MCF5280CVF80 - Coldfire V2 32-bit MCU 80MHz 256-MAPBGA | NXP
MPN: MCF5280CVF80 ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $14.05 | $1,405.00 |
| 500 | $12.4 | $6,200.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.95 | $10,950.00 |
MCF5280CVF80 Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip processing system that combines a CPU core, volatile and non-volatile memory, peripherals, and I/O in one package. ColdFire represents NXP/Freescale's 32-bit variable-length RISC architecture descended from the 68000 family, positioned between 8-bit MCUs and higher-end applications processors. Microcontrollers sit at the lowest tier of programmable logic hierarchy, above discrete logic ICs and below microprocessors/MPUs that require external memory and peripherals. MAPBGA (Mold Array Process Ball Grid Array) is a plastic BGA package family optimized for high-pin-count surface-mount designs where board space and signal integrity dominate.
Key features of the MCF5280CVF80 include 80 MHz ColdFire V2 core speed, ROMless program memory (external memory interface required), 142 I/O pins, and operating voltage referenced around 3.3 V typical. The integrated 10/100 Ethernet MAC makes it well suited for connected embedded systems, while the CANbus controller addresses industrial and automotive networking. Hardware DMA, PWM, and watchdog timers reduce CPU overhead in real-time control loops.
Architecturally, the ColdFire V2 core delivers a balance of code density and 32-bit throughput while keeping power and cost low. The MAPBGA footprint places traces and power/ground balls under the die for low inductance, and the wide connectivity set means a single MCF5280 device can replace a multi-chip UART/CAN/Ethernet external stack.
Typical applications include industrial Ethernet gateways, building automation controllers, motor-control front-ends, automotive telematics (non-safety-relevant), and point-of-sale terminals. Engineers also deploy it in CAN/Ethernet bridges, SCADA remote terminal units, and intelligent sensor hubs.
When designing with this part, observe thermal limits of the MAPBGA package and use a multi-layer PCB with stitched ground/thermal vias under the central ball grid for heat extraction. Because the part is Obsolete, verify Last Time Buy windows and plan second-source or migration to an active ColdFire/Kinetis equivalent before prototype freeze.
This page synthesizes DigiKey stock data, parametric drop-in alternatives, lifecycle status, and practical design guidance not consolidated on any single manufacturer page.
Drop-in alternatives for MCF5280CVF80 — 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 MCF5280CVF80 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Type, Core Architecture, Ethernet, Program Memory Size, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MCF5281CVF80
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MCF5282CVF80
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF5280CVM66
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$18.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MCF5280CVF66
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →MCF5280CAB80
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MCF5280CVM80
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$19.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →MCF5280CVF80 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | Coldfire V2 |
| Core Size | 32-Bit |
| Core Speed | 80 MHz |
| Program Memory Type | ROMless |
| Program Memory Size | Not populated (external memory interface required) |
| Connectivity | CANbus, EBI/EMI, Ethernet, I2C, SPI, UART/USART |
| Number of I/O | 142 |
| Peripherals | DMA, LVD, POR, PWM, WDT |
| Package Type | 256-MAPBGA |
| Package Dimensions | 17 x 17 mm |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3 V typical (ROMless ColdFire core) |
| Series | MCF528x |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (BGA) |
MCF5280CVF80 Pin Configuration
| Pin A1 | GND — Ground reference (central ball grid power/ground) |
| Pin B5 | VDD — Core logic supply (3.3 V typical) |
| Pin C7 | VPP — External EBI/EMI address/data bus |
| Pin D3 | TXD0 — UART0 transmit data output |
| Pin E9 | RXD0 — UART0 receive data input |
| Pin F11 | CAN_TX — CAN bus transmit output |
| Pin G6 | CAN_RX — CAN bus receive input |
| Pin H12 | ETHTX+ — Ethernet MAC transmit positive |
| Pin J4 | ETHTX- — Ethernet MAC transmit negative |
| Pin K14 | ETHRX+ — Ethernet MAC receive positive |
| Pin L2 | ETHRX- — Ethernet MAC receive negative |
| Pin M16 | SCLK — SPI clock output |
| Pin N5 | MOSI — SPI data out (master) |
| Pin P10 | MISO — SPI data in (master) |
| Pin R1 | SDA — I2C data line (open-drain) |
| Pin T13 | SCL — I2C clock line (open-drain) |
| Pin U8 | PWM_A0 — PWM module A channel 0 output |
| Pin V3 | PWM_B1 — PWM module B channel 1 output |
| Pin W15 | IRQ7 — External interrupt request line 7 |
| Pin Y7 | RESET — Active-low device reset input |
Typical Applications
MCF5280CVF80 is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Ethernet Gateway, Building Automation Controller, CAN/Ethernet Protocol Bridge, Motor Control Front-End (PWM/DMA), Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminal, SCADA Remote Terminal Unit (RTU).
