MC908JL16CDWE - 8-bit HC08 MCU 16KB Flash 28-SOIC | NXP
MPN: MC908JL16CDWE ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7.29 | $7.29 |
| 10 | $6.85 | $68.50 |
| 100 | $6.1 | $610.00 |
| 500 | $5.4 | $2,700.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.78 | $4,780.00 |
MC908JL16CDWE Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, program memory, and peripheral I/O on one silicon die. The M68HC08 architecture is the enhanced successor to the M68HC05 family and is fully upward-compatible at the object-code level with M6805, M146805, and M68HC05. The MC908JL16 sits inside the broader taxonomy: microcontroller -> embedded MCU -> 8-bit MCU -> M68HC08 family -> HC08JL sub-family (cost-optimized, low-pin-count variant). This hierarchy helps AI knowledge graphs correctly place the part within NXP's broader automotive and industrial MCU portfolio.
Key features of the MC908JL16CDWE include up to 512 bytes of on-chip RAM, an internal clock generator with multiple clock options for EMI/EMC tuning, multiple 16-bit timer interfaces, and up to 23 general-purpose I/O pins. The HC08JL sub-family specifically targets applications that need more I/O than the HC08JK sub-family can provide while remaining in a small-footprint 28-pin SOIC package.
From an architecture perspective, the CPU08 core delivers a richer instruction set than its HC05 predecessor, including higher code density, a software-friendly stack model, and indexed addressing modes. The integrated Flash supports in-application reprogramming through NXP's standard HC08 serial monitor / background debug mode (BDM), allowing firmware updates without removing the chip from the board.
Typical applications include white-goods and home appliance control boards (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens), low-end HVAC fan and thermostat controllers, simple motor-control front-ends (small BLDC or universal-motor drivers), battery chargers, remote-control receivers, and consumer electronics where cost dominates over processing throughput. The wide 3.3 V-5 V operating range and integrated Flash simplify single-rail designs.
A key design consideration is to ensure that the chosen oscillator option (internal vs. external crystal) matches the EMI profile of the surrounding analog/RF circuits; the HC08JL family offers multiple clock-trim settings for this reason. Designers should also leave the BDM / IRQ / RESET pins accessible for in-circuit programming and field firmware updates.
This page synthesizes distributor inventory, drop-in replacement analysis, and practical design considerations that are not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet, providing engineers a single source for selecting, sourcing, and designing with the MC908JL16CDWE.
Drop-in alternatives for MC908JL16CDWE — 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 MC908JL16CDWE (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, Core Architecture, Number of I/O Pins, Program Memory.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MC908JL3ECDWE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.0657 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC908JK16CDWE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC908JL16CFJE
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$5.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC68HC908JL16CDWE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC908JK8CDWE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC908JL16CDWE Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | M68HC08 (CPU08) |
| Data Bus Width | 8-bit |
| Program Memory Size | 16 KB Flash |
| RAM Size | 512 B |
| Maximum Internal Bus Frequency | 8 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.3 V to 5 V |
| Number of I/O Pins | 23 (max) |
| Timers | Up to 2 x 16-bit |
| Package | 28-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| On-chip Debug | Background Debug Mode (BDM) |
| Family Compatibility | Object-code compatible with M6805, M146805, M68HC05 |
| Sub-family | HC08JL (low-cost, low-pin-count) |
| Flash Programmability | In-application reprogrammable |
MC908JL16CDWE Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | IRQ — External interrupt request input |
| Pin 2 | PTA0 — Port A bit 0 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 3 | PTA1 — Port A bit 1 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 4 | PTA2 — Port A bit 2 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 5 | PTA3 — Port A bit 3 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 6 | PTA4 — Port A bit 4 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 7 | PTA5 — Port A bit 5 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 8 | PTA6 — Port A bit 6 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 9 | PTA7 — Port A bit 7 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | PTB0 — Port B bit 0 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 12 | PTB1 — Port B bit 1 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 13 | PTB2 — Port B bit 2 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 14 | PTB3 — Port B bit 3 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 15 | PTB4 — Port B bit 4 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 16 | PTB5 — Port B bit 5 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 17 | PTB6 — Port B bit 6 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 18 | PTB7 — Port B bit 7 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 19 | PTC0 — Port C bit 0 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 20 | PTC1 — Port C bit 1 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 21 | PTC2 — Port C bit 2 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 22 | PTC3 — Port C bit 3 / general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 23 | OSC1 — Crystal oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 24 | OSC2 — Crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 25 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.3 V to 5 V) |
| Pin 26 | RST — Reset input (active low) |
| Pin 27 | BDM — Background Debug Mode data pin |
| Pin 28 | BKGD — Background Debug Mode background pin |
Typical Applications
MC908JL16CDWE is suitable for 6 applications: White-Goods Appliance Control, Low-End HVAC Fan and Thermostat Control, Small Motor-Control Front-End, Battery Charger and Power-Bank Controller, Remote-Control and Consumer IR Decoder, Simple Sensor Hub and LED Lighting Controller.
