C8051F304

Overview

The C8051F304 is an 8-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring a high-speed CIP-51 core with up to 25 MIPS throughput at a 25 MHz clock frequency. It integrates 4 kB of Flash program memory and 256 bytes of internal data RAM. The device operates within a supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 3.6 V and supports industrial temperatures from -40 °C to +85 °C. Key peripherals include three 16-bit counter/timers, a programmable counter array (PCA), hardware-enhanced UART and SMBus ports, and 8 general-purpose I/O pins. It utilizes an on-chip debug circuitry for non-intrusive in-system debugging.

Feature Summary

• Features a pipelined CIP-51 architecture that executes the majority of instructions in one or two system clocks for improved throughput.
• Includes on-chip debug circuitry enabling full-speed, non-intrusive in-system debugging without external emulators.
• Integrates hardware-enhanced serial communication interfaces including UART and SMBus.
• Provides flexible digital I/O configuration through a programmable crossbar decoder.

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring robust 8-bit processing
• Portable battery-powered instruments due to low power modes
• Embedded applications utilizing SMBus or UART communication protocols

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity against official Silicon Labs documentation before integration. Confirm package type availability as QFN-11 or SOIC-14. Check current lifecycle status as the family is marked Not Recommended for New Designs. Ensure design compliance with absolute maximum ratings and operating temperature specifications during procurement validation.

Selection Notes

Select this MCU for applications needing a fully 8051-compatible core with enhanced speed and integrated analog peripherals. Consider the C8051F30x family for designs prioritizing small form factors and low power consumption. Evaluate the specific memory requirements against the 4 kB Flash limit. Verify peripheral needs such as timer counts and serial interface compatibility before final selection.

Part Context

The C8051F304 belongs to the C8051F30x series of mixed-signal ISP Flash MCUs from Silicon Laboratories. This family is characterized by its high integration of analog and digital peripherals on a single chip. The devices are designed to function as complete system-on-chip solutions, reducing external component count. The series supports both in-circuit programming and standard development workflows.

Replacement Considerations

Silicon Labs marks the C8051F30x family as Not Recommended for New Designs. Developers should evaluate newer 8-bit or 32-bit microcontroller families for future projects. Existing designs may continue using this part but should assess long-term supply stability and potential obsolescence risks.