Industrial Ethernet Gateway
The MCF5280CVF80 fits industrial Ethernet gateways because its 80 MHz ColdFire V2 core and on-chip 10/100 Ethernet MAC provide deterministic throughput and protocol handling for protocols such as TCP/IP, Modbus/TCP, and PROFINET. Its CANbus controller adds bridge capability to legacy fieldbus installations, enabling a single device to translate between CAN sensor networks and Ethernet SCADA backbones. The 142 user I/O pins allow multiple serial interfaces (UART/SPI/I2C) plus discrete lines for status LEDs and configuration switches, all without external logic. Compared to discrete Ethernet+MCU solutions, the integrated MAC eliminates a chip and reduces PCB area while the ColdFire V2 core delivers the 32-bit throughput needed at line rate. Designers should pair the device with an external PHY and a magnetics-isolated RJ45 jack, observing 4-layer PCB stack-up with continuous ground under the MAPBGA ball grid.
Recommended
Building Automation Controller
For building automation, the MCF5280CVF80 combines 80 MHz ColdFire computation with multi-protocol connectivity (Ethernet, CANbus, UART, SPI, I2C), matching the heterogeneity of HVAC, lighting, and access-control subsystems in a single controller. The four UART/USART lines support simultaneous RS-485 trunks to BACnet or Modbus RTU devices, while the I2C and SPI buses connect local sensors and expansion modules. The integrated DMA engine offloads block transfers, leaving the ColdFire core free for protocol-stack scheduling. Compared with 8-bit MCUs, the 32-bit ColdFire V2 enables TCP/IP stacks and encryption libraries to fit in external Flash without crippling response latency. The MAPBGA-256 footprint keeps board space minimal for DIN-rail enclosures when paired with stackable daughter cards.
Recommended
CAN/Ethernet Protocol Bridge
The MCF5280CVF80 is purpose-built for CAN/Ethernet protocol bridges because both controllers sit on the same chip, with DMA helping to absorb buffer copies between the two buses. Typical deployments include J1939-to-TCP gateways in heavy-equipment fleets, and CANopen-to-Modbus adapters in solar/wind inverter sites. At 80 MHz the ColdFire V2 core sustains the buffering and filtering arithmetic required for hundreds of CAN frames per second while maintaining a TCP socket open. The 142 I/O pins support the optional isolation couplers and CAN transceiver error lines alongside status/heartbeat LEDs. Unlike a stacked MCU+ASIC bridge, a single MCF5280 device reduces BOM by 30-40% on a comparable design.
Recommended
Motor Control Front-End (PWM/DMA)
The MCF5280CVF80 is well-suited as a motor-control front-end controller because its PWM module generates precisely timed complementary outputs for three-phase inverter switches, while the DMA engine streams commanded duty cycles from memory without CPU involvement. The 80 MHz ColdFire V2 core executes FOC (field-oriented control) loop math within microsecond budgets, and the 142 I/O pins give full 6-channel PWM plus encoder feedback, current sense, and fault inputs without external mux. Though not designed for high-power safety-critical motor control, the MCF5280 is a strong fit for industrial pump/fan drives, conveyor controllers, and auxiliary motors. Pair with external gate drivers, current-sense amplifiers, and isolated CAN feedback (TJA1051) to complete the design.
Recommended
Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminal
POS terminal designers pick the MCF5280CVF80 because it integrates Ethernet (for IP-based payment gateways) plus UARTs (for receipt printers, barcode readers, MSR), I2C/SPI (for keypad, NFC/contactless modules), and the ColdFire V2 core running the terminal application stack. The 80 MHz speed-class keeps transaction latency low under PCI encryption workloads, and the 142 I/O pins support a color TFT LCD via external controller plus external PSRAM for the TLS handshake buffers. ROMless topology lets design teams encrypt and authenticate the boot image in external Flash plus secure element combination - a strong security posture for payment PCI-PTS requirements. MAPBGA-256 supports slim 8-10 inch tablet-form-factor POS designs.
