MC9S12C64VFAE - 16-Bit HCS12 MCU, 64KB Flash, LQFP-48 | NXP
MPN: MC9S12C64VFAE ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.8 | $9.80 |
| 10 | $8.9 | $89.00 |
| 100 | $7.6 | $760.00 |
| 500 | $6.5 | $3,250.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.4 | $5,400.00 |
MC9S12C64VFAE Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (Flash/ROM), working memory (RAM), and a rich set of peripheral interfaces such as timers, ADCs, communication ports, and general-purpose I/O. The HCS12 family sits in the 16-bit microcontroller tier of NXP's automotive product tree: HCS12 CPU -> S12C sub-family -> 16-bit MCU -> automotive microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor. The 16-bit data path gives a meaningful step up from 8-bit MCUs in code density, arithmetic performance, and peripheral integration while keeping peripheral programming simple.
Key features of the MC9S12C64VFAE include 64KB of Flash program memory, 4KB of RAM, 31 general-purpose I/O pins, an on-chip bandgap-based voltage regulator that derives the core VDD from a 2.97V to 5.5V external supply, an integrated phase-locked loop (PLL) for flexible clocking, multiple serial communication interfaces (SCI, SPI), timers, an 8/10-bit ADC, and a CAN 2.0 A/B controller for in-vehicle networking. The device supports background debug mode (BDM) for non-intrusive in-circuit development.
The S12C architecture uses a 16-bit HCS12 core with a Von Neumann bus and a unified memory map, simplifying C-code development with NXP's CodeWarrior and the newer S32 Design Studio toolchains. The on-chip voltage regulator allows operation from a single 5V automotive rail while generating the lower core voltage internally, reducing BOM cost and PCB complexity.
Typical applications include body electronics controllers (door modules, seat controllers, mirror modules), CAN node endpoints in automotive networks, industrial sensor hubs, HVAC controllers, lighting controllers, general-purpose 16-bit control, and appliance control boards that benefit from automotive-grade peripherals such as CAN and a wide supply range.
When designing with the MC9S12C64VFAE, place the four VDD/VSS bulk capacitors specified in the datasheet close to their respective pins to ensure stable regulator operation. Always use the BDM interface for firmware development; the BDM pinout is part of the 48-pin LQFP pinmap and must be reserved for programming/debug access.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives drawn from the same NXP S12C family and other sources, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for MC9S12C64VFAE — 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 MC9S12C64VFAE (same form factor and footprint) — differing in PLL, On-chip Voltage Regulator, Program Memory Size, RAM Size, ADC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MC9S12C64CFAE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC9S12C64MFAE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.7 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12C96CFAE557
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12GC64CFAE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.41 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12C32VFAE16
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$6.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12C64VFAE Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | HCS12 |
| Data Bus Width | 16 bit |
| Program Memory Size | 64 KB Flash |
| RAM Size | 4 KB |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 25 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.97 V to 5.5 V (external); internal Vreg generates core VDD |
| I/O Pins | 31 |
| ADC | 8/10-bit on-chip |
| Communication Interfaces | CAN 2.0 A/B, SCI (UART), SPI |
| Timers | 16-bit Enhanced Capture Timer (ECT) and others (per datasheet) |
| On-chip Voltage Regulator | Yes (bandgap-based) |
| PLL | Yes (phase-locked loop) |
| Debug Interface | Background Debug Mode (BDM) |
| Package | 48-pin LQFP (7x7 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +105C |
MC9S12C64VFAE Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDDX — External power supply (5 V typical, 2.97-5.5 V range) |
| Pin 2 | VSSX — Ground for I/O supply |
| Pin 3 | PP0/KWP0/PWM0 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 4 | PP1/KWP1/PWM1 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 5 | PP2/KWP2/PWM2 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 6 | PP3/KWP3/PWM3 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 7 | PP4/KWP4/PWM4 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 8 | PP5/KWP5/PWM5 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 9 | PP6/KWP6/PWM6 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 10 | PP7/KWP7/PWM7 — GPIO with key wakeup and PWM capability |
