NXP Semiconductors MK21DX128AVMC5
- Part No.:
- MK21DX128AVMC5
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 121-LFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
MK21DX128AVMC5.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32B 128KB FLASH 121MAPBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:343
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Product details
Overview
MK21DX128AVMC5 from NXP (formerly Freescale) is a 50 MHz ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extension, 128 KB program flash, 64 KB RAM, and FlexMemory (4 KB FlexRAM + 64 KB FlexNVM), designed for real-time industrial control and secure embedded applications requiring low-power operation and cryptographic acceleration.
For engineers reviewing the MK21DX128AVMC5 datasheet, MK21DX128AVMC5 pinout, MK21DX128AVMC5 application, or MK21DX128AVMC5 equivalent, key selection considerations include its -40°C to 105°C extended temperature rating, USB On-The-Go support with integrated transceiver, hardware AES/SHA-256 encryption engine, 16-bit SAR ADC, and configurable low-power stop modes down to 0.36 µA (VLLS0, POR disabled).
Technical Context
The MK21DX128AVMC5 implements a multi-source clock architecture with 3–32 MHz crystal oscillator, 32 kHz RTC oscillator, and MCG (Multipurpose Clock Generator) supporting FEI/FBI/BLPE/FBE/PBE/PEE modes for dynamic frequency scaling. Its memory subsystem integrates unified flash with EEPROM-like FlexNVM for data logging and wear leveling.
Security is enforced via DryIce tamper-detect module, hardware RNG, CRC accelerator, and 128-bit unique chip ID. Analog integration includes dual comparators with 6-bit DACs and programmable reference inputs, enabling sensor signal conditioning without external components.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M4 with DSP instructions, 50 MHz max - delivers deterministic real-time control and signal processing at 1.25 DMIPS/MHz. |
| Flash Memory | 128 KB program flash + 64 KB FlexNVM - enables field-upgradable firmware and emulated EEPROM with byte-level writes. |
| RAM | 64 KB SRAM - sufficient for RTOS stacks, communication buffers, and DSP algorithm working memory. |
| Operating Voltage | 1.71 V to 3.6 V - supports single-supply battery-powered designs (e.g., 2×Li-ion or 3×AA) without LDO overhead. |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +105°C - qualified for under-hood automotive, industrial motor drives, and outdoor IoT edge nodes. |
| USB Interface | Full-/low-speed USB OTG with on-chip transceiver - eliminates external PHY, reduces BOM cost and PCB area. |
| Crypto Acceleration | Hardware AES-128/192/256, SHA-1/SHA-256, DES/3DES - offloads TLS handshake and secure boot verification from CPU. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 121-pin MAPBGA (8 mm × 8 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, MC suffix). Pinout validated per K21 Sub-Family Data Sheet Rev. 4.1, Section 8.2 (MK21 Pinouts) and Table 8-1 (Signal Multiplexing for MC package).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD/VSS | Core power/ground | Dedicated 1.71–3.6 V supply pins with decoupling requirements per datasheet Section 5.2.1 - critical for noise immunity in mixed-signal operation. |
| VDDA/VSSA | Analog power/ground | Isolated analog domain supply (±0.1 V differential vs. VDD) - ensures 16-bit ADC accuracy and comparator stability. |
| EXTAL/XTAL | Main crystal oscillator input/output | Supports 3–32 MHz fundamental-mode crystals - enables precise timing for USB frame sync and motor control PWM. |
| USB0_DP/USB0_DM | USB differential data pair | Integrated full-speed transceiver with internal termination - no external resistors required for USB device mode. |
| PTA0–PTA31 | GPIO port A (multiplexed) | Configurable as UART/I²C/SPI/ADC triggers - enables flexible peripheral routing for compact PCB layouts. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| FlexMemory architecture | 64 KB FlexNVM + 4 KB FlexRAM provides EEPROM-like endurance (100k cycles) and fast write times (<10 ms) for data logging without external serial EEPROM. |
| Low-power stop modes | VLLS0 mode draws only 0.36 µA (POR disabled) - extends battery life in wireless sensor nodes with infrequent wake-ups. |
| Hardware security modules | DryIce tamper detection with secure storage and 128-bit UID enables secure firmware authentication and anti-cloning in medical and payment devices. |
| 16-bit SAR ADC | Up to 1 MSPS sampling rate with hardware averaging and window compare - eliminates need for external precision ADC in motor current sensing. |
| Multi-channel DMA | 16-channel controller with 63 request sources automates data movement between peripherals and memory - frees CPU for control algorithms. |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Control | Secure IoT Edge Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop control of BLDC motors in HVAC blowers with real-time current sensing and commutation timing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary MCU executing FOC (Field-Oriented Control) algorithm, managing PWM generation, ADC sampling, and fault protection logic. Use Value: 50 MHz Cortex-M4 with DSP delivers <1 µs interrupt latency and hardware multiply-accumulate for fast PI loop execution; 16-bit ADC resolves current ripple at 12-bit ENOB. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node transmitting encrypted air quality data via LoRaWAN gateway. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System-on-chip handling sensor interfacing (I²C temp/humidity), crypto acceleration (AES-GCM), secure boot, and ultra-low-power sleep/wake scheduling. Use Value: VLLS0 mode (0.36 µA) enables 10+ year battery life; hardware SHA-256 signs sensor payloads in <200 µs, reducing active time and energy use. |
| Medical Infusion Pump | Automotive Body Control Module |
Use Scenario: Precision fluid delivery system requiring SIL-2 functional safety compliance, tamper-resistant firmware updates, and real-time pressure monitoring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical controller managing stepper motor sequencing, pressure ADC acquisition, watchdog supervision, and secure OTA update validation. Use Value: Hardware CRC engine validates flash integrity at boot; DryIce detects physical intrusion attempts; 128-bit UID binds firmware to hardware for anti-counterfeiting. | Use Scenario: Central body controller managing door locks, lighting, and mirror positioning in passenger vehicles with CAN/LIN connectivity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main MCU interfacing with LIN transceivers, driving LED drivers, monitoring switch inputs, and communicating over CAN FD backbone. Use Value: Dual CAN interfaces (via UART-to-CAN bridge or external transceiver) enable legacy LIN and modern CAN FD coexistence; -40°C to 105°C rating ensures reliability in engine bay proximity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MK22FN512VLH12 | 120 MHz Cortex-M4F, 512 KB flash, 128 KB RAM, no FlexMemory, 100 LQFP package | Higher performance but larger footprint and no emulated EEPROM; lacks FlexNVM for data retention during power loss | Select when raw compute throughput >50 DMIPS is required and external EEPROM is acceptable. |
