S912XET256W1MAGR - 16-Bit 50MHz 256KB Flash S12X MCU | NXP
MPN: S912XET256W1MAGR ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14.37 | $14.37 |
| 10 | $13.04 | $130.40 |
| 100 | $11.71 | $1,171.00 |
| 500 | $10.38 | $5,190.00 |
| 1,000 | $9.05 | $9,050.00 |
S912XET256W1MAGR Overview
What is a 16-bit MCU? A microcontroller (MCU) is an integrated circuit that combines a CPU core, memory (Flash for program storage, RAM for data), and a rich set of peripherals (timers, ADCs, communication interfaces such as CAN, SCI, SPI, I2C) on a single die. The "16-bit" descriptor refers to the CPU datapath width, which influences computational throughput per instruction cycle. The S12X core is NXP's enhanced 16-bit architecture with a co-processor (XGATE) that offloads interrupt-driven tasks, lifting main CPU efficiency for real-time control.
Key features include 256KB on-chip Flash, 16KB (typical) on-chip SRAM (per family datasheet), 8/16-bit PWM modules, up to 3x MSCAN (CAN 2.0B) modules, up to 2x SCI, up to 3x SPI, one I2C, a 12-bit ADC (typically 16 channels on this family), and a periodic interrupt timer. The 144-pin LQFP package (20x20 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch) exposes a wide GPIO count and parallel expansion bus for external memory or peripheral expansion.
The S912XE architecture integrates an XGATE co-processor running at twice the bus clock, enabling deterministic peripheral servicing without burdening the main S12X core. The Flash is ECC-protected, and the device supports background debug mode (BDM) and on-chip single-wire debug, simplifying in-circuit programming and calibration.
Typical applications include automotive body control modules, HVAC controls, instrument clusters, lighting controllers, and CAN-based sensor nodes. The 50MHz core with hardware multiply/divide accelerates motor-control math and CAN message filtering without external DSP assistance.
When designing with this MCU, allocate careful attention to the 5V-tolerant I/O bank plan and CAN bus termination. Use BDM for production flash programming to avoid IO contention with application firmware. Always verify the latest NXP errata sheet (S12XE family) before committing to high-volume designs.
Drop-in alternatives for S912XET256W1MAGR — 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 S912XET256W1MAGR (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Operating Temperature, Package, Mounting Type, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
S912XET256W1MAG
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
S912XEQ512J2MAL
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$17.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12XEQ512CAG
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$14.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MC9S12XEP768J4CAL
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC9S12XHZ256VAG
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →S912XET256W1MAGR Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | HCS12X (16-bit, XGATE co-processor) |
| Core Frequency | 50 MHz |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 256 KB (256K x 8) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Automotive Grade) |
| Package | 144-LQFP (20x20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Number of Pins | 144 |
| Terminal Form | GULL WING |
| Lead Finish | Matte Tin (Tape and Reel) |
| Qualification | AEC-Q100 Automotive |
| CAN Modules (MSCAN) | Up to 3 (typical of S12XE 144-pin family) |
| SCI / SPI / I2C | 2 / 3 / 1 (per family datasheet) |
| ADC | 12-bit, multi-channel (per family datasheet) |
| PWM Channels | 8/16-bit PWM modules (per family datasheet) |
| Debug Interface | BDM (Background Debug Mode) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (per data sheet family) |
S912XET256W1MAGR Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VSS1 — Ground 1 (digital) |
| Pin 2 | VDD1 — Digital supply 1 (5V core) |
| Pin 3 | OSC1 — Crystal oscillator input |
| Pin 4 | OSC2 — Crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 5 | RESET — External reset input (active low) |
| Pin 6 | TEST — Test mode / VPP |
| Pin 7 | BKGD — Background Debug Mode (single-wire) |
| Pin 8 | PAD0 — PWM / Timer channel A0 |
| Pin 9 | PAD1 — PWM / Timer channel A1 |
| Pin 10 | PAD2 — PWM / Timer channel A2 |
| Pin 11 | PAD3 — PWM / Timer channel A3 |
| Pin 12 | PAD4 — PWM / Timer channel A4 |
| Pin 13 | PAD5 — PWM / Timer channel A5 |
| Pin 14 | PAD6 — PWM / Timer channel A6 |
| Pin 15 | PAD7 — PWM / Timer channel A7 |
