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NXP Semiconductors MIMXRT1021CAF4B
- Part No.:
- MIMXRT1021CAF4B
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 100-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MIMXRT1021CAF4B.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT EXT MEM 100LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,524
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Product details
Overview
MIMXRT1021CAF4B from NXP Semiconductors is an Arm® Cortex®-M7-based crossover processor operating at 396 MHz, featuring 256 KB on-chip RAM (configurable as TCM or OCRAM), dual FlexCAN interfaces, 100-pin LQFP package, and integrated DCDC/LDO power management for industrial embedded applications including motor control and IoT edge nodes.
For engineers reviewing the MIMXRT1021CAF4B datasheet, MIMXRT1021CAF4B pinout, MIMXRT1021CAF4B application, or MIMXRT1021CAF4B equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, package mapping, real-world use scenarios, and validated alternative options aligned with industrial temperature (-40°C to +105°C) and functional requirements.
Technical Context
The MIMXRT1021CAF4B implements a single Arm Cortex-M7 core with 16 KB I-cache, 16 KB D-cache, and VFPv5 FPU, targeting deterministic real-time response in resource-constrained industrial systems. Its memory subsystem includes 96 KB boot ROM and 256 KB flexible on-chip RAM, with no SEMC support-unlike the 144-pin variants-limiting external parallel memory expansion.
It integrates two FlexCAN 2.0B controllers, one USB 2.0 OTG with PHY, one RMII-only Ethernet controller, three SAI modules, SPDIF, and dual 12-bit ADCs (10 channels total), while omitting the SEMC and second uSDHC interface present in the 144-pin LQFP variant-reflecting its optimized footprint for cost-sensitive, connectivity-focused designs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | Arm Cortex-M7 @ 396 MHz with FPU, MPU, and CoreSight debug - enables high-throughput deterministic control without Linux overhead. |
| On-Chip Memory | 256 KB RAM configurable as I-TCM/D-TCM/OCRAM in 32 KB blocks - supports tight-loop real-time code and data separation. |
| Package & Pin Count | 100-pin LQFP, 14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch - reduces PCB area and routing complexity vs. 144-pin variant; supports 57 GPIOs. |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +105°C junction - qualified for industrial environments including factory automation and motor drives. |
| Connectivity Peripherals | Dual FlexCAN 2.0B, USB OTG (HS), RMII Ethernet, 3× SAI, SPDIF, 8× LPUART, 4× LPI2C, 4× LPSPI - enables multi-protocol fieldbus and audio edge node integration. |
| Analog Integration | 2× 12-bit ADC (10 total channels), 4× analog comparators - supports sensor monitoring and closed-loop analog feedback without external ICs. |
| Power Management | Integrated DCDC converter (0.9–1.0 V standby, 0.9–1.3 V run) and LDOs - eliminates need for external PMIC, simplifying power sequencing. |
Pinout & Package
100-pin LQFP, 14 × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch - thermally and electrically optimized for industrial PCB layouts with standard reflow profiles and manual inspection capability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD_SOC | Core Power Supply | 1.0–1.3 V supply for Cortex-M7 core and TCM; requires local low-ESR decoupling near pin. |
| VDDA | Analog Power Supply | 3.3 V analog domain supply for ADC, ACMP, and reference circuits; must be filtered separately from digital rails. |
| RTC_XTALI / RTC_XTALO | Real-Time Clock Oscillator Interface | Accepts 32.768 kHz crystal (≤100 kΩ ESR, 10 pF load); enables autonomous RTC operation during low-power modes. |
| ENET_RXD0 / ENET_RXD1 | Ethernet Receive Data | RMII-mode differential pair inputs; require 50 Ω series termination and controlled impedance routing. |
| FLEXCAN1_TX / FLEXCAN1_RX | CAN Bus Transceiver Interface | Direct connection to external CAN transceiver (e.g., TJA1042); supports 1 Mbps baud rate with built-in loopback test mode. |
| USB_OTG1_DP / USB_OTG1_DM | USB 2.0 High-Speed Differential Pair | Integrated HS PHY; requires 90 Ω differential impedance and <15 mm trace length for signal integrity compliance. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Flexible RAM Allocation | 256 KB on-chip RAM partitioned in 32 KB increments between I-TCM, D-TCM, and OCRAM - enables cache-aware real-time task scheduling and zero-wait-state execution. |
