MCHC908JK3ECPE – Low-Cost HC08 Family MCU with ADC

The MCHC908JK3ECPE is a classic 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale Semiconductor), belonging to the M68HC08 family (specifically the HC08JK series).

Key Specifications

• Core: HC08 8-bit processor core
• Clock Frequency: Up to 8 MHz
• Program Memory: 4 KB Flash (in-circuit programmable/erasable)
• Data Memory: 128 bytes RAM
• Package: 20-pin DIP (PDIP, traditional through-hole package, easy for hand soldering and prototyping)
• Operating Voltage: 2.7V to 5.5V (compatible with common 3.3V / 5V systems)
• Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C (industrial grade)
• I/O Pins: Up to 15 general-purpose I/O pins
• Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): Built-in 10–12 channel 8-bit ADC (typically listed as 10ch or 12ch 8-bit ADC, varies slightly by document)

Other Peripherals:

• LED drive-capable pins
• Low-voltage detect (LVD)
• Power-on reset (POR)
• Pulse-width modulation (PWM)
• Basic timer/counter module
• Other Peripherals:LED drive-capable pinsLow-voltage detect (LVD)Power-on reset (POR)Pulse-width modulation (PWM)Basic timer/counter module
• Typical Applications: Low-cost, small embedded control tasks such as home appliance controllers, sensor nodes, electronic toys, simple industrial controls, entry-level motor control, etc.

Positioning and Status

This was one of the most popular low-cost, high value-for-money 8-bit MCUs in the early 2000s. It is code-compatible with the broader HC08 family. Development tools originally used CodeWarrior (early versions); modern support is limited as the toolchain is no longer actively maintained.

The part is now listed as Obsolete on the NXP website and is not recommended for new designs. However, it remains widely available in the secondary market and surplus channels (especially the DIP package), with very low prices, making it suitable for repairs, education, legacy project replication, or ultra-low-cost applications.