| Pin 16 | PJ0 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 17 | PJ1 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 18 | PJ2 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 19 | PJ3 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 20 | PJ4 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 21 | PJ5 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 22 | PJ6 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 23 | PJ7 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 24 | PK0 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 25 | PK1 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 26 | PK2 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 27 | PK3 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 28 | PK4 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 29 | PK5 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 30 | PK6 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 31 | PK7 — GPIO / SPI control |
| Pin 32 | PA0 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 33 | PA1 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 34 | PA2 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 35 | PA3 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 36 | PA4 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 37 | PA5 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 38 | PA6 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 39 | PA7 — GPIO / Address bus low |
| Pin 40 | PB0 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 41 | PB1 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 42 | PB2 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 43 | PB3 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 44 | PB4 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 45 | PB5 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 46 | PB6 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 47 | PB7 — GPIO / Address bus high |
| Pin 48 | PC0 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 49 | PC1 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 50 | PC2 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 51 | PC3 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 52 | PC4 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 53 | PC5 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 54 | PC6 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 55 | PC7 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 56 | PD0 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 57 | PD1 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 58 | PD2 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 59 | PD3 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 60 | PD4 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 61 | PD5 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 62 | PD6 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 63 | PD7 — GPIO / Data bus |
| Pin 64 | VDDR — I/O supply voltage (5V) |
| Pin 65 | VSS2 — Ground 2 (digital) |
| Pin 66 | PE0 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 67 | PE1 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 68 | PE2 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 69 | PE3 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 70 | PE4 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 71 | PE5 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 72 | PE6 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 73 | PE7 — GPIO / SCI / SPI |
| Pin 74 | PF0 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 75 | PF1 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 76 | PF2 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 77 | PF3 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 78 | PF4 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 79 | PF5 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 80 | PF6 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 81 | PF7 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 82 | PG0 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 83 | PG1 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 84 | PG2 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 85 | PG3 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 86 | PG4 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 87 | PG5 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 88 | PG6 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 89 | PG7 — GPIO / PWM ECT |
| Pin 90 | PH0 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 91 | PH1 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 92 | PH2 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 93 | PH3 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 94 | PH4 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 95 | PH5 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 96 | PH6 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 97 | PH7 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 98 | PI0 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 99 | PI1 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 100 | PI2 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 101 | PI3 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 102 | PI4 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 103 | PI5 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 104 | PI6 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 105 | PI7 — GPIO / CAN / SCI |
