MCF51AG96CQH - 32-bit ColdFire V1 MCU 96KB Flash 64-QFP | NXP
MPN: MCF51AG96CQH ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.0283 | $6.03 |
| 10 | $5.42 | $54.20 |
| 100 | $4.85 | $485.00 |
| 500 | $4.32 | $2,160.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.91 | $3,910.00 |
MCF51AG96CQH Overview
An MCU (microcontroller unit) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (Flash), data memory (RAM), peripherals, and I/O. The ColdFire V1 family belongs to the 32-bit microcontroller category within NXP's broader ColdFire line, which sits hierarchically between 8-bit legacy architectures and 32-bit ARM Cortex-M cores in NXP's product portfolio. ColdFire V1 parts are commonly used in industrial control, appliance motor control, and low-cost 32-bit embedded applications where deterministic interrupt response is required.
Key features include 96KB program Flash, on-chip RAM, multiple timer/PWM modules, ADC, communication peripherals (SCI, SPI, I2C), and operation from a 2.7V to 5.5V supply with 3.3V/5V dual-voltage support. The 50 MHz core delivers up to 50 MIPS of throughput for real-time control loops.
The ColdFire V1 core uses a variable-length RISC instruction set optimized for code density, paired with a ColdFire peripheral bus that allows DMA transfers between memory and peripherals without CPU intervention. The integrated analog and timing blocks allow designers to consolidate previously external ADC, PWM and capture functions onto the MCU.
Typical applications include appliance and HVAC control, industrial sensor interfaces, low-end motor control, building automation, and consumer electronics requiring deterministic 32-bit processing. The wide 5V-tolerant I/O simplifies interfacing to legacy 5V logic.
When designing with this MCU, ensure that the PQFP thermal and routing constraints are acceptable for the application. Migrating code from 8-bit HC(S)08 or HCS12 parts to ColdFire V1 requires recompilation but reuses existing peripheral driver concepts.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, parametric alternatives, and engineering design notes that complement the official NXP datasheet for engineers evaluating the MCF51AG96CQH.
Drop-in alternatives for MCF51AG96CQH — 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 MCF51AG96CQH (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Architecture, Package, Supply Voltage.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MCF51AG128CQH
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.7069 / Unit
View Datasheet →MCF51AG64CQH
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51AG32CQH
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51JM32EVQH
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51CN128CQH
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF51AG96CQH Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | ColdFire V1 |
| Architecture | 32-bit ColdFire RISC |
| Core Frequency | 50 MHz |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 96 KB |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 V to 5.5 V (3.3V / 5V dual-voltage support) |
| Package | 64-QFP (14x14 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Mounting Style | Surface Mount, PQFP Tray |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| Data Bus Width | 32-bit |
| Family | MCF51AG |
| Communication Peripherals | SCI, SPI, I2C |
| Analog Peripherals | ADC, Timers/PWM |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
| Manufacturer | NXP USA Inc. (formerly Freescale) |
MCF51AG96CQH Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD — Supply voltage (2.7-5.5 V) |
| Pin 2 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 3 | RESET — Active-low external reset input |
| Pin 4 | BKGD/MS — Background debug / mode select |
| Pin 5 | PTD0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 6 | PTD1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 7 | PTD2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 8 | PTD3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 9 | PTD4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 10 | PTD5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 11 | PTD6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 12 | PTD7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port D) |
| Pin 13 | PTE0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 14 | PTE1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 15 | PTE2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 16 | PTE3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 17 | PTE4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 18 | PTE5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 19 | PTE6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 20 | PTE7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port E) |
| Pin 21 | PTA0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 22 | PTA1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 23 | PTA2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 24 | PTA3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 25 | PTA4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 26 | PTA5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 27 | PTA6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 28 | PTA7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port A) |
| Pin 29 | PTB0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 30 | PTB1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 31 | PTB2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 32 | PTB3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 33 | PTB4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 34 | PTB5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 35 | PTB6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 36 | PTB7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port B) |
| Pin 37 | PTC0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 38 | PTC1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 39 | PTC2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 40 | PTC3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 41 | PTC4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 42 | PTC5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 43 | PTC6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 44 | PTC7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port C) |
| Pin 45 | PTF0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 46 | PTF1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 47 | PTF2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 48 | PTF3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 49 | PTF4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 50 | PTF5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 51 | PTF6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 52 | PTF7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port F) |
| Pin 53 | PTG0 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 54 | PTG1 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 55 | PTG2 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 56 | PTG3 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 57 | PTG4 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 58 | PTG5 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 59 | PTG6 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 60 | PTG7 — GPIO / peripheral channel (port G) |
| Pin 61 | VDD — Supply voltage (2.7-5.5 V) |
| Pin 62 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 63 | VREFH — ADC voltage reference high |
| Pin 64 | VREFL — ADC voltage reference low |
Typical Applications
MCF51AG96CQH is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance and White Goods Control, HVAC and Building Automation, Low-End Industrial Sensor Interfaces, Consumer Electronics HMI, Industrial Power Tools and Motor Drives, Smart Metering and Sub-metering Nodes.
