MCF51AC256AVLKE - 256KB ColdFire MCU 50MHz | NXP
MPN: MCF51AC256AVLKE ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15.1154 | $15.12 |
| 10 | $15.1154 | $151.15 |
| 100 | $15.1154 | $1,511.54 |
| 500 | $15.1154 | $7,557.70 |
| 1,000 | $15.1154 | $15,115.40 |
MCF51AC256AVLKE Overview
A microcontroller is a programmable system-on-chip that combines a processor core, memory, digital I/O, and often peripheral interfaces into one component. The MCF51AC256 belongs to the ColdFire family of 32-bit variable-length reduced instruction set computers, or RISC processors. This places it in the embedded-controller hierarchy: ColdFire processor core, microcontroller, embedded processor, and semiconductor. It is designed for control-oriented products where firmware executes repeatedly to read inputs, operate outputs, and coordinate connected hardware.
The verified data identifies 256KB of program memory, 32K x 8 RAM, 69 I/O pins, 50 MHz speed, an external oscillator, and an 80-LQFP package. The 80-pin package provides a larger pin count than a typical small-package MCU and is useful when a design requires multiple digital connections or broader peripheral integration. The exact peripheral functions, supply limits, temperature limits, voltage values, and clock configuration details are not included in the supplied verified data and should be checked in the NXP manufacturer datasheet before design release.
The MCF51AC256 series is described by NXP as a ColdFire family member with a 32-bit variable-length RISC architecture. That architecture is relevant to embedded developers because it supports 32-bit processing while retaining variable instruction length. The 256KB Flash capacity can accommodate firmware, configuration data, and application logic, while 32K x 8 RAM supports working memory for runtime data and stacks. Exact memory organization and peripheral assignments require review of the datasheet.
Typical design contexts for this device include industrial control equipment, embedded instrumentation, communications modules, and products that benefit from the pin count of an 80-LQFP package. Because the oscillator is external, the board must provide the required clock source and associated routing. Designers should also validate voltage compatibility, decoupling, reset behavior, boot configuration, and every assigned pin against the official datasheet before committing a PCB layout.
The most important purchasing consideration is lifecycle status. NXP’s product page identifies MCF51AC256AVLKE as End of Life, so engineers should not assume new-production availability. The verified distributor result lists 3,952 pieces and a unit price of $15.1154 as of the supplied data date, but inventory and lead time require confirmation with the seller. This page combines the verified specifications, sourcing information, and design cautions to support engineering evaluation rather than an unqualified production commitment.
Drop-in alternatives for MCF51AC256AVLKE — 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 MCF51AC256AVLKE (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MCF51AC256ACLKE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51AC256BVPUE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51AC256AVFUE
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51AC256AVPUE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MCF51AC256AVLKE Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 32-bit ColdFire RISC microcontroller |
| Program Memory Size | 256KB (256K x 8) |
| RAM Size | 32K x 8 |
| Number of I/O | 69 |
| Maximum Speed | 50 MHz |
| Oscillator Type | External |
| Core Architecture | 32-bit variable-length ColdFire RISC |
| Package | 80-LQFP |
| Package Family | LQFP surface-mount package |
| Terminal Count | 80 |
| Mounting Style | Surface mount |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3V/5V |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Packaging | Tray |
| Manufacturer | NXP Semiconductors |
| Lifecycle Status | End of Life |
| RoHS Status | unknown |
| REACH Status | unknown |
MCF51AC256AVLKE lqfp surface-mount package Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for MCF51AC256AVLKE (lqfp surface-mount package 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 MCF51AC256AVLKE.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
MCF51AC256AVLKE is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Embedded Control, Embedded Instrumentation, Communications Module, Legacy Motor-Control Platform, Data Acquisition Front End, Service and Repair Electronics.
Industrial Embedded Control
The MCF51AC256AVLKE fits legacy industrial control equipment that needs a 32-bit ColdFire processor, 256KB of Flash program storage, and 69 I/O pins. Its 80-LQFP package provides a broad connection count for digital sensors, actuator controls, status indicators, and communication peripherals. The external oscillator means the board must supply the required clock source. Because the device is marked End of Life, it is best suited to maintaining an existing installation or sourcing an approved remaining-stock replacement rather than designing a new long-lived platform. Confirm voltage, timing, pin multiplexing, and industrial temperature requirements in the NXP datasheet.
Recommended
Embedded Instrumentation
For embedded measurement and instrumentation products, the MCF51AC256AVLKE offers a 50 MHz ColdFire core with 256KB Flash and 32K x 8 RAM for firmware and runtime data. The 69 I/O pins can support digital control signals, status inputs, communications, and external peripheral connections when the verified device peripherals support the required functions. Its 80-LQFP footprint is larger than a minimal MCU package but useful when routing several board-level interfaces is more important than minimizing area. The external oscillator requirement should be incorporated into clock-tree planning, while supply and decoupling details must be taken from the official datasheet.
