NXP Semiconductors MCIMX31LVKN5B

Overview

MCIMX31LVKN5B from NXP (formerly Freescale) is a multimedia applications processor built around an ARM1136JF-S core, operating up to 532 MHz with 16 KB instruction and 16 KB data L1 caches, 128 KB L2 cache, and integrated MPEG-4 hardware encoder supporting VGA@30 fps video encoding. It targets portable media players, feature-rich cellular phones, and wireless PDAs requiring low-power, high-performance processing.

For engineers reviewing the MCIMX31LVKN5B datasheet, MCIMX31LVKN5B pinout, MCIMX31LVKN5B application, or MCIMX31LVKN5B equivalent, key selection considerations include its 14 × 14 mm MAPBGA-457 package, dual-Vt 90 nm process, DVFS/DPTC power management, and absence of GPU (MCIMX31L variant).

Technical Context

The MCIMX31LVKN5B implements the ARM v6 architecture with Jazelle® Java acceleration, SIMD DSP extensions, and an eight-stage pipeline with branch prediction. Its memory subsystem integrates 16 KB I-cache, 16 KB D-cache, 128 KB unified L2 cache, 32 KB ROM, and 16 KB SRAM - all accessible via AMBA L2 interface and optimized for low-latency multimedia data flow.

Power management relies on dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS), domain-level clock gating, and power gating across multiple independent domains. The chip supports DDR, NAND Flash, NOR Flash, SDRAM, and SRAM interfaces, alongside USB 2.0 OTG, ATA, MMC/SDIO, and three CSPI controllers for peripheral expansion.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MCIMX31LVKN5B uses a 14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch MAPBGA package with 457 balls (Case 1581). This RoHS-compliant, lead-free package has MSL Level 3 and supports reflow at 260°C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCIMX31VKN5B, MCIMX31LVKN5B removes GPU to reduce die size, leakage, and BOM cost - ideal for cost-sensitive media players. Versus i.MX353, it offers proven maturity and simpler migration from earlier i.MX31 designs but lacks HAB and advanced power states.

Availability

MCIMX31LVKN5B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable media players, feature-rich cellular phones, and wireless PDAs requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle consumer electronics programs.

Supply support for MCIMX31LVKN5B 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 (formerly Freescale Semiconductor) is a global leader in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications, with deep expertise in ARM-based application processors and mixed-signal SoCs.

The i.MX31 product line was designed specifically for battery-powered portable multimedia devices, emphasizing low-power operation through 90 nm dual-Vt process, aggressive DVFS, and autonomous hardware accelerators for video, audio, and imaging.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MCIMX31LVKN5B and under what conditions?

The MCIMX31LVKN5B supports a maximum core frequency of 532 MHz in overdrive mode, requiring core supply voltage between 1.47 V and 1.65 V. Operation above 1.47 V is limited to a cumulative duration of ≤10,950 hours (1.25 years) to prevent device degradation. For continuous operation, 400 MHz at 1.22–1.47 V is recommended per datasheet Table 8.

Does the MCIMX31LVKN5B include a graphics processing unit (GPU)?

No, the MCIMX31LVKN5B does not include a GPU. As indicated in the Freescale data sheet Rev. 4.1, the "L" suffix denotes the MCIMX31L variant, which omits the GPU present in the standard MCIMX31. This makes MCIMX31LVKN5B suitable for applications where 2D/3D graphics acceleration is unnecessary or handled externally.

What package type and ball count does the MCIMX31LVKN5B use?

The MCIMX31LVKN5B uses a 14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch MAPBGA package with 457 balls (Case 1581). This RoHS-compliant, lead-free package meets MSL Level 3 and is qualified for reflow soldering at 260°C, as specified in the Freescale MCIMX31 data sheet Section "Package Information".

Which memory types are supported by the MCIMX31LVKN5B's external memory interface?

The MCIMX31LVKN5B supports DDR SDRAM, NAND Flash, NOR Flash, PSRAM, SDRAM, and SRAM via its integrated External Memory Interface (EMI). The EMI includes dedicated controllers for SDRAM, NAND, and WEIM (for NOR/PSRAM), enabling flexible, high-bandwidth memory configurations in portable devices.

How does the MCIMX31LVKN5B implement power management for battery-operated devices?

The MCIMX31LVKN5B implements power management via Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS), domain-level clock gating, and power gating across multiple independent power domains. It also includes a 16 KB SRAM with state retention capability at 0.95 V, allowing ultra-low-power suspend modes while preserving context - critical for long standby in portable media players and cellular handsets.