NXP Semiconductors FRDM-KW24D

Overview

FRDM-KW24D from NXP Semiconductors is a Freedom development platform built around the MKW24D512 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4 transceiver with integrated ARM Cortex-M4 MCU, 16 Mbit serial flash, onboard F-antenna, and OpenSDA debug interface. It supports ZigBee Pro, Thread, and 6LoWPAN protocols for low-power wireless sensor node development.

For engineers reviewing the FRDM-KW24D datasheet, FRDM-KW24D pinout, FRDM-KW24D application, or FRDM-KW24D equivalent, this page delivers verified platform specifications, regulatory compliance status (FCC/IC/CE), RF performance metrics (-102 dBm sensitivity, -35 to +8 dBm programmable output), and hardware integration details for rapid prototyping of ISM-band IoT edge devices.

Technical Context

The FRDM-KW24D implements a complete IEEE 802.15.4-compliant evaluation system using the MKW24D512 SoC - combining a 2.4 GHz RF transceiver, 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 core, 512 KB flash, and 64 KB RAM in a 63-pin LGA package. It integrates dual crystal oscillators (32 MHz reference, 32.768 kHz optional), Balun-based RF front-end, and SMA connector for RF measurement.

Platform-level design includes four-layer FR4 PCB (81.2 × 53.3 mm), OpenSDAv2.1 debug bridge based on Kinetis K20, and modular power options (USB, VIN header, or external DC). Peripheral interfaces include I²C (FXOS8700CQ 6-axis sensor), SPI (AT45DB161E serial flash), UART, JTAG/SWD, and Freedom-standard headers (J1–J4) with configurable signal routing via jumpers.

Key Specifications

Availability

FRDM-KW24D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for IEEE 802.15.4 protocol stack validation, Thread/ZigBee sensor node prototyping, and low-power wireless embedded development requiring stable component supply and long-term design support.

Supply support for FRDM-KW24D includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in wireless MCUs and protocol stacks.

The FRDM-KW24D belongs to NXP's Kinetis KW2x family of sub-GHz and 2.4 GHz wireless MCUs, designed specifically for standards-based, ultra-low-power IEEE 802.15.4 mesh networking in smart home, industrial monitoring, and asset tracking systems.

FAQ

What wireless standards does the FRDM-KW24D support out of the box?

The FRDM-KW24D supports IEEE 802.15.4 physical and MAC layers natively via the MKW24D512 SoC. With appropriate software stacks, it enables full implementation of ZigBee Pro, Thread, and IPv6/6LoWPAN protocols. NXP provides reference firmware and SDKs for all three, validated on the FRDM-KW24D hardware platform.

Does the FRDM-KW24D include an onboard debugger, and what interface does it use?

Yes, the FRDM-KW24D includes an integrated OpenSDAv2.1 debug circuit based on the Kinetis K20 MCU. It provides full-speed USB 2.0 connectivity to host PCs and exposes standard ARM SWD and JTAG interfaces via 10-pin Cortex headers (J3 and J4), enabling seamless programming and real-time debugging of the MKW24D512 target without external tools.

Can the FRDM-KW24D be powered from sources other than USB?

Yes, the FRDM-KW24D supports multiple power configurations: micro-USB (J16), unregulated 5–9 V input via J2 pin 16 (P5-9V_VIN), or direct 3.3 V supply via SH18 header. Power distribution is segmented (V_MCU, P3V3_BRD) with cut-trace jumpers (e.g., J40) to isolate and measure current draw per subsystem - critical for low-power IoT validation.

What sensors are included on the FRDM-KW24D board?

The FRDM-KW24D integrates the NXP FXOS8700CQ - a 6-axis combo sensor combining a 3-axis linear accelerometer and 3-axis magnetometer on a single die. It connects via I²C with discrete pull-up resistors, operates from P3V3_BRD, and provides interrupt signaling. This enables motion-aware wireless node development without external components.

Is the FRDM-KW24D FCC- and CE-certified for RF emissions?

Yes, the FRDM-KW24D is pre-certified for FCC Part 15 (USA), IC RSS-210 (Canada), and ETSI EN 300 328 V1.7.1 (Europe) for intentional radiators. Certification covers the base configuration with onboard F-antenna and default firmware. Modifications - including antenna replacement or output power changes beyond factory settings - void regulatory approval and require re-evaluation.