MC68020CEH16E - 32-Bit M68020 MPU, 16.67MHz | NXP 132-PQFP
MPN: MC68020CEH16E ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $70.44 | $70.44 |
| 10 | $65.2 | $652.00 |
| 50 | $60.1 | $3,005.00 |
| 100 | $55.8 | $5,580.00 |
| 250 | $51.4 | $12,850.00 |
MC68020CEH16E Overview
What is a CISC MPU? A CISC microprocessor (Complex Instruction Set Computer) is a processor architecture that exposes a rich, variable-length instruction set optimized for high-level language constructs and minimal code size. The MC68020 occupies the hypernym path microprocessor -> CISC processor -> 32-bit MPU -> M680x0 family -> M68K application context. It served as the architectural backbone for the Apple Macintosh II series, Sun-3 workstations, HP 9000/300 and 9000/400 systems, early NeXT computers, and embedded military/aerospace platforms.
Key features include a 32-bit non-multiplexed external data bus with 32-bit address bus, dynamic bus sizing for 8/16/32-bit peripherals, on-chip 256-byte instruction cache, an integrated MMU with 4-Kbyte entries, hardware multiply and divide (32x32 in 40 cycles typical), seven-level interrupt structure with vectored autovector support, and a coprocessor interface for the MC68881/MC68882 floating-point units. The device operates from a single 5 V supply and supports industrial temperature grades.
The 132-pin PQFP package provides a generous thermal envelope for legacy embedded systems. Designers must provide external clock generation (typically a 16.67 MHz fundamental-mode TTL oscillator) and bus-termination networks. Modern embedded designs migrate to ColdFire MCF5208 or MPC5xx family successors; the MC68020CEH16E remains in service for avionics retrofits, industrial PLCs, and long-lifecycle defense electronics where M68K software re-validation is cost-prohibitive.
Typical applications include avionics flight-control retrofits, legacy UNIX workstation mainboards, VMEbus single-board computers, industrial CNC controllers, and military communications equipment. Its MMU and full 32-bit architecture made it the first mainstream MPU capable of running virtual-memory UNIX operating systems.
Drop-in alternatives for MC68020CEH16E — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MC68020CEH16E
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$51.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC68030CEH16E
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC68SEC000AEI16
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC68020CEH16E Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 32-Bit CISC Microprocessor (MPU) |
| Processor Family | M680x0 (M68K) |
| Core Architecture | MC68020 |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| Data Bus Width | 32-bit (dynamic bus sizing 8/16/32) |
| Address Bus Width | 32-bit |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 16.67 MHz |
| Instruction Cache | 256 bytes on-chip |
| MMU | Yes, integrated with 4-Kbyte TLB |
| Operating Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Package | 132-pin PQFP (QFP-132, 46x46 mm, bumpered) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Coprocessor Interface | Yes (MC68881/MC68882 FPU) |
| Interrupt Levels | 7 (with vectored autovector) |
| RoHS Status | RoHS Compliant |
| Lead-Free Status | Lead Free |
MC68020CEH16E 132-pin pqfp (qfp-132, 46x46 mm, bumpered) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for MC68020CEH16E (132-pin pqfp (qfp-132, 46x46 mm, bumpered) package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for MC68020CEH16E.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
MC68020CEH16E is suitable for 6 applications: Avionics Flight-Control Retrofits, VMEbus Single-Board Computers, Legacy UNIX Workstation Mainboards, Industrial CNC Controllers, Military Communications Equipment, Embedded Real-Time Control.
Avionics Flight-Control Retrofits
The MC68020CEH16E is widely deployed in legacy military and commercial avionics flight-control computers where the original M68K software base is certified and re-validation cost dominates the design budget. Its integrated MMU with 4-Kbyte TLB enables virtual-memory partitioning required by DO-178C DAL-B software, while the 16.67 MHz clock provides sufficient throughput for sensor fusion and actuator-loop control at 50-100 Hz update rates. Drop-in replacement of failed modules is critical, so the bumpered PQFP-132 package with its robust mechanical lead-frame is favored over fine-pitch alternatives.
Recommended
VMEbus Single-Board Computers
The MC68020CEH16E powered the first generation of commercial VMEbus single-board computers (SBCs) used in industrial automation, scientific instrumentation, and defense telemetry. Its 32-bit non-multiplexed address/data bus with dynamic bus sizing natively interfaces VMEbus D16/D32 master controllers, while the integrated MMU allowed UNIX System V and VxWorks to run multi-process control software on a 16.67 MHz core. VME ecosystems remain supported because the installed base of M68K VME systems exceeds one million units worldwide.
Recommended
Legacy UNIX Workstation Mainboards
The MC68020CEH16E drove the mainboards of Sun-3/50, Sun-3/60, HP 9000/360, and early NeXT workstation lines, where the integrated MMU was the minimum required to run SunOS, HP-UX, and NeXTSTEP virtual-memory UNIX variants. At 16.67 MHz with the MC68881 FPU attached, the platform delivered 1-2 MIPS integer throughput plus 0.5 MFLOPS double-precision, sufficient for early 1980s CAD, document preparation, and compiler workloads. Restorers and museum-grade retrocomputing projects source new-old-stock MC68020CEH16E silicon through distributors like Rochester Electronics.
Recommended
Industrial CNC Controllers
The MC68020CEH16E was the CPU in 1980s-vintage industrial CNC controllers from Allen-Bradley, Fanuc, Siemens, and Heidenhain, where its deterministic interrupt structure (7 IPL levels with vectored autovector) and 32-bit ALU suited real-time motion-control loops. The 256-byte on-chip instruction cache reduced bus contention on the shared machine-tool backplane, while dynamic bus sizing allowed mixed 8-bit serial I/O and 32-bit motion-DAC peripherals on the same address space. Long-lifecycle CNC platforms continue to demand factory-original or drop-in compatible silicon for 30+ year service contracts.