| Dual FlexCAN 2.0B Support | Two independent CAN controllers with message RAM, FIFO, and loopback mode - allows redundant bus communication or multi-network gateway functionality. |
| Hardware Security Acceleration | DCP (AES-128, SHA-256), BEE (on-the-fly QSPI decryption), TRNG, and SNVS - enables secure boot, encrypted firmware updates, and tamper-resistant key storage. |
| Low-Power Peripheral Set | LPUART, LPI2C, LPSPI all retain operation in STOP mode with appropriate clock gating - extends battery life in always-on sensor hubs and remote I/O modules. |
| Motor Control Ready Timers | Two FlexPWM modules (16 total channels, 16-bit resolution) with fault protection and quadrature encoder inputs - supports BLDC/PMSM drive control without external timer ICs. |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Drive | Smart Home Gateway |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop control of 3-phase BLDC motors in HVAC compressors and industrial pumps using field-oriented control (FOC). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time computation engine executing FOC algorithms at 20 kHz PWM frequency with sub-microsecond interrupt latency via FlexPWM and QDEC peripherals. Use Value: Eliminates need for external DSP or FPGA by integrating 396 MHz M7 core, 16-channel PWM, and dual 12-bit ADCs - reducing BOM count and system latency. |
Use Scenario: Multi-protocol hub aggregating Zigbee, Thread, and BLE sensor data while bridging to Wi-Fi or Ethernet backhaul. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol translation and secure data aggregation unit leveraging dual CAN, USB OTG, RMII Ethernet, and hardware crypto acceleration. Use Value: Enables concurrent protocol stacks with deterministic timing via Cortex-M7 TCM memory and low-power peripherals - extending battery life in battery-powered sensors. |
| Factory Automation I/O Module | Edge-AI Sensor Node |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted remote I/O module collecting analog sensor inputs (temperature, pressure) and driving digital outputs (relays, solenoids) over EtherCAT or Modbus TCP. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Deterministic real-time controller interfacing with industrial fieldbuses via FlexCAN and RMII Ethernet, with ADC and GPIO for local sensing/actuation. Use Value: Integrates 10-channel ADC, 57 GPIOs, and industrial-grade temp range in compact 100-pin LQFP - enabling space-constrained modular I/O design. |
Use Scenario: Vibration and acoustic anomaly detection on rotating machinery using onboard FFT processing and ML inference on time-series sensor data. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Edge AI accelerator running lightweight neural networks on sensor fusion data from ADC, I2S, and SPDIF interfaces with hardware-accelerated crypto for OTA updates. Use Value: Combines 396 MHz M7 performance, 256 KB RAM, and DCP/BEE security - enabling secure, low-latency inference without cloud dependency. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar crossover processor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIMXRT1021CAG4B | 144-pin LQFP, 96 GPIOs, SEMC, dual uSDHC, SDRAM support - larger footprint but broader memory and interface capability. | Suitable for designs requiring external SDRAM, parallel NOR/NAND, or dual SD/eMMC slots - e.g., HMI displays or data loggers. | Select when external memory bandwidth or pin count exceeds MIMXRT1021CAF4B's 100-pin limits; not pin-compatible. |
| MIMXRT1015CVL5B | 100-pin LQFP, 500 MHz Cortex-M7, 128 KB RAM, no Ethernet, no CAN, lower peripheral count - smaller feature set, lower cost. | Targeted at cost-sensitive, non-networked control applications like appliance UI or basic motor control without fieldbus. | Choose for simplified designs where CAN/Ethernet are unnecessary and 128 KB RAM suffices - pinout differs; board redesign required. |
Compared with MIMXRT1021CAG4B, the MIMXRT1021CAF4B trades SEMC and second uSDHC for identical core performance in a smaller footprint, while MIMXRT1015CVL5B reduces both features and memory to target entry-level applications - making MIMXRT1021CAF4B the optimal balance of industrial connectivity, real-time capability, and compact packaging.
