NXP Semiconductors MK30DX256ZVLQ10

Overview

MK30DX256ZVLQ10 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 flash, 128 KB RAM, dual CAN interfaces, two 16-bit SAR ADCs with PGA, and operates from 1.71–3.6 V across –40 to 105°C ambient.

For engineers reviewing the MK30DX256ZVLQ10 datasheet, MK30DX256ZVLQ10 pinout, MK30DX256ZVLQ10 application, or MK30DX256ZVLQ10 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 100 MHz CPU frequency, LQFP-144 package with 114 GPIOs, FlexBus interface for external memory expansion, segment LCD controller, and hardware TSI for touch sensing in industrial HMI designs.

Technical Context

The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with single-cycle DSP instructions and a Memory Protection Unit (MPU) supporting multi-master protection. Its clock system integrates a 3–32 MHz crystal oscillator, 32 kHz RTC oscillator, and Multi-Purpose Clock Generator (MCG) with multiple modes including FEI, FEE, and BLPE for dynamic power/performance scaling.

Peripheral integration includes eight-channel motor control/PWM timer, two quadrature decoder timers, real-time clock, carrier modulator transmitter, and security modules such as hardware CRC and 128-bit unique chip ID. Analog subsystem comprises two independent 16-bit ADCs each with programmable gain amplifier (up to ×64), two 12-bit DACs, three analog comparators with integrated 6-bit DACs, and voltage reference.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 144-pin LQFP (20 mm × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK30DX256ZVLQ10, MK30DN512ZVLQ10 offers double flash capacity with identical footprint and feature set, while KEA128AMLH trades performance and integration for cost and simplicity-making it suitable only for less demanding applications lacking DSP, high-speed ADC, or LCD requirements.

Availability

MK30DX256ZVLQ10 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart energy metering, medical patient monitors, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MK30DX256ZVLQ10 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 MK30DX256ZVLQ10 belongs to the Kinetis K30 microcontroller family, engineered for cost-optimized, mixed-signal embedded systems requiring real-time control, low-power operation, and integrated analog peripherals in harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK30DX256ZVLQ10?

The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 operates at a maximum CPU frequency of 100 MHz, enabled by its ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP extensions. This frequency is supported across the full –40 to 105°C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage, with clock stability ensured by the integrated Multi-Purpose Clock Generator (MCG) and external crystal oscillator options. The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 achieves 1.25 Dhrystone MIPS per MHz, making it suitable for computationally intensive real-time tasks.

Does the MK30DX256ZVLQ10 support CAN FD or only classical CAN?

The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 supports only Classical CAN 2.0B, not CAN FD. It integrates two independent CAN modules compliant with ISO 11898-1, each featuring message buffering, acceptance filtering, and loopback self-test modes. CAN FD capabilities-including higher data rates and extended payload length-are absent in the K30 family; those features appear in later NXP families such as S32K or K32L series. For MK30DX256ZVLQ10 designs, external CAN FD controllers or gateway MCUs are required if FD compatibility is needed.

What package type and pin count does the MK30DX256ZVLQ10 use?

The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 uses a 144-pin LQFP package (20 mm × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), denoted by the "LQ" suffix in its part number. This package provides 114 general-purpose I/O pins with extensive peripheral multiplexing, including dedicated CAN, USB, SDHC, and LCD signals. It is RoHS-compliant, rated at Moisture Sensitivity Level 3, and compatible with standard surface-mount reflow profiles per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020.

How much SRAM and flash memory does the MK30DX256ZVLQ10 include?

The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 integrates 256 KB of on-chip program flash memory and 128 KB of SRAM. Flash memory supports read-while-write operation and includes error correction circuitry; SRAM is organized as a unified block accessible by CPU and DMA. Both memories operate across the full temperature and voltage range, with retention guaranteed down to 1.2 V for RAM and full functionality maintained from 1.71 V. The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 does not include FlexMemory - its flash is dedicated to program storage only.

Is the MK30DX256ZVLQ10 qualified for automotive applications?

The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 is specified for operation from –40 to 105°C and meets industrial reliability standards, but it is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While its temperature range overlaps with Automotive Grade 2 (–40 to 105°C), NXP does not list this part in its official AEC-Q100-certified portfolio. For automotive body control or infotainment applications requiring formal qualification, designers should select AEC-Q100-compliant alternatives such as the S32K144 or K32L2B series. The MK30DX256ZVLQ10 remains appropriate for industrial and medical applications within its rated conditions.