NXP Semiconductors MK20DX64VLF5

Overview

MK20DX64VLF5 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extension, designed for embedded control applications requiring real-time signal processing and low-power operation. It features 64 KB program flash, 16 KB RAM, 16-bit SAR ADC, USB OTG controller, and operates from 1.71–3.6 V across –40 to 105°C ambient temperature - used in industrial motor control, sensor fusion nodes, and portable medical devices.

For engineers reviewing the MK20DX64VLF5 datasheet, MK20DX64VLF5 pinout, MK20DX64VLF5 application, or MK20DX64VLF5 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 MHz core frequency, FlexMemory support (64 KB flash + FlexNVM), LQFP-48 package compatibility, USB full-speed OTG capability, and verified low-leakage stop modes down to 0.176 µA in VLLS0 with POR disabled.

Technical Context

The MK20DX64VLF5 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 FEI, FBE, and BLPE modes, with crystal oscillators at 3–32 MHz and 32 kHz for RTC.

System-level integration includes a 4-channel DMA controller servicing up to 41 request sources, hardware CRC module for firmware integrity, and dual low-power timers (LPTMR and PIT) supporting precise timing in VLPR and STOP modes. Analog subsystem comprises two comparators with integrated 6-bit DACs and programmable reference inputs, tightly coupled to the 16-bit ADC.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin LQFP (7 mm × 7 mm), lead-free, RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3 per J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK20DN64VLF5, the MK20DX64VLF5 adds FlexMemory for robust data logging, while KL26Z128VLH4 trades DSP/USB capability for reduced active current and lower BOM cost - selection depends on whether real-time signal processing and field-upgradable firmware storage are design-critical.

Availability

MK20DX64VLF5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, portable medical devices, smart building environmental monitoring, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MK20DX64VLF5 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 heritage in Freescale's Kinetis portfolio.

The MK20DX64VLF5 belongs to the Kinetis K20 family - engineered for real-time embedded control in resource-constrained, thermally demanding environments where computational efficiency, analog integration, and ultra-low-power operation are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK20DX64VLF5?

The MK20DX64VLF5 operates at a maximum system and core clock frequency of 50 MHz, as specified in the K20 Sub-Family Data Sheet (Rev. 4). This frequency is achievable using the internal MCG in FEI or FBE mode with appropriate crystal configuration. The MK20DX64VLF5 maintains full USB full-speed functionality only when the system clock is ≥20 MHz and ≤48 MHz, per USB electrical specifications.

Does the MK20DX64VLF5 include FlexMemory, and how is it configured?

The MK20DX64VLF5 includes FlexMemory architecture, but only the FlexNVM portion is implemented - providing up to 32 KB of reconfigurable nonvolatile memory that can be partitioned between data flash and EEPROM emulation. Unlike the MK20DX128 variants, the MK20DX64VLF5 does not include FlexRAM. Configuration is performed via FTFL_FOPT register settings during programming.

What are the supported low-power modes and their typical current consumption for MK20DX64VLF5?

The MK20DX64VLF5 supports seven low-power modes including VLPR, VLPW, STOP, VLPS, LLS, and three VLLS variants. At 3.0 V and –40 to 25°C, VLLS0 draws 0.367 µA with POR enabled and 0.176 µA with POR disabled; VLPS consumes 3.5 µA; and LLS draws 2.1 µA. These values are measured with all clocks disabled except required wakeup sources, per Table 6 in the K20P48M50SF0 datasheet.

Can the MK20DX64VLF5 operate with a 32.768 kHz crystal for RTC, and what is its accuracy?

Yes, the MK20DX64VLF5 supports a 32.768 kHz crystal oscillator for RTC operation, with factory-trimmed internal LPO period of 900–1100 µs (typical 1000 µs) when external crystal is absent. With a precision 32.768 kHz crystal and proper load capacitance, RTC accuracy is typically ±20 ppm over –40 to 85°C, meeting standard real-time clock requirements for metering and timestamping applications using the MK20DX64VLF5.

Is the MK20DX64VLF5 pin-compatible with other K20 family members in the same LQFP-48 package?

Yes, the MK20DX64VLF5 shares identical pinout and package dimensions (48-pin LQFP, 7 mm × 7 mm) with other K20 family members ending in "VLF5", including MK20DN64VLF5, MK20DX32VLF5, and MK20DN32VLF5. Signal multiplexing and peripheral assignments follow the K20 Signal Multiplexing table (Section 8.1 of K20P48M50SF0), ensuring PCB layout reuse across these variants when peripherals used are consistent.