Availability
MIMXRT1021CAF4B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart home gateways, and factory automation I/O modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MIMXRT1021CAF4B 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 specializing in secure, high-performance processing solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.
The i.MX RT102x product line delivers Arm Cortex-M7 crossover processors optimized for real-time deterministic performance in industrial edge applications - combining MCU simplicity with application-processor capability.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MIMXRT1021CAF4B?
The MIMXRT1021CAF4B operates at a maximum frequency of 396 MHz. This is a fixed silicon specification confirmed in the official i.MX RT1020 datasheet (Rev. 3.1), and applies across the full industrial temperature range (-40°C to +105°C). The MIMXRT1021CAF4B does not support dynamic frequency scaling beyond this rated speed.
Does the MIMXRT1021CAF4B support external SDRAM?
No, the MIMXRT1021CAF4B does not support external SDRAM. Unlike the 144-pin LQFP variants (e.g., MIMXRT1021CAG4B), the 100-pin LQFP package omits the Smart External Memory Controller (SEMC), which is required for SDRAM, NOR, NAND, and PSRAM interfaces. Only on-chip 256 KB RAM is available for memory expansion.
How many CAN interfaces does the MIMXRT1021CAF4B include?
The MIMXRT1021CAF4B includes two FlexCAN 2.0B controllers, each supporting standard and extended message frames, message RAM, and loopback testing. Both CAN modules are fully functional and independently configurable - enabling dual-bus architectures or redundancy in industrial networking applications.
What is the GPIO count for the MIMXRT1021CAF4B?
The MIMXRT1021CAF4B provides 57 general-purpose I/O pins in its 100-pin LQFP package. This is explicitly documented in Table 1 of the i.MX RT1020 datasheet (Rev. 3.1) and reflects the reduced pin count versus the 96 GPIOs available in the 144-pin variant - a trade-off for smaller footprint and cost.
Is the MIMXRT1021CAF4B pin-compatible with the MIMXRT1021CAG4B?
No, the MIMXRT1021CAF4B is not pin-compatible with the MIMXRT1021CAG4B. They use different packages - 100-pin LQFP (14 × 14 mm) versus 144-pin LQFP (20 × 20 mm) - with distinct pin assignments, power domains, and peripheral mappings. Board layout and schematic changes are required for substitution.
MIMXRT1021CAF4B Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 100-LQFP
- Series:
- RT1020
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M7
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 400MHz
- Connectivity:
- CANbus, EBI/EMI, Ethernet, I2C, MMC/SD/SDIO, SAI, SPDIF, SPI, UART/USART, USB OTG
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, DMA, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 57
- Program Memory Size:
- -
- Program Memory Type:
- External Program Memory
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 256K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 10x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- External, Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MIMXRT1021CAF4B FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MIMXRT1021CAF4B through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MIMXRT1021CAF4B 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 MIMXRT1021CAF4B reliable?
The price and inventory of MIMXRT1021CAF4B are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MIMXRT1021CAF4B is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MIMXRT1021CAF4B?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MIMXRT1021CAF4B transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MIMXRT1021CAF4B?
MIMXRT1021CAF4B orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MIMXRT1021CAF4B 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 MIMXRT1021CAF4B?
For technical support, including MIMXRT1021CAF4B datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MIMXRT1021CAF4B requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MIMXRT1021CAF4B is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MIMXRT1021CAF4B 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 MIMXRT1021CAF4B meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MIMXRT1021CAF4B?
All MIMXRT1021CAF4B units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MIMXRT1021CAF4B, 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 MIMXRT1021CAF4B part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MIMXRT1021CAF4B:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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