C8051F304-GS Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The C8051F304-GS is an 8-bit microcontroller from Silicon Labs' C8051F30x series, featuring a 25MHz 8051 core with 4KB Flash memory and 256 bytes of RAM in a 14-SOIC package. The product is currently obsolete, making substitute parts necessary for new designs and production continuity. Equivalent alternatives maintain core functionality while offering enhanced features, expanded I/O capabilities, or improved supply availability.

Substiute Parts

C8051F304-GS

Silicon LabsIn Stock: 897C8051F304-GS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

C8051F864-C-GS

Silicon LabsIn Stock: 900C8051F864-C-GS Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

N79E8432ASG

Nuvoton Technology CorporationIn Stock: 2005N79E8432ASG Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the C8051F304-GS is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Core Architecture: 8051-compatible processor required for firmware compatibility
• Memory Configuration: 4KB Flash program memory (minimum requirement)
• Operating Voltage: Supply range must encompass or exceed 2.7V ~ 3.6V
• Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 85°C operational specification
• Package Compatibility: Surface mount SOIC family (14-SOIC or 16-SOIC acceptable with PCB redesign)
• Connectivity Protocols: I2C/SMBus and UART/USART support

Two substitute parts meet these criteria with varying feature enhancements and supply status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

C8051F864-C-GS (MFR Recommended Substitute)

This Silicon Labs part is the manufacturer-recommended replacement for the obsolete C8051F304-GS. It maintains the same 8051 core architecture, 25MHz speed, and 4KB Flash memory. The C8051F864-C-GS offers expanded RAM (512 x 8 versus 256 x 8), additional I/O pins (13 versus 8), and SPI connectivity in addition to I2C and UART. The lower minimum supply voltage (2.2V) provides greater flexibility. Package migration from 14-SOIC to 16-SOIC requires PCB layout modification. Product status is active with current manufacturing availability.

N79E8432ASG (Alternative Substitute)

The Nuvoton N79E8432ASG provides an alternative 8051-compatible solution with equivalent 4KB Flash and expanded RAM. Operating speed is 24MHz (1MHz lower than the original). This part supports a wider voltage range (2.4V ~ 5.5V), includes on-chip EEPROM (4K x 8), and offers additional peripherals including A/D conversion (4x10-bit). The 16-SOIC package matches the C8051F864-C-GS. Product status is active with higher inventory availability (1908 pcs). ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status provide regulatory advantages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the C8051F864-C-GS directly replace the C8051F304-GS without firmware changes?

A: The C8051F864-C-GS maintains 8051 core compatibility and identical program memory size (4KB Flash). Firmware compatibility depends on peripheral usage. The C8051F864-C-GS includes additional peripherals (SPI, expanded I/O) that do not conflict with existing code. Pin mapping differs due to package change (14-SOIC to 16-SOIC), requiring PCB redesign.

Q: What are the package implications of switching from 14-SOIC to 16-SOIC?

A: The 14-SOIC and 16-SOIC packages have identical body width (0.154", 3.90mm) but differ in pin count. Migration requires PCB layout modification to accommodate the additional pins and updated footprint. Soldering process parameters remain compatible for both packages.

Q: Does the N79E8432ASG require firmware modifications?

A: The N79E8432ASG is 8051-compatible with identical program memory (4KB Flash). The 1MHz speed reduction (24MHz versus 25MHz) may affect timing-critical code. The part includes additional features (EEPROM, A/D converter, LED driver) that existing firmware will not utilize but will not conflict with. Pin mapping differs from both the original and the C8051F864-C-GS due to different manufacturer design.

Q: Which substitute part offers the best supply continuity?

A: The N79E8432ASG has the highest current inventory (1908 pcs) and active product status. The C8051F864-C-GS is the manufacturer-recommended option with active status and 887 pcs in stock. Both parts are actively manufactured and represent long-term supply solutions.

Q: Are there voltage supply compatibility concerns?

A: The original C8051F304-GS operates at 2.7V ~ 3.6V. The C8051F864-C-GS extends the lower limit to 2.2V, maintaining full compatibility. The N79E8432ASG supports 2.4V ~ 5.5V, providing the widest operating range. Both substitutes are compatible with the original supply voltage specification.