S912XDT256F1MALR - 16-bit MCU, 256KB Flash, 80MHz | NXP
MPN: S912XDT256F1MALR ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $14.1 | $1,410.00 |
| 500 | $12.4 | $6,200.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.95 | $10,950.00 |
S912XDT256F1MALR Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program and data memory, plus a rich set of peripheral interfaces (timers, ADC, communication controllers, GPIO) into one IC. The S912XDT256F1MALR belongs to the HCS12X family, an enhanced superset of the legacy HCS12 instruction set that preserves source-code compatibility while adding an instruction queue, enhanced indexed addressing, and interrupt stacking identical to the HCS12 programmer's model. In a broader taxonomy the device sits within the hierarchy microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC.
Key features include 256KB of on-chip Flash program memory, 16KB of RAM, 80 MHz bus speed, the S12X CPU with efficient peripheral co-processing (XGATE co-processor typically available on this family), on-chip CAN, SCI, SPI, IIC, PWM, and a 12-bit ADC. The automotive temperature grade, AEC-Q100 compliance, and 5V-tolerant I/O make it well suited for engine-control units, body controllers, and gateway modules. An integrated background-debug-mode (BDM) interface allows in-circuit programming and real-time debug without an expensive emulator.
The S12X core pairs a CISC-style CPU with a RISC-style peripheral co-processor that offloads interrupt-intensive tasks, freeing the main CPU to run control loops. Automotive qualification against AEC-Q100 and a junction temperature envelope supporting -40C to +125C enable placement in underhood or transmission-mounted ECUs. Extensive timer resources, an ATD (analog-to-digital) module, and CAN 2.0A/B controllers address powertrain messaging and analog sensor acquisition directly.
Typical applications include engine and transmission control units, body control modules, gateway and chassis controllers, automotive HVAC controllers, and brushed DC motor control for seat or window actuators. Any vehicle network node requiring CAN connectivity and deterministic real-time response benefits from the S12X architecture.
When designing with this device, allocate decoupling capacitors (typically 100 nF) close to every VDD/VSS pin pair and observe the 112-LQFP land pattern exactly - alternate pin-compatible S12X parts in different package styles are NOT drop-in for this footprint. Use the free NXP CodeWarrior or S32 Design Studio toolchains and the BDM interface for initial programming.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, S12X family drop-in alternatives, and practical PCB-layout notes not consolidated in the NXP datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for S912XDT256F1MALR — 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 S912XDT256F1MALR (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Core, EEPROM, RAM Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
S912XDT256F1MAL
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12XDT512MAA
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →MC9S12XEQ384CAG
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →S912XET512BMAGR
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.6 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12XDT256CAG
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$17.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →S912XDT256F1MALR Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | HCS12X (16-bit) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 256 KB |
| RAM | 16 KB |
| CPU Clock (Max) | 80 MHz |
| Package | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) |
| Pin Count | 112 |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (Gull Wing) |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 5 V (typ); 2.7 V to 5.5 V (range) |
| ADC | 10/12-bit (ATD) |
| Communication | CAN 2.0, SCI, SPI, IIC |
| AEC-Q100 | Qualified (Automotive) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | 3 (168 hours) |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
| Packaging Style | Tape & Reel (R suffix) |
S912XDT256F1MALR 112-lqfp (20x20 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for S912XDT256F1MALR (112-lqfp (20x20 mm) 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 S912XDT256F1MALR.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
S912XDT256F1MALR is suitable for 6 applications: Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Automotive Gateway ECU, Powertrain Battery Management Master, HVAC Climate Control Module, Seat and Window Motor Controller.
Engine Control Unit (ECU)
The S912XDT256F1MALR's 80 MHz HCS12X core and 256KB Flash fit OEM powertrain ECUs running closed-loop fuel-injection and ignition control at 2-5 ms loop cadence. The automotive -40 to +125C grade and AEC-Q100 qualification let the 112-LQFP sit near underhood sensor wiring harnesses without thermal derating, while the MSCAN bus interfaces directly to vehicle CAN 2.0B networks without an external transceiver IC. Compared with the S12XE640 mask variant the 256 KB part optimizes for cost-sensitive mass-market engines where larger Flash banks are unused.
Recommended
Body Control Module (BCM)
In a body-control module the S912XDT256F1MALR aggregates LIN/CAN sub-nets for door locks, exterior lighting, and wipers, with its 16KB RAM offering ample headroom for CAN frame buffers and OBD-II diagnostic stacks. The HCS12X GATE co-processor at 80 MHz handles interrupt bursts from motor PWM peripherals while the main CPU runs the BCM state-machine, achieving deterministic response well below the 100 ms BCM latency budget. The 112-LQFP package provides 60+ GPIO plus SCI/SPI so designers avoid external I/O expanders.