Recommended
Military Communications Equipment
The MC68020CEH16E powers tactical radio, signal-intelligence, and electronic-warfare systems deployed in the 1980s-1990s and still in service today. Its radiation-tolerant variants (specified via the 'CEH' industrial grade and screened equivalents) withstand MIL-STD-810 environmental stress, and the integrated MMU allows partitioned secure/red-black memory domains required for cryptographic cross-domain solutions. The bumpered PQFP-132 mechanical package provides lead-frame compliance for shock/vibration profiles encountered in vehicular and airborne platforms.
Recommended
Embedded Real-Time Control
Beyond MME-class applications, the MC68020CEH16E serves in custom real-time control platforms where M68K assembly legacy, low-cost M68K toolchains, and proven long-term silicon availability outweigh the preference for newer ColdFire or ARM cores. The device's seven-level prioritized interrupt structure with vectored autovector and hardware multiply/divide (32x32 in 40 cycles typical) make it suited to motor-control, power-electronics, and process-control applications. Designers in long-lifecycle defense programs may still select the MC68020CEH16E to align with existing firmware baselines and certifications.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MC68020CEH16E — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MC68020CEH16E | MC68030CEH16E | MC68SEC000AEI16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 132-PQFP (QFP-132, 46x46 mm, bumpered) | 132-PQFP (QFP-132, 46x46 mm) - same | 132-PQFP (QFP-132, 46x46 mm) - same | 68-PLCC / 64-PQFP (NOT same package, software-ISA-compatible only) |
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Core / Architecture | MC68020 (M680x0, CISC, 32-bit) | MC68020 (M680x0, CISC, 32-bit) | MC68030 (M680x0, CISC, 32-bit) | MC68SEC000 (M680x0, CISC, 32-bit, embedded variant) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 16.67 MHz | 16.67 MHz | 16.67 MHz | 16 MHz |
| On-chip Instruction Cache | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes I-cache + 256 bytes D-cache | 256 bytes (or none depending on variant) |
| MMU / TLB | Integrated, 4-Kbyte TLB | Integrated, 4-Kbyte TLB | Integrated, dual 4-Kbyte TLB | No MMU (separate MC68851 required) |
| Data Bus Width | 32-bit (dynamic 8/16/32) | 32-bit (dynamic 8/16/32) | 32-bit (dynamic 8/16/32) + burst mode | 32-bit (dynamic 8/16/32) |
| Operating Supply Voltage | 5 V | 5 V | 5 V | 3.3 V or 5 V (variant dependent) |
| FPU Coprocessor Interface | Yes (MC68881/MC68882) | Yes (MC68881/MC68882) | Yes (MC68881/MC68882) | Yes (MC68881/MC68882) |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND / last-time-buy in many channels | Active (for embedded) |
Key Differentiators
- Pin-compatible upgrade path with integrated dual cache (vs MC68030CEH16E)
- First M68K with integrated MMU on-chip (vs MC68SEC000AEI16)
- Rochester Electronics authorized stock for legacy longevity (vs MC68030CEH16E)
Design Notes
The MC68020CEH16E requires a single 5 V Vcc rail with tight tolerance (5 V +/- 5%) and bulk decoupling of at least 22 uF tantalum + 0.1 uF ceramic per Vcc pin pair. The device does not have internal power management; clock-stop power-down must be implemented externally. Estimated: typical supply current is approximately 200-300 mA at 16.67 MHz with all outputs switching, so a 1.5 A linear regulator with adequate heatsinking is recommended. Power-supply sequencing is not required, but RESET must remain asserted until Vcc stabilizes for at least 100 ms.
At a 16.67 MHz clock with CMOS internal logic, the MC68020CEH16E typically dissipates 1.0-1.5 W in the PQFP-132 package. Estimated: theta_JA for the 132-pin PQFP on a 4-layer board with copper pour is approximately 30-40 C/W, yielding a 30-60 C junction-temperature rise above ambient. The bumpered package corners improve lead-frame compliance but do not improve thermal performance - add a thermal pad on the PCB underside and 4-6 thermal vias to inner copper planes if the application runs at high ambient temperature (e.g., industrial +85 C).
Route the 32-bit address and data buses with matched trace lengths (within +/- 1 cm for the 16.67 MHz speed grade) to avoid skew on AS*, DS*, and R/W* strobes. Place a 33 ohm series damping resistor on each data-bus signal at the MPU end if the bus runs longer than 10 cm to reduce ringing. The CLK pin should be driven by a clock buffer (e.g., 74F04) rather than directly from the oscillator to maintain 50/50 duty cycle and sharp edges. Connect unused inputs (e.g., AVEC*, DSACK0/1*) through 10 kohm pull-ups to Vcc.
Do not confuse the MC68020CEH16E (16.67 MHz PQFP-132) with the MC68SEC000AEI16 (16 MHz PLCC-68) or with the PGA-packaged ceramic versions - the pin counts and PC layouts differ substantially. Do not rely on BERR* for bus-cycle termination without a watchdog timer; long BERR* assertions can hang the MPU. The 256-byte instruction cache must be flushed (via the CPUSH instruction) when self-modifying code is used or when bootstrapping from ROM - a common bug in custom boot loaders.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant and lead-free per distributor listings (DigiKey/Mouser/LCSC). The 'E' suffix in NXP/Motorola part numbers denotes the lead-free and RoHS-compliant lead finish. AEC-Q100 is not applicable to legacy MPU parts; military/aerospace grades are screened separately. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in provided data.