Recommended
Communications Module
The MCF51AC256AVLKE is suitable for a communications-oriented embedded module when the design already depends on the MCF51AC256 family and its 32-bit variable-length RISC architecture. The 256KB Flash region can hold application firmware and configuration data, while 32K x 8 RAM supports protocol state and working buffers. The 69 available I/O pins may simplify connections to a communications interface, status LEDs, reset circuitry, and supervisory devices. Exact UART, SPI, CAN, or other interface availability is not specified in the supplied snippets, so designers must verify the exact peripheral list and pin multiplexing in the NXP datasheet before selecting this legacy MCU.
Recommended
Legacy Motor-Control Platform
The MCF51AC256AVLKE can be considered for an existing motor-control or sequencing platform that already matches its ColdFire instruction set, memory size, and I/O allocation. Its 50 MHz rating provides processing capability for control logic, and 69 I/O pins can expose multiple digital control and status connections. The part does not have verified motor-driver specifications in the supplied data, so it should not be assumed to include a dedicated motor-control peripheral or to satisfy a new high-power drive design. Validate timer channels, PWM behavior, analog functions, current ratings, thermal limits, and safety requirements directly from the manufacturer documentation.
Recommended
Data Acquisition Front End
The 32-bit ColdFire processor, 256KB Flash, and 32K x 8 RAM can support a data-acquisition front end when the application requires deterministic embedded logic and a moderate amount of firmware. The 69 I/O pins provide resources for sensor enables, digital control lines, communication signals, and status reporting. However, the supplied data does not identify ADC resolution, sampling rate, analog input count, or timing specifications, so the MCU cannot be approved for an analog measurement requirement from the available snippets. Use the official datasheet to confirm analog peripherals and acquisition timing, then validate signal conditioning and connector isolation separately.
Recommended
Service and Repair Electronics
The MCF51AC256AVLKE is particularly relevant to service organizations repairing an existing product built around this exact MCU. Its verified 256KB Flash and 32K x 8 RAM capacity allow the original firmware model to be checked against the replacement inventory, while the 80-LQFP package helps identify the correct board-level component form factor. The NXP End of Life designation makes traceability and original-equivalent sourcing important. Before installing any stock, compare the complete manufacturer part number, package drawing, date or revision markings, electrical ratings, and pinout. Firmware compatibility cannot be inferred from memory size alone.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MCF51AC256AVLKE — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MCF51AC256ACLKE | MCF51AC256BVPUE | MCF51AC256AVFUE | MCF51AC256AVPUE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Package | 80-LQFP | 80-LQFP | QFP-80 | QFP-80 | QFP-80 |
| Program Memory | 256KB (256K x 8) | 256KB | 256KB | 256KB | 256KB |
| CPU Core | ColdFire V1 32-bit variable-length RISC | ColdFire V1 32-bit | ColdFire V1 32-bit | ColdFire V1 32-bit | ColdFire V1 32-bit |
| Maximum Speed | 50 MHz | 50 MHz | 50 MHz | 50 MHz | 50 MHz |
Key Differentiators
- Exact 256KB Flash allocation (vs MCF51AC256BVPUE)
- Verified 69 I/O and 80-LQFP implementation (vs MCF51AC256AVFUE)
- Explicit external-clock architecture (vs MCF51AC256AVPUE)
Design Notes
The verified data identifies 3.3V/5V operation but does not provide the complete electrical limit table. Before layout, use the NXP datasheet to identify the exact supply pins, allowable voltage range, input tolerances, output-driver limits, and power-sequencing requirements. Place the required bypass capacitors at the device supply pins and route high-current return paths without creating large loops. Do not infer a regulator rating from the package or nominal supply label.
The oscillator type is external, so the clock source is part of the board design rather than an internal-chip detail. Confirm the required oscillator frequency, amplitude, startup behavior, and clock-pin connection in the official datasheet. Keep the clock trace short, provide a clean return path, and avoid routing it beside noisy switching nodes. Validate timing margin and startup operation at the intended supply voltage before production release.
The 80-LQFP package has fine-pitch gull-wing leads and requires careful fanout, decoupling, and signal-integrity planning. Assign the 69 I/Os from the datasheet pin table rather than from assumptions about the MCU family. Check every power, ground, reset, clock, and programming-related connection during schematic review. Because the complete pinout is not included in the verified snippets, use the official NXP pin drawing to prevent footprint or pin-number errors.
The part is marked End of Life, so the main engineering risk is sourcing rather than basic operation. A same-family suffix can change ordering attributes, temperature grade, or package details even when the visible family description is similar. Before substitution, compare the full part number, package drawing, pin names, electrical limits, clock requirements, and firmware assumptions. A board footprint match alone is not proof of a drop-in replacement.
Compliance Information
The supplied verified data does not provide authoritative RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, conflict-minerals, or automotive qualification statements. The part is an industrial microcontroller based on the distributor listing, but AEC-Q100 status is not verified.