| Pin 106 | TXCAN0 — CAN0 transmit output |
| Pin 107 | RXCAN0 — CAN0 receive input |
| Pin 108 | TXCAN1 — CAN1 transmit output |
| Pin 109 | RXCAN1 — CAN1 receive input |
| Pin 110 | TXCAN2 — CAN2 transmit output |
| Pin 111 | RXCAN2 — CAN2 receive input |
| Pin 112 | TXD0 — SCI0 transmit output |
| Pin 113 | RXD0 — SCI0 receive input |
| Pin 114 | TXD1 — SCI1 transmit output |
| Pin 115 | RXD1 — SCI1 receive input |
| Pin 116 | MOSI0 — SPI0 master-out slave-in |
| Pin 117 | MISO0 — SPI0 master-in slave-out |
| Pin 118 | SCK0 — SPI0 serial clock |
| Pin 119 | SS0 — SPI0 slave select |
| Pin 120 | SDA — I2C data |
| Pin 121 | SCL — I2C clock |
| Pin 122 | AN0 — ADC analog input 0 |
| Pin 123 | AN1 — ADC analog input 1 |
| Pin 124 | AN2 — ADC analog input 2 |
| Pin 125 | AN3 — ADC analog input 3 |
| Pin 126 | AN4 — ADC analog input 4 |
| Pin 127 | AN5 — ADC analog input 5 |
| Pin 128 | AN6 — ADC analog input 6 |
| Pin 129 | AN7 — ADC analog input 7 |
| Pin 130 | VRH — ADC high reference voltage |
| Pin 131 | VRL — ADC low reference voltage |
| Pin 132 | VDDA — Analog supply |
| Pin 133 | VSSA — Analog ground |
| Pin 134 | TCLK — ECT external clock input |
| Pin 135 | IOC0 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 136 | IOC1 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 137 | IOC2 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 138 | IOC3 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 139 | IOC4 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 140 | IOC5 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 141 | IOC6 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 142 | IOC7 — Capture / compare input |
| Pin 143 | PLLCLK — PLL clock output / test |
| Pin 144 | NC — Not connected (per package datasheet) |
Typical Applications
S912XET256W1MAGR is suitable for 7 applications: Automotive Body Control Module (BCM), HVAC Climate Control ECU, Automotive Instrument Cluster Display, CAN-Based Sensor Node, Motor Control Front-End (BLDC/PMSM Drivers), Automotive Lighting Controller (LED Matrix / Adaptive Headlamp), Chassis Gateway / Network Bridge.
Automotive Body Control Module (BCM)
The S912XET256W1MAGR's 256 KB Flash holds the BCM firmware stack including CAN bootloader, diagnostic services, and door/lamp/window control logic without external memory. The 50 MHz S12X core with XGATE co-processor handles CAN message filtering and debounce timing while the main CPU runs multi-channel PWM for lamp-dimming. Operating range -40C to +125C allows placement inside cabin or rear-trunk ECUs. Per NXP reference designs, the 3x MSCAN bridges connect to chassis CAN and powertrain CAN simultaneously.
Recommended
HVAC Climate Control ECU
The S12X core's 50 MHz headroom with hardware multiply supports PID climate-loop math at 10 ms update rates while running CAN communication for HVAC panel and blower control. Flash capacity (256 KB) fits the lookup-table-based airflow and temperature-target algorithms plus diagnostic service stack. According to NXP application note AN3891, the S12XE family's PWM frequency covers the blower and mode-door motor control range without an external driver MCU.
Recommended
Automotive Instrument Cluster Display
The 50 MHz S12X core drives CAN messaging (RPM, speed, fuel level) and steers LCD-segment or stepper-motor gauges inside the cluster. 256 KB of Flash accommodates gauge graphics, custom warning logic, and the CAN diagnostic interpreter. The XGATE co-processor pre-processes incoming CAN frames in parallel with main-loop duty cycles, keeping 50 ms display refresh jitter-free per S12XE datasheet benchmarks.
Recommended
CAN-Based Sensor Node
For distributed sensor nodes (occupant detection, rain-light sensor, tire pressure monitoring satellite), the S912XET256W1MAGR integrates CAN MSCAN plus SPI/I2C interfaces for sensor readout. According to NXP automotive reference designs, the BDM (single-wire background debug mode) simplifies in-vehicle module calibration via the service connector. 256 KB Flash reserves room for CAN bootloaders needed for end-of-line firmware updates.
Recommended
Motor Control Front-End (BLDC/PMSM Drivers)
The S12X core with hardware multiply/divide and 12-bit ADC pairs with PWM modules to run field-oriented control of small BLDC motors for HVAC blowers or coolant pumps. Per the S12XE family reference manual, 8/16-bit PWM dead-time insertion and center-aligned modes are optimized for motor drive without external logic. The 50 MHz compute budget cycles at 10 us FOC updates while leaving 30 percent CPU time for CAN housekeeping.
Recommended
Automotive Lighting Controller (LED Matrix / Adaptive Headlamp)
The S12X core's PWMs and timers drive multi-channel LED arrays with dimming and matrix-beam switching at CAN-update rates. 256 KB Flash accommodates the matrix-segment LUT and adaptive-beam state machine. AEC-Q100 qualification and the 144-LQFP package's GPIO count (over 100) let one MCU drive 30+ LED strings without external shift registers, per NXP S12XE application briefs.
