MC908AP32CBE - 8-Bit HC08 MCU 32KB Flash 8MHz 42-PDIP | NXP
MPN: MC908AP32CBE ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.5 | $9.50 |
| 10 | $8.55 | $85.50 |
| 100 | $7.6 | $760.00 |
| 500 | $6.65 | $3,325.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.7 | $5,700.00 |
MC908AP32CBE Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU, non-volatile program memory (Flash or ROM), volatile working memory (RAM), and a range of integrated peripherals such as ADC, timers, communication interfaces, and general-purpose I/O. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, the MC908AP32CBE sits at: microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> HC08 family -> Flash-based MCU -> mixed-signal embedded controller. The HC08 architecture succeeds the earlier HC05 core with improved addressing modes, higher code density, and an enhanced instruction set designed for C compilers and structured assembly.
Key features of the MC908AP32CBE include 30 general-purpose I/O lines, an internal oscillator that eliminates external clock components, a 10-bit analog-to-digital converter for sensor interfacing, and Flash memory that supports in-application reprogramming via a background debug mode. The 42-pin PDIP package is intended for development, prototyping, and through-hole industrial designs where socketed replacement or hand rework is desirable.
Technically, the MC908AP32CBE uses a Freescale/NXP-developed CISC core with a 16-bit stack pointer and an enhanced HC08 instruction set. The integrated peripherals are memory-mapped and accessed through a uniform bus architecture, simplifying firmware bring-up. Internal Flash supports in-circuit programming, enabling field firmware updates without removing the device from the application board.
Typical applications include industrial control modules, appliance controllers, automotive body electronics, HVAC thermostats, sensor signal conditioning front-ends, and consumer white-goods main boards. Designers value the HC08 family for its deterministic interrupt latency, mature toolchain support (CodeWarrior, Cosmic, IAR), and a wide portfolio of derivatives that share peripheral and instruction-set compatibility.
When designing with the MC908AP32CBE, ensure the supply rails (3.3 V or 5 V operation) and decoupling network follow the manufacturer reference design. The internal oscillator should be validated against timing-critical peripherals such as UART, and an external crystal may be substituted if greater frequency accuracy is required for asynchronous communications.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, datasheet cross-references, and engineering application guidance not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, providing a single decision-ready view for embedded engineers selecting an 8-bit MCU for through-hole designs.
Drop-in alternatives for MC908AP32CBE — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with MC908AP32CBE (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, RAM Size, Package / Case, Peripherals, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MC908AP32CFBER
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC908AP32CFBE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →MC908AP64CBE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC68HC908AP32CB
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$5.6 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC908AP16CBE
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$4.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC908AP32CBE Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Family | M68HC08 (HC08) |
| Core | HC08 CISC 8-bit |
| Program Memory Size | 32 KB (32K x 8) Flash |
| RAM Size | 2 KB (2K x 8) |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 8 MHz (internal bus) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 30 |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit |
| Package / Case | 42-SDIP (0.600 in / 15.24 mm) |
| Oscillator Type | Internal |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V / 5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Packaging | Tube |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead Free | Yes |
MC908AP32CBE Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | IRQ — External interrupt request input |
| Pin 2 | TCLK — Timer clock input |
| Pin 3 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 4 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 5 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / external clock |
| Pin 6 | OSC2 — Oscillator output |
