NXP Semiconductors MK10DX256VLQ10

Overview

MK10DX256VLQ10 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extensions, designed for embedded control applications requiring real-time signal processing, mixed-signal integration, and low-power operation. It features 256 KB on-chip flash memory, 128 KB RAM, dual 16-bit SAR ADCs with integrated PGA, two 12-bit DACs, two CAN interfaces, and operates across –40°C to 105°C at up to 100 MHz.

For engineers reviewing the MK10DX256VLQ10 datasheet, MK10DX256VLQ10 pinout, MK10DX256VLQ10 application, or MK10DX256VLQ10 equivalent, key selection considerations include its FlexMemory architecture (256 KB flash + 4 KB FlexRAM), 144-pin LQFP package, dual CAN support, TSI touch interface, and verified operation in industrial motor control, medical sensor hubs, and automotive body electronics.

Technical Context

The MK10DX256VLQ10 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with hardware DSP instructions and single-cycle MAC, enabling deterministic execution of filter algorithms and motor control loops. Its clock system integrates a multi-purpose clock generator (MCG) supporting internal/external oscillators (3–32 MHz and 32 kHz), PLL-based frequency multiplication, and dynamic low-power mode transitions.

Peripherals are organized around a high-bandwidth crossbar switch, enabling concurrent access to flash, RAM, and peripherals without bus contention. The device uses FlexBus for external memory expansion and supports EzPort for serial programming, while security is enforced via a memory protection unit (MPU), hardware CRC engine, and 128-bit unique chip ID.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 144-pin LQFP (20 mm × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK10DX256VLQ10, MKE15Z256VLH7 trades CAN and DSP capability for lower cost and power, while MIMXRT1021DAG5A replaces integrated flash with external memory flexibility and significantly higher compute throughput - making MK10DX256VLQ10 optimal for balanced real-time control with mixed-signal integration and self-contained firmware execution.

Availability

MK10DX256VLQ10 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, medical sensor hubs, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MK10DX256VLQ10 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with leadership in ARM-based microcontrollers and radar technology.

The Kinetis K10 family, including MK10DX256VLQ10, was engineered for cost-effective, low-power embedded control in safety-critical and mixed-signal environments - emphasizing analog integration, real-time responsiveness, and qualification for harsh operating conditions.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency and core type of the MK10DX256VLQ10?

The MK10DX256VLQ10 features an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP extensions, rated for operation up to 100 MHz. This delivers 1.25 Dhrystone MIPS per MHz (125 DMIPS), enabling efficient execution of digital signal processing tasks such as motor control algorithms, audio filtering, and sensor fusion. The core includes single-cycle MAC and SIMD instructions, and the MK10DX256VLQ10 achieves this performance within its specified voltage (1.71–3.6 V) and temperature (–40°C to 105°C) ranges.

Does the MK10DX256VLQ10 support CAN communication, and how many interfaces are available?

Yes, the MK10DX256VLQ10 integrates two Controller Area Network (CAN) modules compliant with ISO 11898-1, supporting bit rates up to 1 Mbps. Each CAN controller includes dedicated TX/RX pins and full message buffering with acceptance filtering. These interfaces are used in automotive body control units and industrial fieldbus gateways, and the MK10DX256VLQ10's dual-CAN capability enables simultaneous communication on separate networks without software arbitration overhead.

What analog peripherals are included in the MK10DX256VLQ10, and what are their key specifications?

The MK10DX256VLQ10 includes two 16-bit SAR ADCs (each with integrated programmable gain amplifier up to ×64), two 12-bit DACs, three analog comparators (each with 6-bit DAC and programmable reference), and a voltage reference module. These peripherals support simultaneous sampling, hardware-triggered conversions, and low-noise operation down to 1.71 V supply. Their design enables direct interfacing with precision sensors and actuators - a capability confirmed in the K10 Sub-Family Data Sheet Rev. 3 for the MK10DX256VLQ10 variant.

What package type and pin count does the MK10DX256VLQ10 use?

The MK10DX256VLQ10 uses a 144-pin LQFP package (20 mm × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), designated by the "LQ" suffix in its part number. This package provides full access to all GPIO, analog, and communication peripherals, supports standard reflow profiles (MSL3), and is compatible with automated optical inspection and in-circuit test fixtures. Pin assignments are documented in Section 8 of the K10 Sub-Family Data Sheet, and the MK10DX256VLQ10 shares this footprint with other K10 family members including MK10DN512VLQ10.

How does the FlexMemory architecture of the MK10DX256VLQ10 differ from standard flash-only MCUs?

The MK10DX256VLQ10 implements FlexMemory, combining 256 KB program flash with 4 KB FlexRAM and optional FlexNVM partitioning. Unlike standard flash-only MCUs, FlexRAM behaves as true EEPROM - supporting byte-level writes, 100k+ endurance cycles, and zero-latency read/write - enabling reliable data logging, parameter storage, and firmware update staging without external memory. This architecture is explicitly defined for the MK10DX256VLQ10 in the K10 Sub-Family Data Sheet and distinguishes it from non-Flex variants like MK10DN512.