| STM32L476RG | 80 MHz Cortex-M4F, 1 MB flash, 128 KB RAM, 32 KB SRAM with HW parity, no hardware crypto accelerators (AES only) | Lower active power (110 µA/MHz), superior ultra-low-power modes, but requires software-based SHA-256 and no tamper detection | Select for battery-only applications prioritizing sub-µA deep-sleep over cryptographic offload or secure storage. |
Compared with MK22FN512VLH12 and STM32L476RG, the MK21DX128AVMC5 uniquely balances mid-range performance, integrated FlexMemory for robust data logging, hardware SHA-256/AES for TLS offload, and tamper-proof secure storage - making it optimal for cost-sensitive industrial and medical edge devices needing both longevity and security.
Availability
MK21DX128AVMC5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, secure IoT edge nodes, medical infusion pumps, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.
Supply support for MK21DX128AVMC5 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 deep expertise in ARM-based microcontrollers and embedded security.
The MK21DX128AVMC5 belongs to the Kinetis K21 family - a line of high-integration, low-power ARM Cortex-M4 MCUs engineered for real-time industrial automation, medical instrumentation, and secure embedded systems demanding cryptographic acceleration and extended temperature resilience.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency and core type of the MK21DX128AVMC5?
The MK21DX128AVMC5 features an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP extension, rated for a maximum operating frequency of 50 MHz. This delivers 1.25 Dhrystone MIPS per MHz, enabling efficient execution of real-time control algorithms and digital signal processing tasks. The MK21DX128AVMC5 achieves this performance within its 1.71–3.6 V supply range and -40°C to +105°C ambient temperature specification.
Does the MK21DX128AVMC5 include hardware cryptographic acceleration?
Yes, the MK21DX128AVMC5 integrates dedicated hardware accelerators for DES, 3DES, AES (128/192/256-bit), MD5, SHA-1, and SHA-256 cryptographic functions. These modules offload encryption/decryption and hash computation from the CPU, reducing active time and power consumption. The MK21DX128AVMC5 also includes a hardware random-number generator and DryIce tamper-detection circuit for secure key storage.
What memory resources are available on the MK21DX128AVMC5?
The MK21DX128AVMC5 provides 128 KB of program flash memory, 64 KB of general-purpose SRAM, and FlexMemory comprising 64 KB of FlexNVM (emulated EEPROM) and 4 KB of FlexRAM. This architecture allows byte-level writes to nonvolatile storage without external EEPROM, supporting robust data logging and configuration persistence. The MK21DX128AVMC5 uses EzPort for serial programming and debugging.
What is the package type and pin count of the MK21DX128AVMC5?
The MK21DX128AVMC5 is housed in a 121-ball MAPBGA package (8 mm × 8 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), identified by the 'MC' suffix in its part number. This fine-pitch BGA offers high I/O density in a compact footprint, suitable for space-constrained industrial and portable medical designs. Pin assignments and multiplexing are fully documented in the K21 Sub-Family Data Sheet Rev. 4.1, Section 8.2.
Does the MK21DX128AVMC5 support USB functionality, and what type?
Yes, the MK21DX128AVMC5 integrates a full-/low-speed USB On-The-Go (OTG) controller with an on-chip transceiver, supporting device, host, and OTG roles. It includes USB Device Charger Detection (DCD) and operates without external PHY components. The MK21DX128AVMC5's USB interface complies with USB 2.0 specifications and supports standard class drivers including CDC, HID, and MSC - simplifying firmware development for PC-connected diagnostics and firmware updates.
MK21DX128AVMC5 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 121-LFBGA
- Series:
- Kinetis K20
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M4
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 50MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, IrDA, SPI, UART/USART, USB, USB OTG
- Peripherals:
- DMA, I2S, LVD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 64
- Program Memory Size:
- 128KB (128K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- 4K x 8
- RAM Size:
- 32K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.71V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 20x16b; D/A 1x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MK21DX128AVMC5 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MK21DX128AVMC5 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MK21DX128AVMC5 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 MK21DX128AVMC5 reliable?
The price and inventory of MK21DX128AVMC5 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MK21DX128AVMC5 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MK21DX128AVMC5?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MK21DX128AVMC5 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MK21DX128AVMC5?
MK21DX128AVMC5 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MK21DX128AVMC5 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 MK21DX128AVMC5?
For technical support, including MK21DX128AVMC5 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MK21DX128AVMC5 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MK21DX128AVMC5 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MK21DX128AVMC5 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 MK21DX128AVMC5 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MK21DX128AVMC5?
All MK21DX128AVMC5 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MK21DX128AVMC5, 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 MK21DX128AVMC5 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MK21DX128AVMC5:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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