NXP Semiconductors MCF51QU64VLF

Overview

MCF51QU64VLF from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ColdFire V1 microcontroller with 64 KB on-chip flash, 12-bit ADC/DAC, and integrated low-power timers for embedded control applications in industrial sensors and motor drives. It operates from 1.71 V to 3.6 V across –40°C to 105°C, supports up to 50 MHz core frequency, and integrates FlexNVM, Mini-FlexBus, and EzPort for firmware updates.

For engineers reviewing the MCF51QU64VLF datasheet, MCF51QU64VLF pinout, MCF51QU64VLF application, or MCF51QU64VLF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 48-pin LQFP-48 package, 10 low-power modes, hardware CRC module, TSI touch interface, and compatibility with ColdFire DEBUG_Rev_B+ single-wire BDM debugging.

Technical Context

The MCF51QU64VLF implements a ColdFire V1 CPU core delivering 0.99 DMIPS/MHz when executing from flash memory and features a multipurpose clock generator (MCG) supporting crystal oscillators at 1 kHz–32 MHz across three frequency bands. Its system architecture includes four-channel DMA, integrated voltage regulator (VREG), and low-leakage wakeup unit (LLWU) for deterministic low-power operation.

Peripherals include dual UARTs with Smart Card support and FIFO, two SPI modules (one with FIFO), two I²C interfaces, programmable delay block (PDB), six FTM timer channels, four 16-bit LPTMRs, and a carrier modulator transmitter (CMT). Analog subsystem comprises a 12-bit SAR ADC, 12-bit DAC, analog comparator with 6-bit DAC, and voltage reference (VREF).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin LQFP (7 mm × 7 mm), lead-free, RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3 per J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCF51QU64VLF, the K22FN512VLH12 offers superior compute density but increases BOM complexity and power in deep-sleep states, while the MCF51JM128VLF provides flash headroom at the expense of FlexNVM-based wear-leveling for data storage - making MCF51QU64VLF optimal for balanced cost, power, and integrated feature sets in mid-tier industrial control.

Availability

MCF51QU64VLF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, motor control modules, smart metering endpoints, and automotive body controllers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MCF51QU64VLF 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, now specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.

The MCF51QU64VLF belongs to NXP's ColdFire QU-series microcontrollers, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, ultra-low-power embedded control applications demanding high analog integration, robust debug capability, and long-term supply stability in harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MCF51QU64VLF core?

The MCF51QU64VLF ColdFire V1 core operates at up to 50 MHz in normal run mode, delivering 0.99 DMIPS per MHz when executing from flash memory. In Very Low-Power Run (VLPR) mode, the maximum core frequency is reduced to 2 MHz to minimize active power consumption while retaining full peripheral functionality.

Does the MCF51QU64VLF support in-system programming without a debugger?

Yes, the MCF51QU64VLF supports in-system programming via its EzPort serial interface - a single-pin SPI-compatible port that enables firmware updates using only a UART-to-SPI bridge or custom host controller, eliminating dependency on BDM hardware during field deployment or manufacturing test.

What analog peripherals are integrated into the MCF51QU64VLF?

The MCF51QU64VLF integrates a 12-bit SAR ADC with up to 16 channels, a 12-bit DAC, an analog comparator (CMP) with embedded 6-bit DAC and programmable reference input, and a precision voltage reference (VREF) module - enabling complete analog signal acquisition, conditioning, and actuation without external components.

How many low-power modes does the MCF51QU64VLF provide, and what is the lowest achievable current?

The MCF51QU64VLF provides 10 configurable low-power modes, including VLLS1–VLLS3. In VLLS3 mode at 3.0 V and –40°C to 25°C ambient, the device draws as little as 1.8 μA - ideal for battery-powered applications requiring years of operation between replacements or recharges.

Is the MCF51QU64VLF pin-compatible with other members of the MCF51QU family?

No, the MCF51QU64VLF is not pin-compatible with higher-memory variants like MCF51QU128VLH or MCF51QU128VHS due to differing package footprints (LQFP-48 vs. LQFP-64). However, it shares identical pinout and signal mapping with other 48-pin LQFP variants in the family, including MCF51QU64VHS and MCF51QU32VHS.