NXP Semiconductors MK22DX256VLH5

Overview

MK22DX256VLH5 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extensions, designed for embedded control applications requiring real-time signal processing, low-power operation, and integrated analog peripherals. It features 256 KB on-chip program flash with FlexMemory, 64 KB RAM, 16-bit SAR ADC, 12-bit DAC, USB OTG controller, and operates from 1.71–3.6 V across –40 to 105°C ambient.

For engineers reviewing the MK22DX256VLH5 datasheet, MK22DX256VLH5 pinout, MK22DX256VLH5 application, or MK22DX256VLH5 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 50 MHz CPU frequency, FlexNVM configuration enabling EEPROM-like functionality, LQFP-64 package compatibility, and support for multiple low-power modes including VLLS0 with sub-1 µA stop current.

Technical Context

The MK22DX256VLH5 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with hardware DSP instructions and single-cycle MAC, paired with a multi-purpose clock generator supporting crystal oscillators (3–32 MHz and 32 kHz), internal reference, and flexible PLL configurations. Its memory subsystem includes 256 KB flash with FlexMemory partitioning (64 KB FlexNVM + 4 KB FlexRAM), enabling data logging and wear-leveling without external EEPROM.

Peripheral integration includes four UARTs, two I²C modules, SPI, I²S, USB full-/low-speed OTG with on-chip transceiver, eight-channel PWM timer, RTC, and analog blocks comprising 16-bit ADC (up to 16 channels), 12-bit DAC, two analog comparators with 6-bit DAC references, and voltage reference module - all operating within the same 1.71–3.6 V supply range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm), 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 MK22DX256VLH5, MK22FN512VLH12 offers greater processing headroom but removes FlexMemory-based data persistence, while MK64FX512VLQ12 adds FPU and Ethernet at the expense of pin compatibility and power efficiency - making MK22DX256VLH5 optimal for compact, battery-aware, data-logging embedded systems.

Availability

MK22DX256VLH5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, portable medical instrumentation, automotive body electronics, and smart energy metering requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MK22DX256VLH5 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 roots in Freescale's Kinetis portfolio.

The MK22DX256VLH5 belongs to the Kinetis K22 family - engineered for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded control applications demanding integrated analog peripherals, robust flash reliability, and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK22DX256VLH5?

The MK22DX256VLH5 operates at a maximum CPU frequency of 50 MHz, enabled by its ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP extensions. This frequency is supported across the full 1.71–3.6 V supply range and –40°C to +105°C ambient temperature. The device achieves 1.25 Dhrystone MIPS per MHz, delivering predictable real-time performance for motor control and signal processing tasks. MK22DX256VLH5 uses internal PLL circuitry to derive system clocks from external crystals or internal oscillators.

Does the MK22DX256VLH5 support USB device functionality without external components?

Yes, the MK22DX256VLH5 integrates a full-/low-speed USB On-The-Go controller with an on-chip transceiver, allowing direct connection to USB connectors without external PHY chips. It supports device, host, and OTG roles, and includes USB Device Charger Detect (DCD) for identifying charger types. MK22DX256VLH5 meets USB 2.0 specifications and supports standard class drivers such as CDC ACM and MSC, enabling plug-and-play data export in portable instruments.

How does the FlexMemory architecture in the MK22DX256VLH5 benefit firmware design?

The MK22DX256VLH5 includes 64 KB FlexNVM and 4 KB FlexRAM, enabling EEPROM-like functionality directly in flash memory. This allows firmware to store calibration data, configuration parameters, or event logs with wear leveling and atomic write operations - eliminating external serial EEPROM and reducing BOM count. MK22DX256VLH5 supports runtime reconfiguration of FlexNVM partitions and provides dedicated APIs in the Kinetis SDK for reliable data persistence across power cycles.

What low-power modes are available on the MK22DX256VLH5, and what is the lowest active current?

The MK22DX256VLH5 offers seven low-power modes, including Very-Low-Leakage Stop (VLLS0) with typical current draw of 0.54 µA at –40°C to +25°C when POR detect is enabled. In Very-Low-Power Run (VLPR) mode at 4 MHz, it consumes 754 µA with all peripherals disabled. These modes are controlled via the PMC module and support wake-up from GPIO, RTC alarm, or low-power timer - making MK22DX256VLH5 suitable for battery-powered sensor nodes requiring multi-year operation.

Is the MK22DX256VLH5 pin-compatible with other K22 family members?

Yes, the MK22DX256VLH5 uses a 64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm) package identical to other LH-suffixed K22 variants like MK22DN512VLH5 and MK22FN512VLH12. Pin assignments for power, reset, clocks, USB, and common peripherals are consistent across this package variant, enabling hardware reuse and migration paths. However, functional differences - such as FlexMemory presence or maximum clock speed - require firmware adaptation when substituting MK22DX256VLH5 with alternate K22 parts.