| Pin 11 | PT0/IOC0 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 12 | PT1/IOC1 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 13 | PT2/IOC2 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 14 | PT3/IOC3 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 15 | PT4/IOC4 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 16 | PT5/IOC5 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 17 | PT6/IOC6 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 18 | PT7/IOC7 — Timer/GPIO |
| Pin 19 | PAD0/AN0 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 20 | PAD1/AN1 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 21 | PAD2/AN2 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 22 | PAD3/AN3 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 23 | PAD4/AN4 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 24 | PAD5/AN5 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 25 | PAD6/AN6 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 26 | PAD7/AN7 — Port AD with ADC analog input |
| Pin 27 | VDDR — Power supply for digital I/O (regulator input) |
| Pin 28 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 29 | VDD — Internal regulator output (core supply) |
| Pin 30 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 31 | BKGD — Background Debug Mode (BDM) pin |
| Pin 32 | RESET — Reset input (active low) |
| Pin 33 | TEST — Test mode pin (tie to VSS in normal operation) |
| Pin 34 | XCLKS — Oscillator clock select |
| Pin 35 | XTAL — Crystal oscillator input |
| Pin 36 | EXTAL — Crystal oscillator output / external clock input |
| Pin 37 | VSSPLL — PLL ground |
| Pin 38 | VDDPLL — PLL supply |
| Pin 39 | CANRX — CAN receive input |
| Pin 40 | CANTX — CAN transmit output |
| Pin 41 | SCIRXD — SCI (UART) receive input |
| Pin 42 | SCITXD — SCI (UART) transmit output |
| Pin 43 | PS0/MISO — SPI0 master-in slave-out / GPIO |
| Pin 44 | PS1/MOSI — SPI0 master-out slave-in / GPIO |
| Pin 45 | PS2/SCK — SPI0 clock / GPIO |
| Pin 46 | PS3/SS — SPI0 slave select / GPIO |
| Pin 47 | VDDX — External power supply (5 V typical) |
| Pin 48 | VSSX — Ground for I/O supply |
Typical Applications
MC9S12C64VFAE is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Module (BCM), CAN Node Endpoints (Sensor / Actuator Modules), Industrial Sensor Hubs and Controllers, HVAC and Climate Control Units, Lighting Controllers (Interior and Exterior LED), Appliance and White-Goods Control Boards.
Automotive Body Control Module (BCM)
The MC9S12C64VFAE is widely used in body control modules where it drives loads such as door locks, mirror adjustments, seat motors, and lighting. Its 16-bit HCS12 core at 25 MHz easily handles multiplexed switch scanning, PWM-driven actuator control, and CAN 2.0 A/B messaging with other ECUs on the vehicle bus. The on-chip bandgap regulator accepts a 5 V automotive rail directly, eliminating an external 3.3 V LDO and trimming BOM cost. With 31 GPIO and an 8/10-bit ADC, the part reads multiple switch and sensor inputs while issuing actuator commands, and its -40C to +105C temperature range covers under-hood and cabin environments.
Recommended
CAN Node Endpoints (Sensor / Actuator Modules)
As a CAN 2.0 A/B node, the MC9S12C64VFAE integrates cleanly into automotive sensor clusters such as door modules, mirror controllers, and lighting nodes. The integrated msCAN module, acceptance filters, and 16-bit timers make event-driven CAN networking straightforward, while the 64 KB Flash holds both the CAN stack and application code. Its 48-pin LQFP footprint is shared across the S12C family, so designers can move to larger-memory (MC9S12C96CFAE) or scaled-down (MC9S12C32VFAE16) parts without PCB rework when firmware size changes.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Hubs and Controllers
Outside the car, the MC9S12C64VFAE serves in PLC I/O modules, HVAC controllers, and industrial sensor hubs that need a robust 16-bit core with on-chip CAN. Its 2.97 V to 5.5 V supply tolerance suits 24 V industrial buses stepped down to 5 V, while the 8/10-bit ADC digitizes analog sensors (temperature, pressure, current). The PLL enables flexible bus-clock tuning, and BDM lets field engineers re-flash firmware without removing the module. The wide -40C to +105C operating range supports outdoor enclosures and factory-floor deployment.
Recommended
HVAC and Climate Control Units
In climate-control units, the MC9S12C64VFAE runs the closed-loop control algorithms for blower speed, mixed-air damper position, and temperature regulation. The Enhanced Capture Timer (ECT) drives PWM outputs for motor control, while the on-chip ADC reads NTC thermistors for cabin and ambient temperature. Because the part integrates a CAN controller, it can be slaved to the vehicle's HVAC master controller or, in industrial settings, operate as a standalone controller with a discrete user interface.
