NXP Semiconductors MAC7242VAF64R

Overview

MAC7242VAF64R from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM7TDMI-based microcontroller with 512 KB on-chip flash, 64 KB SRAM, and integrated FlexCAN, DSPI, ESCI, eMIOS, and ATD peripherals. It operates at up to 64 MHz, supports multiple low-power modes, and targets automotive body control and industrial real-time control applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAC7242VAF64R datasheet, MAC7242VAF64R pinout, MAC7242VAF64R application, or MAC7242VAF64R equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin LQFP package, dual CAN interface compliance with ISO 11898-1, 12-bit ATD with 16 channels, and support for secured boot modes with JTAG lockout recovery.

Technical Context

The MAC7242VAF64R implements an ARM7TDMI-S core with von Neumann architecture, 3-stage pipeline, and Thumb instruction set support. It integrates a PLL-based clock generation system supporting ALC PLL mode (up to 64 MHz core clock), external crystal (4–32 MHz), or external clock input.

Its memory subsystem includes 512 KB flash with 8 KB sector erase, 64 KB SRAM, and configurable FlexBus interface for external memory expansion. Peripheral interconnect uses a hierarchical AHB/APB bridge, with dedicated DMA channels for ATD and DSPI transfers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAC7242VAF64R is housed in a 64-pin LQFP package with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are multiplexed across five I/O ports (PA–PG), supporting flexible peripheral mapping and GPIO configuration.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with S9KEAZ128AMLH and MPC5604B, the MAC7242VAF64R offers ARM7TDMI software compatibility, higher SRAM (64 KB vs. 16/48 KB), and full dual-CAN plus eMIOS flexibility - making it optimal for new automotive body control designs requiring long-term toolchain stability and functional safety extensibility.

Availability

MAC7242VAF64R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC terminals, and off-highway telematics hubs requiring stable component supply, long lifecycle support, and qualified automotive-grade sourcing.

Supply support for MAC7242VAF64R 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 company formed from the spin-off of Philips' semiconductor division, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.

The MAC7200 family - including MAC7242VAF64R - was designed for automotive body electronics and industrial real-time control, emphasizing functional safety readiness, dual-CAN networking, and low-power deterministic execution.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MAC7242VAF64R?

The MAC7242VAF64R operates at a maximum core frequency of 64 MHz when using the internal PLL in ALC PLL mode with a 16 MHz crystal. This frequency is sustained across the full industrial temperature range (−40°C to +125°C) and supports deterministic interrupt latency critical for automotive control loops. The MAC7242VAF64R achieves this performance while maintaining ARM7TDMI instruction cycle compatibility and low power consumption in Doze mode.

Does the MAC7242VAF64R support secure firmware updates?

Yes, the MAC7242VAF64R supports secure firmware updates through its Secured Single Chip and Secured Primary Bootloader modes. These modes disable JTAG access after boot, prevent flash readout via background debug mode, and enforce signature verification for external code loading. The MAC7242VAF64R implements hardware-based security features aligned with early automotive functional safety practices, though formal ASIL certification requires system-level validation.

How many CAN interfaces does the MAC7242VAF64R integrate?

The MAC7242VAF64R integrates two independent FlexCAN modules compliant with ISO 11898-1, each supporting bit rates up to 1 Mbps and full CAN 2.0B protocol. Both modules feature message buffers, error counters, and loopback self-test modes. The MAC7242VAF64R assigns FlexCAN_A to PG[4]/PG[5] and FlexCAN_B to PG[6]/PG[7], enabling concurrent network participation without shared resources.

What type of ADC is included in the MAC7242VAF64R?

The MAC7242VAF64R includes a 12-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ATD) with 16 input channels, configurable sample-and-hold timing, and hardware averaging across up to 8 conversions. It supports both single-ended and differential input modes and interfaces directly to the PE port pins. The MAC7242VAF64R's ATD meets automotive sensor interface requirements, including temperature, pressure, and position sensing, with typical INL of ±1 LSB.

Is the MAC7242VAF64R pin-compatible with other MAC7200 family members?

No, the MAC7242VAF64R is not fully pin-compatible with other MAC7200 family members such as MAC7241 or PAC7212 due to differences in peripheral mapping, power pin allocation, and package variant (e.g., 64-pin LQFP vs. 80-pin QFP). While core register sets and memory maps are consistent across the family, PCB layout must be verified per specific mask set and pinout diagram in the MAC7200RM Rev. 2 reference manual for the MAC7242VAF64R.