NXP Semiconductors MK40DX256VLL7

Overview

MK40DX256VLL7 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a Kinetis K40 series 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extension, designed for industrial and automotive control applications requiring integrated analog, communication, and low-power operation. It features 256 KB on-chip flash, 128 KB RAM, operates from 1.71–3.6 V, supports –40 to 105°C ambient temperature, and integrates USB OTG, CAN, dual 16-bit ADCs, and real-time clock.

For engineers reviewing the MK40DX256VLL7 datasheet, MK40DX256VLL7 pinout, MK40DX256VLL7 application, or MK40DX256VLL7 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 72 MHz max CPU frequency, LQFP-100 package with 100 pins, FlexMemory support, segmented LCD controller capability, and verified operation in extended temperature industrial environments.

Technical Context

The MK40DX256VLL7 implements an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP instructions and no FPU, paired with a multi-purpose clock generator supporting crystal oscillators at 3–32 MHz and 32 kHz. Its memory subsystem includes 256 KB program flash with FlexMemory partitioning, 128 KB SRAM, and hardware CRC acceleration.

Peripheral integration includes two 16-bit SAR ADCs each with integrated PGA (up to ×64 gain), a 12-bit DAC, three analog comparators with internal 6-bit DACs, eight-channel PWM timer, two quadrature decoder timers, five UARTs, two I²C, two SPI, I²S, USB full-/low-speed OTG with on-chip transceiver, and a Controller Area Network (CAN) module compliant with ISO 11898-1.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LQFP-100 (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad - provides mechanical stability, thermal dissipation, and compatibility with standard PCB assembly processes.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MK40DX128VLL7, the MK40DX256VLL7 provides double flash capacity for complex protocol stacks or OTA updates; compared with MK40DX256VMC7, it trades smaller footprint for easier hand-soldering, test probe access, and lower assembly cost in medium-volume production.

Availability

MK40DX256VLL7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, automotive body electronics, and smart energy metering requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MK40DX256VLL7 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 MK40DX256VLL7 belongs to the Kinetis K40 family - engineered for robust real-time control in harsh environments, emphasizing analog integration, low-power flexibility, and automotive-grade reliability.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK40DX256VLL7?

The MK40DX256VLL7 operates at a maximum CPU frequency of 72 MHz, achieved using the internal MCG clock generator in FEE mode with an external 3–32 MHz crystal. This frequency is sustained across the full –40 to 105°C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage, with all peripherals enabled and executing from flash memory.

Does the MK40DX256VLL7 include a hardware floating-point unit (FPU)?

No, the MK40DX256VLL7 uses an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP extensions but does not integrate a hardware FPU. Its part number suffix 'D' (as in MK40DX) explicitly denotes the DSP-only variant, distinguishing it from 'F' variants like MK40FX512VLL7 which include the single-precision FPU. Fixed-point math and CMSIS-DSP library support remain fully available.

What package type and pin count does the MK40DX256VLL7 use?

The MK40DX256VLL7 is packaged in a 100-pin LQFP (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad, designated by the 'LL' package code in its part number. This package provides full access to all GPIOs, analog inputs, and peripheral signals, and is compatible with standard reflow soldering and ICT testing.

Can the MK40DX256VLL7 support USB device and host functionality simultaneously?

Yes, the MK40DX256VLL7 integrates a USB On-The-Go (OTG) controller with an on-chip transceiver, enabling dynamic role switching between USB device and host modes without external components. The OTG session request protocol (SRP) and host negotiation protocol (HNP) are supported in firmware, allowing the MK40DX256VLL7 to act as either endpoint in a USB topology.

How much SRAM and Flash memory does the MK40DX256VLL7 have?

The MK40DX256VLL7 contains 256 KB of on-chip program flash memory and 128 KB of general-purpose SRAM. The flash includes FlexMemory capability, allowing runtime reconfiguration of up to 4 KB as emulated EEPROM for wear-leveling data logging. All memory blocks are accessible across the full operating voltage and temperature range.