOIC-16 (Surface-mount)

    Lifecycle Status

    Obsolete / Last Time Buy

    Application Advantages and Suitability

    Strengths

    • Cost-effective resource set:Though limited in memory and speed, it’s sufficient for basic use cases like sensor acquisition, user interface control, and low-power actuation.
    • Wide operating voltage:Supports 2.7 V to 5.5 V, compatible with various power rails.
    • Industrial temperature grade:Suitable for moderately demanding environments.
    • Essential peripherals:Equipped with ADC, timers/PWM, and SCI for basic embedded control.

    Limitations

    • Small memory size:Unsuitable for complex algorithms, high variable count, or graphical interfaces.
    • Low processing speed:8 MHz max clock limits sampling rates and PWM resolution.
    • Obsolete status:Long-term availability and support risk for new designs.
    • Peripheral constraints:Limited I/O and peripheral expansion due to small pin count.

    Lifecycle Status and Replacement Considerations

    Per official documentation, MC908QY4ACDWE is marked as Obsolete / Last Time Buy.

    For new projects or long-term support planning, consider the following replacement strategies:

    Replacement Approach

    Recommended Features

    Same-tier 8-bit MCUs

    ≥4 KB Flash, ≥10-bit ADC, 3–5.5 V supply range

    Performance upgrade

    Higher frequency (≥16 MHz), more GPIOs, better peripherals

    Modern architecture

    ARM Cortex-M based MCUs for ecosystem support and longevity

    Typical Application Scenarios

    Application Domain

    Use Case Examples

    Instrumentation & Control Panels

    LED indicators, button inputs, simple displays

    Consumer/Home Appliances

    Basic fan control, thermostats, timers

    Educational/Training Boards

    MCU programming and peripheral labs

    Legacy System Maintenance

    HC08-based board replacement or firmware patching

    Design and Integration Notes

    • Clock & frequency:8 MHz clock is suitable for basic control but should be evaluated for latency-sensitive ADC/PWM applications.
    • Power supply:Ensure clean and stable supply between 2.7–5.5 V to reduce clock and ADC noise errors.
    • Pin usage planning: SOIC-16 package offers limited I/O; careful mapping of shared pins is critical for compact designs.
    • Environmental protection: For industrial deployment, apply measures against thermal drift, vibration, and humidity. Use thermal pads or temperature sensors if needed.

    The MC908QY4ACDWE is a low-cost, resource-conscious 8-bit MCU within the HC08Q family, well-suited for applications that demand simple analog input handling and basic I/O control. While it offers flexibility in low-complexity designs, its end-of-life status requires caution for new developments, and engineers are advised to plan migration paths or drop-in replacements to ensure design continuity.

    To explore more component specifications, packaging models, and inventory availability, please visit the WIN SOURCE official website.

    © 2025 Win Source Electronics. All rights reserved. This content is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Win Source Electronics.

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