NXP Semiconductors MK40DX256VLH7

Overview

MK40DX256VLH7 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a Kinetis K40 Series ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extension, 256 KB flash, 64 KB RAM, and 72 MHz max CPU frequency. It integrates dual 16-bit SAR ADCs with PGA, 12-bit DAC, CAN, USB OTG, multiple UART/I²C/SPI, RTC, and LCD/TSI peripherals. Designed for industrial control and human-machine interface applications requiring mixed-signal processing and low-power operation.

For engineers reviewing the MK40DX256VLH7 datasheet, MK40DX256VLH7 pinout, MK40DX256VLH7 application, or MK40DX256VLH7 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 64 LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm) package, –40°C to +105°C extended temperature range, 1.71–3.6 V supply, dual ADC architecture with integrated PGA, and integrated FlexMemory support for EEPROM emulation.

Technical Context

The MK40DX256VLH7 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP instructions and no FPU, operating up to 72 MHz via the Multipurpose Clock Generator (MCG) supporting FEE/FBE/BLPE modes. Its memory subsystem includes 256 KB on-chip flash with 4 KB FlexNVM for EEPROM-like functionality, 64 KB SRAM, and hardware CRC acceleration.

Peripherals are organized around a crossbar switch with configurable clock gating: two independent 16-bit ADCs each with programmable gain amplifier (up to ×64), 12-bit DAC, three analog comparators with internal 6-bit DAC references, eight-channel PWM timer, two quadrature decoder timers, USB full-/low-speed OTG with on-chip transceiver, and one FlexCAN 2.0B module - all operating within the same 1.71–3.6 V voltage and –40°C to +105°C thermal envelope.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm), lead-free, RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL3).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK40DX128VLH7, the MK40DX256VLH7 provides double flash capacity and FlexNVM for robust data logging, while retaining full pin and peripheral compatibility. Against MKE15Z256VLH7, it delivers superior mixed-signal integration and real-time capability at the expense of higher active power - making it the only choice for USB-connected, LCD-based industrial HMI designs.

Availability

MK40DX256VLH7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart energy metering, medical patient monitoring, and building automation panels requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MK40DX256VLH7 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 MK40DX256VLH7 belongs to the Kinetis K40 family - designed specifically for industrial and human-machine interface applications demanding integrated analog precision, real-time control, low-power operation, and robust communication interfaces in extended temperature environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK40DX256VLH7?

The MK40DX256VLH7 operates at a maximum CPU frequency of 72 MHz, achieved using the Multipurpose Clock Generator (MCG) in FEE mode with an external 8 MHz crystal and PLL multiplication. This frequency is fully supported across the –40°C to +105°C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage, enabling deterministic real-time execution for motor control and USB data handling without derating.

Does the MK40DX256VLH7 include hardware for EEPROM emulation?

Yes, the MK40DX256VLH7 includes 4 KB of FlexNVM (FlexMemory) that supports EEPROM emulation with hardware-accelerated wear leveling, atomic write operations, and guaranteed 100,000 write cycles. This feature is accessible via the Flash Memory Interface (FTFL) module and eliminates the need for external serial EEPROM in applications such as energy meter tariff storage or medical device calibration data retention.

What analog peripherals are integrated into the MK40DX256VLH7?

The MK40DX256VLH7 integrates two independent 16-bit SAR ADCs, each with a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) supporting gains up to ×64, a 12-bit DAC, three analog comparators (each with an integrated 6-bit DAC for reference generation), and a precision voltage reference module. These peripherals share a common analog supply domain (VDDA/VSSA) and are optimized for simultaneous acquisition and control in sensor-based industrial systems.

Is the MK40DX256VLH7 compatible with USB full-speed communication?

Yes, the MK40DX256VLH7 includes a USB full-/low-speed On-The-Go controller with an integrated transceiver, supporting 12 Mbps full-speed and 1.5 Mbps low-speed operation. It complies with USB 2.0 specification and supports device, host, and OTG roles. The on-chip transceiver eliminates external PHY components, and the USB module is clocked directly from the MCG PLL output, ensuring reliable enumeration and data transfer across the full operating voltage and temperature range of the MK40DX256VLH7.

What low-power modes does the MK40DX256VLH7 support, and what are their typical current draws?

The MK40DX256VLH7 supports seven low-power modes including VLPR, VLPS, LLS, and VLLS1–3. At 3.0 V and –40°C to 25°C, VLLS1 draws 1.47 μA, VLLS2 draws 1.59 μA, and VLLS3 draws 1.9 μA - all retaining RTC operation and selected wakeup sources. STOP mode draws 0.35 mA, and VLPR mode draws 0.996 mA with all peripherals disabled. These values are measured with 64 KB RAM retained and are validated across the full –40°C to +105°C range per the K40 Sub-Family Data Sheet Rev. 3.