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NXP Semiconductors MK21DX256VMC5
- Part No.:
- MK21DX256VMC5
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 121-LFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
MK21DX256VMC5.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32B 256KB FLASH 121MAPBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
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Product details
Overview
MK21DX256VMC5 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extension, operating at up to 50 MHz, featuring 256 KB on-chip flash memory and 64 KB RAM. It integrates dual 16-bit SAR ADCs, two 12-bit DACs, three analog comparators, USB OTG, two CAN interfaces, six UARTs, and supports industrial temperature range (–40 to 105°C). It is used in motor control, industrial sensing, and embedded HMI systems.
For engineers reviewing the MK21DX256VMC5 datasheet, MK21DX256VMC5 pinout, MK21DX256VMC5 application, or MK21DX256VMC5 equivalent, key selection considerations include its FlexMemory architecture (256 KB flash + 4 KB FlexRAM), 121-pin MAPBGA package, 50 MHz core frequency, dual ADC with integrated PGA, and CAN/USB coexistence for real-time industrial communication.
Technical Context
The MK21DX256VMC5 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with hardware DSP instructions and single-cycle MAC, enabling efficient signal processing in resource-constrained environments. Its memory subsystem includes 256 KB program flash with FlexNVM capability, 4 KB FlexRAM, and 64 KB SRAM - all accessible under unified memory mapping with MPU support.
Peripherals are clocked via a multi-source clock generator supporting crystal (3–32 MHz), internal RC, and PLL-derived sources. Low-power operation is enabled through eight power modes (RUN, VLPR, STOP, VLLS1–3), with sub-μA stop-mode current (e.g., 2.1 μA typical in VLLS1 at –40 to 25°C), and hardware-assisted wake-up via LPUART, TSI, or GPIO.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | ARM Cortex-M4 with DSP extension, no FPU - enables deterministic real-time control and fixed-point math acceleration without floating-point overhead. |
| Max Core Frequency | 50 MHz - delivers 62.5 DMIPS performance, sufficient for closed-loop motor control and sensor fusion at moderate sampling rates. |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB program flash + 4 KB FlexRAM - supports in-field firmware updates and data logging with wear-leveling via FlexMemory controller. |
| ADC | Dual 16-bit SAR ADCs with integrated PGA (up to ×64 gain) - allows direct interface to low-level analog sensors (e.g., strain gauges, thermocouples) without external amplification. |
| CAN Interfaces | Two independent CAN 2.0B modules - enables redundant fieldbus communication or multi-network topology (e.g., drive bus + diagnostics bus) in industrial automation. |
| Package | 121-pin MAPBGA (8 mm × 8 mm, 0.8 mm pitch) - provides high I/O density and thermal efficiency for compact industrial PCB layouts. |
| Operating Temperature | –40 to 105°C ambient - qualified for under-hood automotive subsystems and factory-floor PLC edge nodes. |
| Supply Voltage | 1.71–3.6 V - compatible with single-cell LiFePO₄, 3.3 V rail, or wide-input DC-DC converters in battery-powered equipment. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 121-pin MAPBGA (MC suffix), 8 mm × 8 mm body, 0.8 mm ball pitch, RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD, VDDA, VREFH | Digital/analog supply and reference inputs | Separate digital (VDD) and analog (VDDA) rails with dedicated reference (VREFH) enable high-accuracy ADC conversion without digital noise coupling. |
| PTA0–PTA31, PTB0–PTB19, etc. | Multi-function GPIO pins | Over 100 configurable I/Os with programmable slew rate, drive strength, pull-up/down, and digital filter - support UART, SPI, I²C, PWM, and touch sensing on shared pins. |
| USB_DP / USB_DM | USB 2.0 full/low-speed differential pair | On-chip transceiver eliminates external PHY; supports device/host/OTG roles - reduces BOM cost in portable diagnostic tools and field service devices. |
| CAN0_TX / CAN0_RX / CAN1_TX / CAN1_RX | Dual CAN physical layer interfaces | Independent TX/RX pins per CAN module allow simultaneous use of both controllers without multiplexing - critical for safety-critical dual-bus redundancy. |
| ADC0_SE0–ADC0_SE15, ADC1_SE0–ADC1_SE15 | Analog input channels | 32 total single-ended ADC inputs across two modules; each supports PGA gain selection and hardware trigger synchronization - ideal for synchronized multi-sensor acquisition. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| FlexMemory architecture | 256 KB flash + 4 KB FlexRAM enables atomic reprogramming and EEPROM-like data retention without external memory - simplifies firmware update logic and reduces system latency. |
| Dual 16-bit ADC with PGA | Integrated programmable gain amplifier (×1 to ×64) per ADC eliminates need for external op-amp stages - lowers component count and board area in precision measurement applications. |
| Low-leakage stop modes | VLLS1 mode draws only 2.1 μA (typ.) at –40 to 25°C - extends battery life in wireless sensor nodes requiring periodic wake-up and short burst transmissions. |
| Hardware CRC module | Accelerates checksum calculation for firmware integrity verification and communication packet validation - offloads CPU and ensures deterministic timing for safety-critical boot and OTA update checks. |
| TSI-based touch sensing | Capacitive touch interface supports up to 16 electrodes with automatic calibration - enables robust HMI implementation on industrial panels without overlay or additional ICs. |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Control | Smart Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop control of BLDC motors in HVAC blowers and pump drives using space-vector PWM and current feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time execution of FOC algorithm, ADC sampling at 100 kSPS, PWM generation with <100 ns dead-time control, and CAN-based command interface. Use Value: Integrated dual ADC with PGA enables direct shunt-current sensing; 50 MHz core handles 20 kHz PWM update rate with margin for communication stack overhead. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental monitor measuring temperature, humidity, and CO₂ with wireless upload via UART-to-LoRa bridge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sensor hub aggregating I²C sensor data, performing local compensation, managing sleep/wake cycles, and buffering telemetry before transmission. Use Value: Sub-μA VLLS1 stop mode extends 2-year battery life; FlexRAM stores calibrated coefficients and last-read values across deep sleep transitions. |