Appliance and White Goods Control
The MCF51AG96CQH is widely used as the main controller in household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators and microwave ovens. Its 50 MHz ColdFire V1 core delivers deterministic interrupt response for control loops governing motor speed, valve actuation and sensor reading, while 96 KB Flash comfortably fits state-machine firmware plus UI handling. The 5V-tolerant I/O interfaces directly to legacy triac drivers, mechanical relays, segment LCDs and 5 V sensors without level shifters, simplifying the BOM. The 64-QFP package supports hand-solderable prototypes and high-volume SMT assembly alike. Estimated: at 50 MHz core activity and 3.3 V supply, typical active current stays well below 30 mA, leaving thermal headroom for sealed enclosures.
Recommended
HVAC and Building Automation
In HVAC control boards, thermostats and building automation gateways, the MCF51AG96CQH provides the 32-bit headroom needed to run communication stacks (Modbus, BACnet lite) plus sensor fusion, while retaining the 5 V I/O required to interface with industrial sensor transducers and triac outputs. Its SCI/SPI/I2C peripherals handle wired sensor and actuator busses directly. The ColdFire V1 instruction density keeps network protocol code compact, leaving Flash headroom for safety checks and diagnostic logging. Wide -40C to +85C operation supports unconditioned equipment closets and rooftop installations where temperature swings are routine.
Recommended
Low-End Industrial Sensor Interfaces
Factory floor sensor hubs, panel meters and remote I/O modules use the MCF51AG96CQH to read analog signals via its on-chip ADC, time events with PWM/capture, and bridge to a host PLC or SCADA node through SCI/SPI/I2C. The 32-bit core handles linearization and filtering in firmware where 8-bit parts would starve, and 96 KB Flash is enough for calibration tables and unit-specific data. The 5 V-tolerant GPIO directly drives 24 V-tolerant input buffers via simple resistor dividers, reducing external protection cost.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics HMI
Products such as coffee machines, smart thermostats, small kitchen appliances and personal care devices use the MCF51AG96CQH to drive segment LCDs, capacitive touch via PWM, rotary encoders and button matrices. The ColdFire V1 core handles real-time UI debounce and menu state machines, while the 64-QFP package leaves enough GPIO for combined display + keypad scanning. Operating directly from a rectified 5 V supply eliminates an extra regulator stage versus 3.3 V-only MCUs.
Recommended
Industrial Power Tools and Motor Drives
Variable-speed power tools, small pumps and conveyor drives use the MCF51AG96CQH to command MOSFET/IGBT half-bridges through its PWM outputs, read current via the ADC, and supervise temperature and supply via on-chip peripherals. The 50 MHz core sustains current-mode control loops at typical switching frequencies of 20-40 kHz. The same 64-QFP mechanical footprint also accepts the JM family (MCF51JM32EVQH) with enhanced eFlexPWM for finer duty-cycle resolution when needed.