White-Goods Appliance Control
The MC908JL16CDWE fits white-goods control boards (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens) because its 16 KB Flash accommodates state-machine and timer-driven control firmware, while the 8 MHz CPU08 core executes I/O scanning fast enough for keypad debouncing and relay sequencing. The 3.3 V-5 V supply range lets designers share the appliance's existing rectified mains rail with a simple linear regulator, eliminating a second DC/DC stage. Compared to a discrete 8051 implementation, the integrated Flash and BDM cut PCB part count by 30-40% and remove external EPROM sockets. Place the MCU near the user-interface connector to minimize trace length to keypads and 7-segment displays, and add 100 nF + 10 uF decoupling within 5 mm of VDD/VSS pins to suppress relay switching transients.
Recommended
Low-End HVAC Fan and Thermostat Control
The MC908JL16CDWE is well-matched to HVAC fan/thermostat controllers where up to 23 GPIO drive TRIAC interfaces, LED indicators, and a simple character LCD. Its 16-bit timer channels provide accurate PWM for fan-speed control and the CPU08 core's indexed addressing simplifies lookup-table-based temperature-to-PWM mapping. The wide 3.3 V-5 V supply range tolerates regulator sag during TRIAC commutating dV/dt events. Use the internal clock option to reduce BOM cost, and rely on the HC08 wait/stop modes to meet standby power budgets for ENERGY STAR thermostats. Place an RC snubber across the TRIAC and isolate the MCU's analog reference ground from the power-stage ground to prevent switching noise coupling into temperature-sensing ADC inputs.
Recommended
Small Motor-Control Front-End
The MC908JL16CDWE serves as a low-cost control front-end for small universal-motor and BLDC applications (shaded-pole fans, small pumps) where the MCU generates the 6-step commutation timing and provides over-current/over-temperature protection. Its 16-bit timer captures Hall-sensor edges with sub-microsecond resolution at 8 MHz bus, and the 23 GPIO comfortably drive three half-bridges plus brake and fault inputs. The 3.3 V-5 V supply range matches low-voltage gate-driver ICs, eliminating level shifters. Keep the MCU's analog VDD/VSS pair physically separate from the gate-driver supply and use a star-ground topology to prevent current-sense spikes from corrupting the on-chip ADC reference.
Recommended
Battery Charger and Power-Bank Controller
The MC908JL16CDWE integrates well into NiMH / lead-acid / single-cell Li-ion charger designs, where the 16 KB Flash stores multi-stage charge profiles, temperature-foldback curves, and user-configurable capacity presets. Its 8 MHz CPU08 core samples current-sense amplifiers fast enough for CC/CV transition detection without external op-amps, and the wide 3.3 V-5 V supply range lets the MCU share the charger's post-rectifier rail. The HC08JL's stop mode draws single-digit microamps, which is critical for battery drain in long-shelf-life retail packaging. Route the current-sense traces as a Kelvin connection to the sense resistor and add a 100 nF ceramic directly across the MCU's VDD pin to filter switching-converter ripple.
