Motorola reserves the right to make changes without further notice to any products herein # **MC68HC908JK8: A Reliable 8-Bit Microcontroller for Embedded Applications**
The **MC68HC908JK8** is an efficient and versatile 8-bit microcontroller from the HC08 family, designed to meet the demands of embedded control applications. With its robust architecture, low-power operation, and integrated peripherals, this microcontroller is well-suited for a wide range of industrial, consumer, and automotive applications.
## **Key Features and Benefits**
### **High-Performance 8-Bit Core**
At the heart of the MC68HC908JK8 is an advanced **HC08 CPU core**, capable of running at up to **8 MHz**. This ensures responsive performance for real-time control tasks while maintaining energy efficiency. The microcontroller supports a wide operating voltage range (2.7V to 5.5V), making it adaptable to various power conditions.
### **Integrated Memory and Storage**
The device includes **8 KB of Flash memory**, allowing for flexible firmware updates and reprogramming. Additionally, it features **384 bytes of RAM**, providing sufficient space for data handling in embedded applications. The Flash memory is **in-system programmable (ISP)**, enabling easy field upgrades without requiring external programming hardware.
### **Versatile On-Chip Peripherals**
The MC68HC908JK8 integrates multiple peripherals to reduce external component dependency, including:
- **8-channel, 8-bit ADC** – Supports analog signal acquisition for sensor interfacing.
- **Two 16-bit timers** – Useful for PWM generation, event counting, and timing operations.
- **Serial Communication Interface (SCI)** – Enables UART-based serial communication.
- **Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI)** – Facilitates high-speed data exchange with external devices.
- **On-chip oscillator** – Reduces the need for external clock components.
### **Low-Power Modes**
For battery-powered and energy-sensitive applications, the MC68HC908JK8 offers multiple **low-power modes**, including **Wait and Stop modes**, which significantly reduce power consumption when the system is idle.
### **Robust Development Support**
Engineers working with the MC68HC908JK8 benefit from a well-established ecosystem, including:
- **Comprehensive development tools** – Such as assemblers, debuggers, and C compilers.
- **Evaluation boards** – For rapid prototyping and testing.
- **Extensive documentation** – Including datasheets, application notes, and reference designs.
## **Applications**
The MC68HC908JK8 is ideal for a variety of embedded control applications, such as:
- **Home appliances** (smart thermostats, washing machines)
- **Industrial automation** (motor control, sensor interfaces)
- **Automotive electronics** (dashboard controls, lighting systems)
- **Consumer electronics** (remote controls, small gadgets)
## **Conclusion**
With its combination of performance, integrated peripherals, and low-power operation, the **MC68HC908JK8** is a dependable choice for embedded system designers. Its ease of development and reprogrammability further enhance its appeal for cost-sensitive and power-efficient applications.
For engineers seeking a proven 8-bit microcontroller solution, the MC68HC908JK8 delivers the right balance of functionality and reliability.