| Automotive Body Controller | Human-Machine Interface Panel |
Use Scenario: Centralized door/window/mirror control module communicating over CAN with gateway ECU and LIN with local actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: CAN message filtering and routing, GPIO-driven relay/latch control, watchdog supervision, and secure boot enforcement. Use Value: Dual CAN controllers isolate body network traffic from diagnostics; hardware CRC validates firmware images during startup per ISO 26262 ASIL-B requirements. | Use Scenario: Touch-enabled operator panel for packaging machinery with backlight dimming, button feedback, and status LED control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Capacitive touch acquisition via TSI, PWM-driven LED brightness control, UART communication with PLC, and real-time clock for event logging. Use Value: On-die TSI eliminates external touch controller; 16-bit PWM resolution enables smooth 0–100% backlight dimming without visible stepping. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MK21DN512VMC5 | 512 KB flash, 128 KB RAM, same package and peripherals - no change in pinout or clock tree. | Supports larger firmware images and more complex RTOS tasks; suitable when bootloader + application + OTA image must coexist. | Select when future firmware growth headroom or dual-bank OTA is required; otherwise MK21DX256VMC5 offers optimal cost/performance balance. |
| MKE15Z256VLH7 | ARM Cortex-M0+, 256 KB flash, 64 KB RAM, 100-pin LQFP - lower performance, no CAN FD, no USB OTG, but enhanced analog accuracy (16-bit ΣΔ ADC). | Better suited for ultra-low-cost, analog-intensive applications where DSP or USB are unnecessary (e.g., basic sensor transmitters). | Choose for cost-sensitive, non-USB/CAN designs prioritizing analog precision over compute throughput; not drop-in compatible due to different pinout and peripheral set. |
Compared with MK21DX256VMC5, MK21DN512VMC5 provides scalable memory without layout changes, while MKE15Z256VLH7 trades Cortex-M4 capabilities for lower cost and higher analog fidelity - making MK21DX256VMC5 the optimal choice for balanced real-time control with industrial connectivity.
Availability
MK21DX256VMC5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart sensor nodes, automotive body electronics, and HMI panels requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for MK21DX256VMC5 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with roots in Freescale's Kinetis portfolio.
The MK21DX256VMC5 belongs to the Kinetis K21 family - designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial control applications requiring mixed-signal integration, deterministic real-time response, and extended temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK21DX256VMC5?
The MK21DX256VMC5 operates at a maximum core frequency of 50 MHz, achieved via its internal PLL and MCG clock generator. This frequency is validated across the full –40 to 105°C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage. The MK21DX256VMC5 does not support 100 MHz operation - that capability is reserved for higher-grade K20/K22 variants like MK20DX256VLH10.
Does the MK21DX256VMC5 include USB functionality?
Yes, the MK21DX256VMC5 integrates a full-/low-speed USB On-The-Go controller with an on-chip transceiver, supporting device, host, and OTG roles. It requires only external termination resistors and a USB connector - no external PHY is needed. The MK21DX256VMC5 USB module complies with USB 2.0 specification and supports control, interrupt, bulk, and isochronous transfer types.
What type of memory architecture does the MK21DX256VMC5 use?
The MK21DX256VMC5 uses FlexMemory architecture, comprising 256 KB of program flash memory and 4 KB of FlexRAM. Unlike standard flash-only MCUs, FlexRAM can be configured as EEPROM-emulation memory or high-speed SRAM, and the FlexNVM region allows runtime reconfiguration of memory partitioning - a feature leveraged by the MK21DX256VMC5's flash programming routines for wear leveling.
How many analog-to-digital converters does the MK21DX256VMC5 have, and what are their key specs?
The MK21DX256VMC5 features two independent 16-bit SAR ADC modules, each with up to 16 single-ended or 8 differential input channels and an integrated programmable gain amplifier (PGA) offering gains from ×1 to ×64. Each ADC supports hardware averaging, configurable sample time, and trigger synchronization - capabilities confirmed in the K20P121M100SF2 datasheet applicable to the MK21DX256VMC5 family.
Is the MK21DX256VMC5 pin-compatible with other Kinetis K2x devices?
No, the MK21DX256VMC5 is not universally pin-compatible with other K2x devices. While it shares the 121-pin MAPBGA (MC) package with select K20/K22 variants, pin assignments differ significantly - especially for USB, CAN, and ADC signals. For example, MK20DX256VLH10 uses 100-pin LQFP and has different peripheral mappings. Always verify pinout against the MK21DX256VMC5-specific datasheet before board reuse.
MK21DX256VMC5 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 121-LFBGA
- Series:
- Kinetis K20
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- 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:
- 256KB (256K 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:
MK21DX256VMC5 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MK21DX256VMC5 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MK21DX256VMC5 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 MK21DX256VMC5 reliable?
The price and inventory of MK21DX256VMC5 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MK21DX256VMC5 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MK21DX256VMC5?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MK21DX256VMC5 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MK21DX256VMC5?
MK21DX256VMC5 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MK21DX256VMC5 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 MK21DX256VMC5?
For technical support, including MK21DX256VMC5 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MK21DX256VMC5 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MK21DX256VMC5 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MK21DX256VMC5 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 MK21DX256VMC5 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MK21DX256VMC5?
All MK21DX256VMC5 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MK21DX256VMC5, 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 MK21DX256VMC5 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MK21DX256VMC5:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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