Recommended
Lighting Controllers (Interior and Exterior LED)
The MC9S12C64VFAE drives LED matrix controllers, ambient interior lighting, and exterior lamp modules using its timer PWM channels. The 16-bit HCS12 core handles LIN/CAN command parsing, brightness ramps, and fault diagnostics. Its 31 GPIO and -40C to +105C temperature range allow it to be placed near power-MOSFET LED drivers in exterior lamp modules without thermal concerns. The on-chip Vreg simplifies PCB layout by removing the need for a separate logic-rail LDO.
Recommended
Appliance and White-Goods Control Boards
White-goods controllers (washing machines, dishwashers, ovens) benefit from the MC9S12C64VFAE's automotive-grade peripherals at industrial price points. The on-chip ADC scans motor-current shunts and temperature sensors, while PWM channels drive triacs or relay drivers. The CAN interface can connect to a home-appliance network or to a service tool for diagnostics. Its 48-pin LQFP is hand-solder-friendly for low-volume repair depots, an advantage over BGA alternatives.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MC9S12C64VFAE — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MC9S12C64CFAE | MC9S12C64MFAE | MC9S12C96CFAE | MC9S12GC64CFAE | MC9S12C32VFAE16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | LQFP-48 (7x7 mm) | LQFP-48 - same | LQFP-48 - same | LQFP-48 - same | LQFP-48 - same | LQFP-48 - same |
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Core | HCS12 (16-bit) | HCS12 | HCS12 | HCS12 | S12GC | HCS12 |
| Flash Memory | 64 KB | 64 KB | 64 KB | 96 KB | 64 KB | 32 KB |
| RAM | 4 KB | 4 KB | 4 KB | 4 KB | 4 KB | 2 KB |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +105C (V-suffix) | 0C to +70C (C-suffix) | M-suffix grade (per NXP ordering info) | 0C to +70C (C-suffix) | 0C to +70C (C-suffix) | -40C to +105C (V-suffix) |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.97 V to 5.5 V | 2.97 V to 5.5 V | 2.97 V to 5.5 V | 2.97 V to 5.5 V | 2.97 V to 5.5 V | 2.97 V to 5.5 V |
| On-chip CAN 2.0 A/B | Yes (msCAN) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Single-rail 2.97-5.5 V operation with on-chip Vreg (vs Generic 16-bit MCU without integrated regulator)
- 16-bit HCS12 core with 64 KB Flash in LQFP-48 (vs MC9S12C32VFAE16 (32 KB Flash, same footprint))
- Integrated CAN 2.0 A/B with on-chip acceptance filters (vs MC9S12C-series devices without CAN)
Design Notes
The MC9S12C64VFAE integrates a bandgap-based voltage regulator (Vreg) that converts the external VDDX/VDDR (2.97-5.5 V) to the internal core VDD. Place the four bulk/decoupling capacitors specified in the NXP S12C datasheet (typically 100 nF plus larger bulk values) directly at the VDDX, VDDR, VDD, and VSS pins to ensure regulator stability. Inadequate decoupling can cause erratic reset behavior or bus-clock jitter. Keep the VDDX trace short and wide.
Reserve the BKGD pin (BDM) and the RESET pin access at board edge or test pad for in-circuit firmware updates. The BKGD pin must be pulled up during reset per the S12C datasheet. Place the external crystal or resonator (XTAL/EXTAL) close to the MCU and shield it with a grounded guard ring to avoid injecting noise into the PLL. Keep the CANRX/CANTX traces short and route them as a differential pair to the CAN transceiver, with a 120-ohm termination at the bus ends.
Do not leave the TEST pin floating - it must be tied to VSS for normal operation per the NXP S12C datasheet, otherwise the part may enter test mode and not boot. The XCLKS pin must be configured correctly for the chosen oscillator topology (loop-controlled Pierce vs full-swing). When migrating between V-suffix and C-suffix S12C parts, re-validate the temperature profile because the C-suffix device does not operate at -40C and can fail to start up cold.
Compliance Information
RoHS/lead-free status not found in the verified sources above; consult the NXP product page RoHS/REACH statement for the authoritative compliance data. AEC-Q100 grade not stated explicitly in the verified data; check the NXP qualification matrix for automotive-grade certification.