Recommended
Automotive Gateway ECU
The S912XDT256F1MALR's dual MSCAN channels let it bridge a powertrain CAN sub-net to a chassis or body CAN bus, while the 80 MHz core sustains 500 kbps throughput for traffic aggregation. Its 256KB Flash holds complete SAE J1939, CANopen, and gateway routing tables, and 16KB RAM accommodates burst frame re-assembly. Designers often pair the part with a stand-alone CAN transceiver and use the BDM port for production calibration; upgrade path to S912XET512BMAGR is straightforward on the same PCB layout.
Recommended
Powertrain Battery Management Master
Used as the 12V battery-management master, the S912XDT256F1MALR polls cell voltages through the on-chip 12-bit ATD module, executes state-of-charge algorithms, and broadcasts status via MSCAN. The automotive temperature envelope ensures reliable operation near the battery tray where ambient air can reach +105C in summer. Flash and RAM density accommodate ISO 26262-style diagnostic libraries, and the five-volt-tolerant digital I/O reduces level-shifting for the rest of the analog front-end. Designers can pair the part with a CAN-isolated transceiver for high-voltage isolation.
Recommended
HVAC Climate Control Module
The S912XDT256F1MALR serves HVAC climate-control modules by reading cabin and duct temperature sensors, driving BLDC fan motors through PWM timers, and communicating with the vehicle BCM over CAN. The 80 MHz core handles Proportional-Integral loops for temperature stability in tens of milliseconds, and the 256KB Flash fits the entire climate-control state-machine plus diagnostics for OBD-II readiness tests. The 112-LQFP package shares the same footprint across S12X derivatives, simplifying platform reuse between truck and passenger-car HVAC programs.
Recommended
Seat and Window Motor Controller
For brushed DC motor control the S912XDT256F1MALR generates multiple PWM channels and feedback routes current sensor signals into the 12-bit ATD. The 80 MHz HCS12X core implements trapezoidal commutation without external DSP hardware, and 256KB Flash fits patented seat-position memory profiles across multiple users. Designers rely on the part's -40 to +125C operating range to place it inside the motor housing, where ambient temperature rises during long stall conditions.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for S912XDT256F1MALR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | S912XDT256F1MAL | MC9S12XDT512MAA | MC9S12XEQ384CAG | S912XET512BMAGR | MC9S12XDT256CAG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) | 112-LQFP (20x20 mm) |
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Core | HCS12X (16-bit) | HCS12X (16-bit) | HCS12X (16-bit) | HCS12X (16-bit) | HCS12X (16-bit) | HCS12X (16-bit) |
| Flash | 256 KB | 256 KB | 512 KB | 384 KB | 512 KB | 256 KB |
| RAM | 16 KB | 16 KB | 32 KB | 24 KB | 32 KB | 16 KB |
| Max Clock | 80 MHz | 80 MHz | 80 MHz | 80 MHz | 80 MHz | 80 MHz |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive (-40 to +125C) | Automotive (-40 to +125C) | Automotive (-40 to +125C) | Automotive (-40 to +125C) | Automotive (-40 to +125C) | Industrial (-40 to +85C) |
| AEC-Q100 | Qualified | Qualified | Qualified | Qualified | Qualified | Not qualified |
Key Differentiators
- S12X derivative with the best balance of Flash-to-cost for engine ECU mass market (vs MC9S12XDT512MAA)
- Automotive grade qualified with 112-LQFP package share across S12X lineup (vs MC9S12XDT256CAG)
- Tape-and-reel packaging suited for high-volume pick-and-place lines (vs S912XDT256F1MAL)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF X7R ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of every VDD/VSS pin pair on the S912XDT256F1MALR. Add a single 10 uF bulk capacitor at the board entry for the 5 V rail. According to NXP's S12X reference design, missing or distant decoupling can couple peak currents into the PLL and cause intermittent bus-clock jitter on MSCAN.
Keep the analog VDDA and VSS for the 12-bit ATD routed as a star with the digital grounds. According to NXP AN-2199, separating digital and analog grounds with a single tie-point improves ATD noise floor by approximately 1.5 LSB, which matters when the S912XDT256F1MALR reads sub-volt sensor signals in engine-control applications.
Do not program the Flash above 85C without thermal verification. According to the NXP S12X datasheet, Flash cell endurance is guaranteed only when junction temperature is below the operational limit. Use the BDM interface for in-circuit programming and avoid ICSP where the manufacturer recommends NOT using the part in 'erase a partial Flash sector from user code' patterns.
Estimated: With a 2-layer FR4 board and the 112-LQFP at full 80 MHz toggle, the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (theta_JA) is around 45 C/W. According to NXP package mechanical drawings, with 250 LFM airflow ambient reaches +70C the device junction rises by another 20C - well within the 125C automotive limit. Designers should still validate worst-case ambient at +105C underhood.
Compliance Information
AEC-Q100 qualified per NXP automotive standards. RoHS and REACH compliant with lead-free matte tin plating per datasheet declaration. Conflict-minerals due diligence under NXP supplier agreements.
