NXP Semiconductors MK20DX256VLK7R

Overview

MK20DX256VLK7R from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extensions, 256 KB on-chip flash, 64 KB RAM, and 80-pin LQFP package. It operates from 1.71–3.6 V across –40 to 105°C, supports USB On-The-Go, CAN, dual SPI/I²C/UART, dual 16-bit SAR ADCs with PGA, 12-bit DAC, and real-time clock - deployed in industrial motor control and embedded HMI systems.

For engineers reviewing the MK20DX256VLK7R datasheet, MK20DX256VLK7R pinout, MK20DX256VLK7R application, or MK20DX256VLK7R equivalent, key selection criteria include its 72 MHz max CPU frequency, integrated TSI for capacitive touch, low-power stop modes down to 1.47 µA, and dual ADC architecture with programmable gain amplifiers enabling high-precision sensor interfacing in resource-constrained environments.

Technical Context

This MCU implements the ARMv7E-M architecture with hardware floating-point unit disabled (D-series), relying on DSP instructions for signal processing. Its MCG clock generator supports multiple modes including FEE (FEI → FBE → FEE) for stable 72 MHz operation using an external 8 MHz crystal and internal PLL.

The device integrates a unified memory map with 256 KB flash (with FlexMemory support), 64 KB SRAM, and peripheral address space including dedicated registers for the 16-channel DMA controller, low-leakage wakeup unit, and hardware CRC module - all accessible via AHB and APB buses with configurable wait states and burst capability.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 80-pin LQFP (12 mm × 12 mm), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3, rated for –40°C to +105°C ambient operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK20DX256VLK7R, K22F512VLH12 offers higher compute throughput and FPU support but increases active power by ~30%; MKE15Z256VLH7 retains identical footprint and flash size but removes USB/CAN - making it viable only when those interfaces are omitted from the BOM.

Availability

MK20DX256VLK7R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart building HMI, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MK20DX256VLK7R 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 markets, with roots in Freescale's Kinetis portfolio.

The Kinetis K20 family, including MK20DX256VLK7R, was designed for mid-range embedded applications demanding balanced performance, analog integration, and low-power operation - especially where mixed-signal control and human-machine interaction converge.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK20DX256VLK7R?

The MK20DX256VLK7R achieves a maximum CPU clock frequency of 72 MHz using its internal PLL driven by an external 8 MHz crystal. This frequency is validated across the full –40°C to +105°C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage, delivering consistent 100+ DMIPS performance for deterministic real-time tasks without thermal throttling.

Does the MK20DX256VLK7R support USB device mode with an on-chip transceiver?

Yes, the MK20DX256VLK7R integrates a full-speed/low-speed USB On-The-Go controller with an on-chip transceiver. It supports USB device, host, and OTG roles without requiring external PHY components. The USB_DP and USB_DM pins are routed directly to the internal transceiver, and the device complies with USB 2.0 specifications when configured per the reference manual.

How many analog-to-digital converters does the MK20DX256VLK7R include, and what are their key capabilities?

The MK20DX256VLK7R includes two independent 16-bit successive approximation register (SAR) ADCs. Each ADC features an integrated programmable gain amplifier (PGA) supporting gains of 1× through 64×, configurable conversion resolution (8–16 bits), and hardware-triggered sampling synchronized to timers or PWM signals - enabling high-fidelity sensor acquisition in motor control and medical applications.

What low-power modes are available on the MK20DX256VLK7R, and what is the lowest achievable current draw?

The MK20DX256VLK7R supports seven low-power modes, including VLLS1, VLLS2, and VLLS3. In VLLS3 mode with RTC and LLWU enabled, the device draws as little as 1.47 µA at –40°C to +25°C and 3.0 V supply. This mode retains RAM content, RTC operation, and wake-up capability via GPIO or comparator events - ideal for battery-backed monitoring systems.

Is the MK20DX256VLK7R pin-compatible with other K20 family members such as MK20DX128VLK7?

Yes, the MK20DX256VLK7R shares identical 80-pin LQFP (LK) package dimensions, pin assignment, and electrical characteristics with MK20DX64VLK7, MK20DX128VLK7, and MK20DX256VLK7 variants. All share the same signal multiplexing table and peripheral mapping - allowing drop-in replacement within the same flash density tier when board layout accommodates the required decoupling and clock circuitry.