NXP Semiconductors JN5168/001,515
- Part No.:
- JN5168/001,515
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 40-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
JN5168/001,515.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 40HVQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,000
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Product details
Overview
JN5168/001,515 from NXP Semiconductors is a 32-bit IEEE 802.15.4 wireless microcontroller integrating 256kB Flash, 32kB RAM, and 4kB EEPROM; featuring a 2.4GHz transceiver with -95dBm sensitivity, 2.5dBm output power, and hardware 128-bit AES encryption-designed for ZigBee PRO, ZigBee Smart Energy, and RF4CE remote control systems operating on coin-cell batteries.
For engineers reviewing the JN5168/001,515 datasheet, JN5168/001,515 pinout, JN5168/001,515 application, or JN5168/001,515 equivalent, key selection criteria include deep-sleep current (0.12µA), integrated antenna diversity, Time-of-Flight ranging engine, 20 DIO pins with peripheral multiplexing, and support for multiple protocol stacks without external co-processors.
Technical Context
The JN5168/001,515 implements a unified memory architecture with 32-bit RISC CPU running at 1–32MHz, supporting variable-width instructions and multi-stage pipelining for high C-code efficiency. Its radio subsystem integrates O-QPSK modulation, MAC acceleration (auto-ACK, CRC, address filtering), and baseband processor compliant with IEEE 802.15.4-2006 PHY/MAC layers.
Power management includes three sleep modes: active processing (15mA TX / 17mA RX), sleep timer mode (0.6µA), and deep sleep (0.12µA wake-up from I/O). Peripherals include dual UARTs (one with RTS/CTS), SPI master/slave (3 chip selects), 2-wire I²C, 4-channel 10-bit ADC with battery/temperature sensors, and 5 PWM channels-including IR transmission support via dedicated timer.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Wireless Standard | IEEE 802.15.4-2006 compliant 2.4GHz O-QPSK transceiver, enabling ZigBee PRO, RF4CE, JenNet-IP, and ZigBee Light Link stack operation |
| Memory Configuration | 256kB Flash (application code), 32kB RAM (runtime data), 4kB EEPROM (100k write endurance) - sufficient for full-stack + application firmware in single-chip deployment |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0V to 3.6V - supports direct coin-cell (CR2032) operation with internal 1.8V regulators for RF/analog/digital domains |
| Deep Sleep Current | 0.12µA (wake-up from digital I/O) - enables >10-year battery life in intermittent-sensing applications like smart switches |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -95dBm @ 250kbps - ensures robust link budget in noisy 2.4GHz ISM band for home automation mesh networks |
| Transmit Power | +2.5dBm - balances range and regulatory compliance (FCC/ETSI) without external PA |
| CPU Clock Speed | Programmable 1/2/4/8/16/32MHz - allows dynamic trade-off between real-time protocol processing latency and power consumption |
Pinout & Package
Package: HVQFN40 (6×6 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), lead-free and RoHS compliant per SOT618-1 specification. Exposed paddle (VSSA) must be soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and RF performance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| XTAL_IN / XTAL_OUT | 32MHz crystal oscillator interface | Drives system clock generator; requires external 32MHz crystal and load capacitors for stable timing of MAC/PHY operations |
| RF_IN | Single-ended RF input | Connects to matching network (2 inductors + capacitor) for 50Ω microstrip antenna feed; enables integrated transceiver operation |
| VCOTUNE / IBIAS | VCO tuning & bias control | Supports frequency calibration and radio bias current setting; requires external RC network (43kΩ to ground for IBIAS) |
| DIO0–DIO19 | Configurable digital I/O | 20 pins with multiplexed functions: ADC inputs (ADC1–ADC4), comparator (COMP1P/COMP1M), PWM outputs, UART/SPI/I²C signals, pulse counters, and antenna diversity control |
| VDD1 / VDD2 | Separate analog/digital supplies | VDD1 powers ADC/comparator/radio analog blocks; VDD2 powers CPU/peripherals; each requires local 100nF decoupling + shared 10µF bulk capacitor |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware AES-CCM Security Engine | Offloads 128-bit encryption/authentication per IEEE 802.15.4-2006, eliminating software overhead and ensuring deterministic MIC/ENC timing for secure mesh joining |
| Antenna Diversity (Auto RX) | Switches between two antennas based on real-time received signal energy detection - improves link reliability in multipath indoor environments without host intervention |
| Time-of-Flight Ranging Engine | Enables sub-meter distance measurement between nodes using synchronized radio timestamps - supports proximity-aware lighting and occupancy sensing |
| Integrated Temperature & Battery Sensors | On-die temperature sensor ±2°C accuracy and supply monitor with 8 programmable thresholds - enables self-calibration and low-battery alerts without external components |
| Infra-Red Remote Transmitter | Dedicated IR modulation path driven by PWM timer - allows single-chip implementation of hybrid RF+IR remotes compatible with legacy AV equipment |
Applications
| Smart Lighting Control | ZigBee Smart Energy Metering |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Wireless wall switch controlling LED luminaires via ZigBee Light Link in residential retrofit installations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: JN5168/001,515 acts as end-device coordinator with integrated stack, managing button debouncing, RF packet assembly, and OTA firmware updates. Use Value: Deep sleep current of 0.12µA enables >12-year CR2032 battery life; antenna diversity maintains link during handover between rooms. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered gas/water meter transmitting consumption data hourly to utility concentrator via ZigBee SE network. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: JN5168/001,515 serves as secure endpoint node, performing AES-encrypted payload generation, time-synchronized beacon listening, and low-power wake-up scheduling. Use Value: Hardware AES engine ensures FIPS-compliant security without CPU penalty; 2.4GHz O-QPSK provides interference resilience in industrial RF environments. |
| RF4CE Remote Control | Self-Powered Light Switch |