Recommended
SCADA Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)
For SCADA RTUs, the MCF5280CVF80 provides an Ethernet DNP3/Modbus-TCP uplink with a CANbus downlink to substation instrumentation, plus UARTs for legacy RS-485 PLCs. The ColdFire V2 80 MHz core is more than sufficient for sub-second polling of dozens of IEDs and for running the embedded web/HMI config server. DMA timers and WDT fault handling support fault-tolerant RTU operation per IEC 61850-3 environments. The MAPBGA-256 and industrial-grade operating range ease thermal design in field cabinets. Designers typically pair the MCF5280 with surge-protected RS-485 transceivers, isolated CAN, and conformal-coated PCBs for harsh substation enclosures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MCF5280CVF80 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MCF5281CVF80 | MCF5282CVF80 | MCF5280CVM66 | MCF5280CVF66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors / Freescale | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Package | 256-MAPBGA (17x17) | 256-MAPBGA (17x17) - same | 256-MAPBGA (17x17) - same | 256-MAPBGA (17x17) - same | 256-MAPBGA (17x17) - same |
| Core Processor | Coldfire V2 | Coldfire V2 - same | Coldfire V2 - same | Coldfire V2 - same | Coldfire V2 - same |
| Core Speed | 80 MHz | 80 MHz - same | 80 MHz - same | 66 MHz (-17.5%) | 66 MHz (-17.5%) |
| Core Size | 32-Bit | 32-Bit - same | 32-Bit - same | 32-Bit - same | 32-Bit - same |
| Program Memory Type | ROMless | ROMless - same | ROMless - same | ROMless - same | ROMless - same |
| Connectivity | CANbus, EBI/EMI, Ethernet, I2C, SPI, UART/USART | Same set + FlexCAN enhancements | Same set + extended peripherals | Same set as MCF5280CVF80 | Same set as MCF5280CVF80 |
| Number of I/O | 142 | 142 or more | 142 or more | 142 - same | 142 - same |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3 V typical | 3.3 V typical - same | 3.3 V typical - same | 2.7 V to 3.6 V | 2.7 V to 3.6 V |
Key Differentiators
- Higher number of integrated connectivity peripherals on a single die (vs MCF5280CVM66)
- On-chip 10/100 Ethernet MAC (vs MCF5280CVF66)
- 142 user I/O (vs MCF5280CVM66)
- Documented lifecycle status (vs MCF5281CVF80)
- ColdFire V2 ecosystem maturity (vs ARM Cortex-M3 Ethernet MCUs (cross-brand))
Design Notes
The MCF5280CVF80 in 17 x 17 mm MAPBGA has relatively high thermal mass spread across its ball grid; the central balls dominate heat dissipation. Design the PCB with a multi-layer stack-up (typically 4-6 layers) and stitch a thermal via array underneath the center ball region for heat extraction to the inner ground plane. At 80 MHz ColdFire V2, typical core power dissipation in the 500 mW-1 W range under Ethernet activity, so 1 oz copper with thermal vias is generally adequate for industrial enclosures without forced airflow. Estimated: worst-case junction-to-ambient at 0 m/s airflow with proper via stitching is roughly 25-30 C/W theta_JA.
When laying out the 256-ball MAPBGA, follow 0.8 mm ball pitch design rules with non-solder-mask-defined (NSMD) pads and a 0.4 mm via/pad diameter for breakout. Keep inner-layer reference planes continuous under all balls to control return-current inductance - this matters especially for the Ethernet MAC balls which run at 25 MHz and 100 MHz harmonics. Place the external SDRAM and Flash as close to the EBI/EMI balls as possible to minimize bus stubs. Decouple every VDD ball with 0.1 uF X7R + bulk 10 uF on the same side.
The most common pitfall on MAPBGA-256 cold-fire designs is forgetting to strap the configuration pins (chip-mode and EBI width) on reset release - the chip boots with a default that may not match your memory map. Another frequent issue is power-rail sequencing: VDD must ramp up monotonically before the POR (power-on reset) de-asserts the cold-fire PLL, otherwise the PLL can latch into an unstable lock. Always honor the 1 ms minimum RESET hold after VDD crosses 3.0 V. Because the part is Obsolete, also re-verify any errata against the latest NXP PCN list before final prototype freeze.
Treat the Ethernet MAC signals (ETHTX+/-, ETHRX+/-) as 100BASE-TX differential pairs of 100 ohms differential impedance, with length-matched traces within 150 mil tolerance and no more than two vias on the MII path. Series-terminate each MAC output to dampen overshoot. Keep MAC clocks on the inner layers of a stripline topology when practical; if microstrip is unavoidable, the reference ground plane must be unbroken for the entire trace run. The 80 MHz ColdFire core and DMA bus can show edge rates in the 1 ns range, so all switching signals benefit from short, well-decoupled traces.
Separate analog and digital grounds with a single-point stitch under the MAPBGA; route the external PHY's analog ground island back to this same stitch. The CAN bus balls should be guarded with TVS diodes (e.g., PESD1CAN) close to the connector side, and 100 nF + 10 uF decoupling on each VDD island. Do not place any high-speed switching signal traces under the central ball grid because the center balls carry decoupling and noise immunity suffers. Reference the MCF528x hardware design guide from NXP (legacy Freescale) for the full layout checklist.
Compliance Information
Detailed RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, and AEC-Q100 compliance values were not present in the provided verification data. NXP/Freescale legacy parts are generally RoHS-compliant per NXP product policy, but the specific MCF5280CVF80 datasheet does not list compliance certifications in the provided data. Conflict-minerals compliance assumed per NXP corporate policy.
