NXP Semiconductors MK20DN64VLF5

Overview

MK20DN64VLF5 from NXP (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 core microcontroller with DSP extensions, designed for embedded control applications requiring real-time signal processing and low-power operation. It delivers 1.25 Dhrystone MIPS per MHz at up to 50 MHz, integrates 64 KB program flash, 16 KB RAM, and operates across –40°C to 105°C in a 48-pin LQFP package. It is used in industrial motor control systems where deterministic timing, analog sensing, and USB connectivity are required.

For engineers reviewing the MK20DN64VLF5 datasheet, MK20DN64VLF5 pinout, MK20DN64VLF5 application, or MK20DN64VLF5 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 MHz Cortex-M4 core with DSP, 16-bit SAR ADC, USB On-The-Go controller, low-power stop modes down to 0.176 µA, and support for FlexMemory architecture in compatible variants - though this specific part uses program flash only (N suffix).

Technical Context

The MK20DN64VLF5 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with hardware DSP instructions and single-cycle MAC operations, enabling efficient digital filtering and sensor fusion. Its clock system includes a 3–32 MHz crystal oscillator, 32 kHz RTC oscillator, and multi-purpose clock generator supporting dynamic frequency scaling across run, wait, VLPR, and multiple stop modes.

Peripherals include an 8-channel PWM timer with motor control capability, two quadrature decoder timers, a 16-bit low-power timer, real-time clock, and communication interfaces: USB full-/low-speed OTG, three UARTs, SPI, I²C, and I²S. Analog subsystem comprises a 16-bit SAR ADC, two comparators with integrated 6-bit DACs, and voltage reference.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin LQFP (7 mm × 7 mm), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL3).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK20DN64VLF5, MK20DX64VLF5 adds FlexMemory for robust data logging, while MK20DN128VLF5 provides scalable code space - both retain identical timing, I/O, and low-power behavior, enabling drop-in PCB reuse where flash/RAM headroom justifies the upgrade.

Availability

MK20DN64VLF5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart energy metering, medical patient monitoring, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MK20DN64VLF5 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 focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep expertise in ARM-based microcontrollers and safety-critical systems.

The Kinetis K20 family, including MK20DN64VLF5, was designed for cost-sensitive, high-reliability embedded control applications demanding real-time performance, analog integration, and ultra-low-power operation in harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK20DN64VLF5?

The MK20DN64VLF5 operates at a maximum system and core clock frequency of 50 MHz, as specified in the K20 Sub-Family Data Sheet (Rev. 4, May 2012). This frequency is achievable across the full –40°C to 105°C temperature range when supplied within the 1.71 V to 3.6 V voltage range and with appropriate clock source configuration (e.g., using the MCG in PEE mode with a 3–32 MHz crystal). The MK20DN64VLF5 does not support frequencies above 50 MHz.

Does the MK20DN64VLF5 include a hardware floating-point unit (FPU)?

No, the MK20DN64VLF5 does not include a hardware FPU. Its part number suffix "D" indicates an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP extensions only; FPU-equipped variants use the "F" suffix (e.g., MK20FN64VLF5). The MK20DN64VLF5 supports single-cycle MAC, SIMD, and other DSP instructions but relies on software libraries for floating-point arithmetic, which impacts latency and code size in math-intensive applications.

What is the flash memory configuration of the MK20DN64VLF5?

The MK20DN64VLF5 contains 64 KB of program flash memory only, as indicated by the "N" in its part number (per K20 Sub-Family Data Sheet Section 2.3). It does not include FlexMemory (FlexNVM/FlexRAM), unlike "X"-suffix variants such as MK20DX64VLF5. Flash is organized for reliable erase/write cycling and supports secure boot, read-while-write, and error correction features defined in the device's flash controller specification.

Can the MK20DN64VLF5 operate from a single 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the MK20DN64VLF5 is fully operational with a single 3.3 V supply applied to both VDD and VDDA pins, provided VDD–VDDA differential remains within ±0.1 V (per Table 1, Section 5.2.1). This configuration satisfies all operating requirements for digital logic, analog peripherals (ADC, comparators), and USB transceiver operation, making it suitable for standard 3.3 V industrial and consumer designs without split-rail supplies.

Is the MK20DN64VLF5 pin-compatible with other K20 family members?

Yes, the MK20DN64VLF5 is pin-compatible with other 48-pin LQFP K20 devices sharing the "VLF5" suffix (e.g., MK20DN32VLF5, MK20DN128VLF5, MK20DX64VLF5), as confirmed by the K20 Signal Multiplexing and Pin Assignments section (Section 8.1) of the datasheet. Identical pin count, footprint, and I/O mapping enable hardware reuse across flash/RAM variants and FlexMemory options without PCB redesign.