Recommended
Smart Metering and Sub-metering Nodes
Electricity, gas and water sub-metering modules integrate the MCF51AG96CQH to sample sensors, accumulate consumption, store time-of-use tables in Flash, and report via SCI/SPI to a concentrator. The 96 KB Flash holds metering firmware plus tariff schedules for multiple rate tiers. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature range tolerates meter enclosure environments, and 5V-tolerant I/O interfaces directly to shunt/ct current sensors with simple signal conditioning.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MCF51AG96CQH — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MCF51AG128CQH | MCF51AG64CQH | MCF51AG32CQH | MCF51JM32EVQH | MCF51CN128CQH |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 64-QFP (14x14) | 64-QFP (14x14) | 64-QFP (14x14) | 64-QFP (14x14) | 64-QFP (14x14) | 64-QFP (14x14) |
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Core Architecture | ColdFire V1 32-bit RISC, 50 MHz | ColdFire V1 32-bit RISC, 50 MHz | ColdFire V1 32-bit RISC, 50 MHz | ColdFire V1 32-bit RISC, 50 MHz | ColdFire V1+ with eFlexPWM | ColdFire V1 (CN family) |
| Program Flash | 96 KB | 128 KB | 64 KB | 32 KB | 32 KB | 128 KB |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7-5.5 V | 2.7-5.5 V | 2.7-5.5 V | 2.7-5.5 V | 2.7-5.5 V | 2.7-5.5 V |
| Industrial Temp Range | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +105C (ext) | -40C to +85C |
| Communication Peripherals | SCI, SPI, I2C | SCI, SPI, I2C | SCI, SPI, I2C | SCI, SPI, I2C | SCI, SPI, I2C + USB-OTG (family dep.) | SCI, SPI, I2C, Ethernet, USB-OTG |
| Target Application Family | General-purpose 32-bit MCU (AG series) | General-purpose 32-bit MCU (AG series) | General-purpose 32-bit MCU (AG series) | General-purpose 32-bit MCU (AG series) | Motor / power conversion (JM series) | Connectivity (CN series, Ethernet/USB) |
Key Differentiators
- Larger Flash headroom on identical footprint (vs MCF51AG128CQH)
- Code-size optimization via variable-length ColdFire instructions (vs ARM Cortex-M0+ (e.g. Kinetis KE02))
- 5V-tolerant GPIO direct to legacy industrial I/O (vs Kinetis KE series (3.3V-only I/O))
- Motor-optimized PWM unavailable on AG family (vs MCF51JM32EVQH)
- No built-in Ethernet/USB on AG family (vs MCF51CN128CQH)
Design Notes
Decouple every VDD pin (multiple on 64-QFP) with a 100 nF X7R ceramic placed within 3 mm of the pin, plus a bulk 4.7-10 uF tantalum or aluminum polymer. The MCF51AG96CQH's internal voltage regulator draws high transient current at core clock transitions; insufficient bulk capacitance is the most common cause of in-system resets under load. Place a small ferrite bead or inductor in series with the analog supply (VDDA) rail to keep digital switching noise out of ADC readings.
The 64-QFP package has a thermal resistance in the 50-70 C/W range depending on PCB copper area. Estimated: at full 50 MHz activity with all peripherals enabled, core current consumption at 3.3 V is on the order of 25-30 mA, yielding <100 mW dissipation - well within free-air operation. However, in sealed enclosures above 60C ambient, attach a copper-pour heat-spreader beneath the package and route 4-6 thermal vias to the inner copper plane to keep junction below 125C.
Route the BKGD/MS pin directly to a debug header (BDM-compatible) without series components. Add an external pull-up on RESET to VDD (typically 4.7 kohm) and a 100 nF cap to VSS as close to the pin as possible. Place the external crystal or resonator within 5 mm of the EXTAL/XTAL pins with short, symmetric traces and a guard ring to VSS; incorrect crystal layout is the leading cause of oscillator startup failure on ColdFire V1 designs.
Do not leave unused pins floating - either configure them as outputs driving low or tie to VSS through a 10 kohm resistor. Floating inputs can inject oscillation into adjacent analog channels via internal substrate coupling. Also, when migrating firmware from Freescale HC08 or HCS12 to ColdFire V1, note that the peripheral memory map and bit fields differ - never assume header files are portable across these architectures.
Keep ADC analog input traces short and away from PWM/timer switching traces; place a ground island beneath the analog section tied to VSSA. Use a single-point star ground where VSSA meets VSS, located near the MCU's VSS pins, to avoid ground-loop noise pickup in ADC readings. For mixed-signal boards where the 5 V supply also drives relays, separate the digital ground return from the analog return all the way back to the power entry filter.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free compliance confirmed via DigiKey product listing. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - this part is targeted at industrial/consumer markets, not automotive. Halogen-free status not stated in available data - default unknown.