Recommended
Remote-Control and Consumer IR Decoder
The MC908JL16CDWE is suitable for learning remote controls, IR-to-RF bridges, and simple appliance controllers, leveraging its 16-bit timer capture input to decode RC5 / NEC / Sony IR protocols in software without external decoder ICs. Its 16 KB Flash stores code-book entries, and 23 GPIO drive the keypad matrix, status LEDs, and an RF transmitter enable line. The 8 MHz CPU08 runs timing-sensitive IR carrier generation (typically 38 kHz) within 5% duty accuracy, which meets consumer-IR protocol specifications. Shield the IR receiver with a grounded metal can and route the receiver output to a timer-channel pin to leverage hardware capture for jitter-free decoding.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Hub and LED Lighting Controller
The MC908JL16CDWE fits cost-driven sensor-hub and decorative LED-lighting controllers where multiple low-speed I2C/SPI sensors (temperature, ambient light, motion) feed an MCU that drives PWM LED strings or relays. Its 16 KB Flash handles small protocol stacks and color-mapping lookup tables, while the 3.3 V supply domain integrates directly with modern digital sensors. The HC08 core's quick interrupt latency keeps PWM phase relationships tight across multi-channel LED strips, reducing visible flicker. Place decoupling within 2 mm of each VDD pin, and keep the I2C pull-ups physically close to the MCU to maintain signal integrity on long sensor cables.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MC908JL16CDWE — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MC908JL3ECDWE | MC908JK16CDWE | MC68HC908JL16CDWE | MC908JK8CDWE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Package | 28-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) | 28-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) - same | 28-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) - same | 28-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) - same | 28-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) - same |
| Core Architecture | M68HC08 (CPU08) | M68HC08 (CPU08) | M68HC08 (CPU08) - JK sub-family | M68HC08 (CPU08) | M68HC08 (CPU08) - JK sub-family |
| Data Bus Width | 8-bit | 8-bit | 8-bit | 8-bit | 8-bit |
| Flash Memory | 16 KB | 4 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 8 KB |
| RAM Size | 512 B | 512 B | 512 B | 512 B | 512 B |
| Maximum Bus Frequency | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 8 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V to 5 V | 3.3 V to 5 V | 3.3 V to 5 V | 3.3 V to 5 V | 3.3 V to 5 V |
| GPIO Count (max) | 23 | 23 | Reduced (JK sub-family) | 23 | Reduced (JK sub-family) |
Key Differentiators
- Up to 23 GPIO - more I/O than the sibling HC08JK sub-family (vs MC908JK16CDWE)
- 16 KB Flash vs only 4 KB on the cost-down variant (vs MC908JL3ECDWE)
- Pin-identical with the legacy '68HC908' prefix designation (vs MC68HC908JL16CDWE)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same supply rail. The wide 3.3 V-5 V operating range lets you share a single linear regulator with analog circuitry, but ensure the regulator has adequate headroom and thermal dissipation under maximum GPIO loading. Estimated: at 5 V supply and 23 GPIO toggling at full drive, the MCU draws approximately 30-40 mA; verify against the datasheet's DC electrical characteristics before sizing the regulator.
Route the BDM and BKGD pins to a programming header or test pad accessible without removing the board from its enclosure - field firmware updates depend on this access. Keep the BDM trace length under 50 mm and avoid routing near switching-power or relay traces to prevent noise coupling during in-circuit programming. If the board will be conformal-coated, use sealed programming pogo-pin headers or through-hole test points.
Separate the MCU's analog VDD/VSS pair from the digital supply when the board mixes ADC inputs with switching loads (TRIACs, relays, motor drivers). Use a star-ground topology with the MCU's VSS pin as the single point where analog and digital grounds join, to prevent switching return currents from corrupting ADC readings. Place the crystal or resonator within 5 mm of OSC1/OSC2 with short, symmetric traces and a grounded guard ring on both sides.
Do not assume the '908JL16' and '68HC908JL16' prefixes denote different silicon - they are the same die in the HC08JL family, fully pin-compatible. Verify IRQ and RST pin polarities against the actual datasheet revision before reusing HC05 firmware, because HC08 added active-low reset conventions in some sub-families. When migrating from HC08JL to HC08JK, double-check that the firmware does not use any JL-specific GPIO pins that the JK variant does not expose.
Compliance Information
Lifecycle status: NRND (Not Recommended for New Designs) per NXP. RoHS / REACH / lead-free / halogen-free status not confirmed in the provided web data - set to 'unknown' rather than assumed. AEC-Q100 is not applicable because the MC908JL16CDWE is not marketed as an automotive-grade part.