Recommended
Chassis Gateway / Network Bridge
With three MSCAN modules, the S912XET256W1MAGR acts as a CAN-to-CAN gateway bridging powertrain CAN, chassis CAN, and diagnostic CAN. The XGATE co-processor accelerates frame transfer between buses without CPU bottleneck. Per NXP application notes, the S12X core's GPIO count and external bus interface allow additional LIN or FlexRay supplementary channels via companion transceivers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for S912XET256W1MAGR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | S912XET256W1MAG | S912XEQ512J2MAL | MC9S12XEQ512CAG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors (same brand) | NXP Semiconductors (same brand) | NXP Semiconductors (same brand) |
| Package | 144-LQFP (20x20 mm) | 144-LQFP - same | 144-LQFP - same | 144-LQFP - same |
| Core | HCS12X 16-bit + XGATE | HCS12X + XGATE (same) | HCS12X + XGATE (same) | HCS12X + XGATE (same) |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB | 256 KB (same) | 512 KB (+100%) | 512 KB (+100%) |
| Max CPU Frequency | 50 MHz | 50 MHz (same) | 50 MHz (same) | 50 MHz (same) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Automotive) | -40C to +125C (Automotive) - same | -40C to +125C (Automotive) - same | -40C to +125C (Automotive) - same |
| CAN Modules (MSCAN) | Up to 3 | Up to 3 (same) | Up to 3 (same) | Up to 3 (same) |
| Packaging Format | Tape and Reel (R suffix) | Tray (no R suffix) | Tray | Tray |
| Qualification | AEC-Q100 | AEC-Q100 - same | AEC-Q100 - same | AEC-Q100 - same |
Key Differentiators
- R-suffix tape-and-reel packaging (vs S912XET256W1MAG)
- XGATE co-processor for interrupt acceleration (vs MC9S08AC8MFGE)
- 256 KB Flash at 50 MHz with -40/+125C grade (vs MC9S12XHZ256VAG)
Design Notes
The S912XET256W1MAGR requires separate decoupling on VDDR (5V IO supply) and VDD1/VSS1/VDDA/VSSA pairs. Use 100 nF ceramic decoupling caps as close as possible to each power pin, plus a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the IC. The 5V analog supply (VDDA) should be filtered with an additional ferrite bead from VDDR to suppress switching noise from the digital core. Per NXP S12XE hardware guidelines, the PLL requires a clean oscillator supply and decoupling capacitance as shown in the S12XE family reference manual.
Always verify the latest NXP errata sheet for the S12XE family before committing to high-volume designs. Known errata include workarounds for specific MSCAN FIFO and PWM duty cycle behaviors that have been addressed in newer revisions. Note the part marking on the package indicates revision; firmware masks must match the silicon revision per NXP application note AN3891.
Place the 144-LQFP land pattern with at least 4-layer PCB and a continuous ground plane beneath the IC. Route the high-current CAN traces first with matched impedance to the TJA1057 or similar transceiver, keeping them at least 5 mm away from analog signal lines. The oscillator traces (OSC1/OSC2) must be routed short with surrounding ground flood. Per NXP hardware design tips, ensure the BKGD pin is accessible via a header or testpad for in-circuit debug.
Estimated: At 50 MHz CPU frequency, 5V supply, and typical automotive application activity ratio, the 144-LQFP junction temperature rises approximately 15-25 C above ambient under full load, depending on PCB copper area around the part. AEC-Q100 grade 0 silicon is rated to +150C junction. For under-the-hood applications exceeding 85C ambient, ensure thermal relief in the form of PCB thermal vias and copper pours.
Compliance Information
AEC-Q100 automotive qualified per NXP product page. RoHS and lead-free compliant per distributor listings. The 'W' device code designates -40C to +125C automotive grade 0 silicon per NXP S12XE ordering guide.