| Pin 7 | RST — Reset input (active low) |
| Pin 8 | PTA0 — Port A bit 0 / ADC channel |
| Pin 9 | PTA1 — Port A bit 1 / ADC channel |
| Pin 10 | PTA2 — Port A bit 2 / ADC channel |
| Pin 11 | PTA3 — Port A bit 3 / ADC channel |
| Pin 12 | PTA4 — Port A bit 4 / ADC channel |
| Pin 13 | PTA5 — Port A bit 5 / ADC channel |
| Pin 14 | PTA6 — Port A bit 6 / ADC channel |
| Pin 15 | PTA7 — Port A bit 7 / ADC channel |
| Pin 16 | PTB0 — Port B bit 0 |
| Pin 17 | PTB1 — Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 18 | PTB2 — Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 19 | PTB3 — Port B bit 3 |
| Pin 20 | PTB4 — Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 21 | PTB5 — Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 22 | PTB6 — Port B bit 6 |
| Pin 23 | PTB7 — Port B bit 7 |
| Pin 24 | PTC0 — Port C bit 0 |
| Pin 25 | PTC1 — Port C bit 1 |
| Pin 26 | PTC2 — Port C bit 2 |
| Pin 27 | PTC3 — Port C bit 3 |
| Pin 28 | PTC4 — Port C bit 4 |
| Pin 29 | PTC5 — Port C bit 5 |
| Pin 30 | PTC6 — Port C bit 6 |
| Pin 31 | PTC7 — Port C bit 7 |
| Pin 32 | PTD0 — Port D bit 0 / SPI / SCI |
| Pin 33 | PTD1 — Port D bit 1 / SPI / SCI |
| Pin 34 | PTD2 — Port D bit 2 / SPI / SCI |
| Pin 35 | PTD3 — Port D bit 3 / SPI / SCI |
| Pin 36 | PTD4 — Port D bit 4 / SCI |
| Pin 37 | PTD5 — Port D bit 5 / SCI |
| Pin 38 | PTD6 — Port D bit 6 |
| Pin 39 | PTD7 — Port D bit 7 |
| Pin 40 | BKGD — Background debug mode pin |
| Pin 41 | VDDAD — ADC supply voltage |
| Pin 42 | VSSAD — ADC ground reference |
Typical Applications
MC908AP32CBE is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Module, Appliance Controller Board, Automotive Body Electronics, HVAC Thermostat and Sensor Front-End, Consumer White Goods Main Board, Educational and Development Board Target.
Industrial Control Module
The MC908AP32CBE fits industrial control modules where its 32 KB Flash and 8 MHz HC08 core deliver deterministic interrupt handling for PLC-style logic, motor drive sequencing, and process variable monitoring. The 30 GPIO pins drive relays, optocouplers, and indicator LEDs directly, while the 10-bit ADC reads 4-20 mA loop sensors through a shunt resistor. Designers value the 42-pin PDIP through-hole package for field-replaceable modules and rugged connector-based assemblies. Compared with switching to an S08 or ARM Cortex-M0+ device, the CBE retains compatibility with legacy HC08 firmware toolchains (CodeWarrior, Cosmic, IAR), reducing re-validation cost for long-lifecycle industrial products.
Recommended
Appliance Controller Board
The MC908AP32CBE serves appliance controllers (washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, HVAC thermostats) where its 8 MHz HC08 core, 10-bit ADC, and 30 GPIO lines drive user interfaces, sensor arrays, and triac/relay outputs. The 32 KB Flash accommodates state-machine firmware for user menus and safety interlocks, while 2 KB RAM supports display buffers and key-debounce tables. The 42-pin PDIP package suits wave-soldered production lines and through-hole field service. Compared with migrating to a QFN-packaged S08, the CBE avoids re-tooling through-hole boards and preserves backward firmware compatibility across multi-decade product families.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The MC908AP32CBE integrates into automotive body controllers (window lift, mirror adjust, seat control, lighting modules) where its HC08 core's deterministic response and 10-bit ADC handle switch debouncing, position feedback, and lamp current sensing. The 30 GPIO lines interface with relay drivers and LIN/CAN transceivers via external logic. Designers select the C variant (-40 C to +85 C) for underhood-adjacent modules. Compared with switching to a QFP-packaged automotive MCU, the through-hole PDIP form factor simplifies bench programming and rework, while the HC08 instruction set remains compatible with mature in-house automotive firmware libraries.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat and Sensor Front-End
The MC908AP32CBE powers HVAC thermostat and sensor front-end designs where its 10-bit ADC reads thermistor, humidity sensor, and pressure transducer signals while 30 GPIO pins drive tri-color LEDs, character LCDs, and relay outputs. The 32 KB Flash stores scheduling algorithms and PID control loops, while 2 KB RAM holds averaging buffers. The 42-pin PDIP package suits wall-mount enclosures with through-hole terminal blocks. Compared with integrating a smart thermostat SoC, the standalone CBE provides design flexibility for custom user interfaces and supports low-cost BOMs typical of residential HVAC retrofits.
