NXP Semiconductors LS1023ASN8PQB

Overview

LS1023ASN8PQB from NXP Semiconductors is a dual-core, 64-bit ARM Cortex-A53 communications processor designed for embedded networking and industrial infrastructure. It delivers >10 Gb/s packet processing via DPAA acceleration, integrates a 1 MB L2 cache, supports DDR3L/DDR4 memory, and operates at up to 1.2 GHz per core in fanless designs.

For engineers reviewing the LS1023ASN8PQB datasheet, LS1023ASN8PQB pinout, LS1023ASN8PQB application, or LS1023ASN8PQB equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-core 64-bit ARM architecture, integrated Frame Manager with IEEE 1588 support, SEC 5.4 security engine, SerDes-based multi-protocol I/O (up to 6× Gigabit Ethernet), and hardware virtualization support via SMMU and CoreLink CCI-400.

Technical Context

The LS1023ASN8PQB implements two 64-bit ARM Cortex-A53 cores clocked up to 1.2 GHz, each with 32 KB L1 instruction and data caches, backed by a shared 1 MB L2 cache. It uses CoreLink CCI-400 for cache coherency and integrates an SMMU for I/O memory management in virtualized environments.

Networking is handled by a hardware-accelerated Frame Manager supporting up to six Gigabit Ethernet ports with IEEE 1588 v2 timestamping, packet parsing/classification/policing, and inline IPsec via the integrated Security Engine (SEC 5.4). The 4-lane 10 GHz SerDes enables configurable interfaces including PCIe Gen2, SATA 3.0, and QSGMII.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LS1023ASN8PQB is housed in a 23 x 23 mm, 621-pin FC-BGA package (S-PBGA-N621) with 0.8 mm ball pitch. Pin functions are defined per the LS1023A Reference Manual Rev. 6, including dedicated SerDes lanes, DDR3L/4 DQ/DQS/CK pins, and multiplexed I/O for USB 3.0, PCIe, SATA, QuadSPI, and IFC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar communications processor applications.

Compared with LS1023ASN8PQB, the LS1043ASN7PQB offers greater CPU throughput at higher power, while the LS1026ASN7PQB delivers superior instructions-per-cycle for deterministic real-time workloads - both retain identical I/O compatibility and security features, enabling reuse of driver stacks and board layout where thermal and performance margins allow.

Availability

LS1023ASN8PQB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for branch office routers, industrial PLC controllers, vCPE gateways, and multi-protocol IoT edge devices requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial lifecycle support.

Supply support for LS1023ASN8PQB 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 deep expertise in ARM-based communications processors and edge computing SoCs.

The QorIQ LS series - including LS1023ASN8PQB - was engineered specifically for space-constrained, fanless networking and industrial control applications, emphasizing BOM optimization, hardware-accelerated packet processing, and long-term availability in extended temperature grades.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the LS1023ASN8PQB?

The LS1023ASN8PQB operates at up to 1.2 GHz per ARM Cortex-A53 core. This frequency is guaranteed across the full industrial temperature range (−40°C to +105°C) with appropriate voltage scaling and thermal design. The LS1023ASN8PQB datasheet specifies 1.2 GHz as the maximum rated frequency under worst-case junction temperature conditions.

Does the LS1023ASN8PQB support DDR4 memory?

Yes, the LS1023ASN8PQB supports both DDR3L and DDR4 memory via its 32-bit memory controller. DDR4 operation is validated up to 2400 MT/s, enabling higher bandwidth and lower power per bit compared to DDR3L - a key advantage for memory-intensive packet buffering and control plane applications.

How many Gigabit Ethernet ports does the LS1023ASN8PQB support?

The LS1023ASN8PQB supports up to six Gigabit Ethernet ports using its integrated SerDes and Frame Manager. These are implemented as six SGMII interfaces, optionally consolidated into fewer physical ports using a QSGMII PHY like the F104. All ports include hardware IEEE 1588 v2 timestamping for precision timing applications.

Is the LS1023ASN8PQB pin-compatible with the LS1043A series?

No, the LS1023ASN8PQB is not pin-compatible with LS1043A-series processors. Although both share the same FC-BGA-621 package footprint and many signal groups, differences in SerDes lane mapping, power rail requirements, and peripheral pin multiplexing prevent direct PCB replacement without layout revision.

What security features are integrated into the LS1023ASN8PQB?

The LS1023ASN8PQB integrates SEC 5.4 for cryptographic acceleration (AES-128/256, SHA-1/256, RSA-2048/4096), TrustZone for hardware-enforced secure world isolation, and immutable secure boot with eFuse-based key storage. These features enable FIPS-compliant IPsec, TLS, and secure firmware updates without external security chips.