Use Scenario: Universal TV remote supporting voice commands and gesture navigation via RF4CE protocol stack. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: JN5168/001,515 executes RF4CE profile handling, IR transmitter control, and capacitive touch matrix scanning for multi-key input. Use Value: Integrated IR transmitter eliminates discrete emitter driver; 5 PWM timers enable simultaneous RGB LED feedback and IR carrier generation. | Use Scenario: Energy-harvesting light switch generating power from mechanical press to transmit ON/OFF command via JenNet-IP. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: JN5168/001,515 operates in ultra-low-power event-driven mode, waking only on piezo-generated interrupt to send encrypted unicast packet. Use Value: 0.6µA sleep timer mode enables precise wake-up alignment with energy harvesting burst; 4kB EEPROM stores device credentials across power cycles. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| EM3581-RTR | 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 core, 256kB Flash/32kB RAM, same IEEE 802.15.4 radio but no Time-of-Flight engine or antenna diversity | Lacks integrated ranging and auto-diversity; requires external components for IR transmission | Preferred when ARM toolchain compatibility is required and ToF/diversity are non-critical |
| JN5178-001 | Successor IC with enhanced 2.4GHz radio (-102dBm sensitivity), 512kB Flash/64kB RAM, and improved power efficiency (0.08µA deep sleep) | Backward-compatible pinout and software API, but higher cost and newer qualification status | Recommended for new designs requiring extended range or future-proof memory headroom |
Compared with EM3581-RTR, JN5168/001,515 delivers superior RF robustness via antenna diversity and adds ToF-based spatial awareness; versus JN5178-001, it offers proven field reliability and lower BOM cost where advanced features are unnecessary.
Availability
JN5168/001,515 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart lighting control, ZigBee Smart Energy metering, and RF4CE remote control applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.
Supply support for JN5168/001,515 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 markets, with headquarters in Eindhoven, Netherlands.
The JN516x product line was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, standards-compliant wireless mesh networking in resource-constrained battery-operated devices - targeting home automation, smart energy, and remote control use cases.
FAQ
What wireless protocols does the JN5168/001,515 natively support?
The JN5168/001,515 supports IEEE 802.15.4-2006 PHY/MAC layer out-of-the-box and includes certified protocol stacks for ZigBee PRO, ZigBee Smart Energy, ZigBee Light Link, RF4CE, and JenNet-IP. These stacks are delivered as pre-compiled libraries in the NXP JN516x SDK, enabling rapid development without implementing MAC or security layers manually. The JN5168/001,515 does not support Bluetooth LE or Thread.
Does the JN5168/001,515 require external components for basic IEEE 802.15.4 operation?
Yes - the JN5168/001,515 requires an external 32MHz crystal with load capacitors for system clocking, a 32kHz crystal or RC oscillator for sleep timing, and a minimal RF matching network (two inductors and one capacitor) on the RF_IN pin to interface with a 50Ω antenna. The datasheet specifies total external component cost under $0.15, excluding antenna and crystal.
How many digital I/O pins does the JN5168/001,515 provide, and what peripherals can they multiplex?
The JN5168/001,515 provides 20 digital I/O pins (DIO0–DIO19), each supporting up to five alternate functions including SPI chip selects, UART signals, PWM outputs, timer capture/clock inputs, pulse counter inputs, antenna diversity control, and JTAG debug signals. Pin configuration is managed entirely in software via the NXP Peripheral API, with no hardware strapping required.
What is the guaranteed minimum endurance of the on-chip EEPROM in the JN5168/001,515?
The JN5168/001,515 includes 4kB of EEPROM with guaranteed 100,000 write/erase cycles and 10-year data retention at 85°C. This is validated per JEDEC JESD22-A117 stress testing and applies to all 4kB sectors. The EEPROM is accessed via dedicated controller registers and supports byte-level writes without block erasure.
Can the JN5168/001,515 operate from a single CR2032 coin cell throughout its lifetime?
Yes - with optimized firmware (deep sleep between events, duty-cycled radio, disabled unused peripherals), the JN5168/001,515 achieves 0.12µA deep sleep current and 15mA TX current, enabling >10 years of operation on a standard CR2032 (220mAh) in typical smart switch applications. Runtime validation is documented in NXP Application Note AN12242 using JN5168/001,515 reference design.
JN5168/001,515 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 40-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4
- Protocol:
- ZigbeePRO®
- Modulation:
- O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 1Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 2.5dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -96dBm
- Memory Size:
- 256kB Flash, 4kB EEPROM, 32kB RAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- I2C, JTAG, SPI, UART
- GPIO:
- 20
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 17mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 15.3mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 40-HVQFN (6x6)
JN5168/001,515 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for JN5168/001,515 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for JN5168/001,515 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for JN5168/001,515 reliable?
The price and inventory of JN5168/001,515 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for JN5168/001,515 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for JN5168/001,515?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for JN5168/001,515 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for JN5168/001,515?
JN5168/001,515 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your JN5168/001,515 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for JN5168/001,515?
For technical support, including JN5168/001,515 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your JN5168/001,515 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that JN5168/001,515 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All JN5168/001,515 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that JN5168/001,515 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of JN5168/001,515?
All JN5168/001,515 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with JN5168/001,515, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The JN5168/001,515 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for JN5168/001,515:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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