Recommended
Consumer White Goods Main Board
The MC908AP32CBE drives consumer white-goods main boards (refrigerators, microwave ovens, rice cookers) where the 8 MHz HC08 core executes motor control PWM, user input scanning, and display driving. The 10-bit ADC monitors temperature probes and supply current, while the 32 KB Flash accommodates multi-language UI firmware. The through-hole PDIP package survives high-vibration compressor environments and simplifies warranty repair. Compared with newer QFN-packaged MCUs, the CBE retains cost advantages for high-volume white goods and remains in active distributor stock for legacy production lines.
Recommended
Educational and Development Board Target
The MC908AP32CBE is a strong choice for educational microcontroller courses and development kits where its 42-pin PDIP package fits standard 0.1 inch breadboard sockets and ZIF programming adapters. The HC08 instruction set teaches fundamental CISC concepts (single-byte opcodes, accumulator-based addressing) without overwhelming novice programmers. The 32 KB Flash accommodates student projects while 30 GPIO lines interface with classroom peripherals (LEDs, switches, sensors). Compared with surface-mount dev boards, the through-hole PDIP form factor allows students to swap chips by hand and reuse chips across multiple lab exercises.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MC908AP32CBE — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MC908AP32CFBER | MC908AP32CFBE | MC908AP64CBE | MC68HC908AP32CB | MC908AP16CBE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Package | 42-PDIP (0.600 in / 15.24 mm) | 42-PDIP - same | 42-PDIP - same | 42-PDIP - same | 42-PDIP - same | 42-PDIP - same |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 32 KB | 32 KB | 32 KB | 64 KB | 32 KB | 16 KB |
| RAM Size | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 1 KB |
| CPU Clock | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz |
| Core | HC08 CISC 8-bit | HC08 CISC 8-bit | HC08 CISC 8-bit | HC08 CISC 8-bit | HC08 CISC 8-bit | HC08 CISC 8-bit |
| Number of I/O | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Through-hole PDIP package for prototyping and field service (vs MC908AP32CFBE)
- Drop-in Flash upgrade path within same family (vs MC908AP64CBE)
- Pin-compatible lower-Flash variant for cost reduction (vs MC908AP16CBE)
Design Notes
The MC908AP32CBE supports 3.3 V and 5 V operation. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to each VDD/VSS pin pair, with a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor at the board-level supply input. For ADC accuracy, add a dedicated 100 nF decoupling cap on VDDAD/VSSAD to isolate analog and digital supply domains. Verify the supply rise time is slower than the manufacturer-specified maximum to avoid spurious reset events.
The internal oscillator provides adequate timing for most UART baud rates at 8 MHz bus frequency but may not meet the +-2% accuracy required for high-speed asynchronous communications. If your design uses UART above 19.2 kbaud or interfaces with RS-485 transceivers, add an external crystal on OSC1/OSC2. The BKGD pin (pin 40) must be pulled high through a pull-up resistor during reset to enter normal operating mode; leaving it floating can result in unpredictable start-up behavior.
Route the ADC analog input traces away from digital switching lines to minimize coupling noise. Use a ground plane under the device to reduce EMI susceptibility. The 42-pin PDIP footprint accepts standard 2.54 mm pin headers, allowing socket-based programming and bench testing without soldering the MCU directly. Group related peripheral pins (SPI/SCI, timer channels, ADC inputs) together to simplify PCB routing and shorten trace lengths.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free compliance confirmed per NXP product page and DigiKey listing. AEC-Q100 qualification is not applicable for standard HC08 family; automotive-grade variants are available in different part numbers. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified data.