NXP Semiconductors MK40DX256VML7

Overview

MK40DX256VML7 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with DSP extension, 256 KB flash, 64 KB RAM, operating at up to 72 MHz, supporting industrial temperature range (–40 to 105°C), and integrated USB OTG, CAN, dual ADCs, and LCD controller - used in motor control, industrial HMI, and embedded connectivity applications.

For engineers reviewing the MK40DX256VML7 datasheet, MK40DX256VML7 pinout, MK40DX256VML7 application, or MK40DX256VML7 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 72 MHz Cortex-M4 core with FPU support, dual 16-bit SAR ADCs with PGA, 12-bit DAC, low-power stop modes down to 1.47 µA, and QFN-80 (10 mm × 10 mm) package for space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The MK40DX256VML7 implements the Kinetis K40 sub-family architecture with a multi-layer AHB bus matrix, MCG clock generator supporting FEE/FEI/BLPE modes, and configurable power management across 10 low-power states including VLLS1–VLLS3. Its memory subsystem includes 256 KB program flash with FlexMemory partitioning capability and 64 KB SRAM with ECC support on select regions.

Peripherals are tightly coupled via crossbar switch: two 16-bit ADCs share dedicated PGA stages and reference inputs; eight-channel TPM supports motor control PWM with dead-time insertion; FlexCAN module complies with ISO 11898-1; USB OTG controller integrates transceiver and supports full-/low-speed operation without external PHY.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 80-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 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 MK40DX256VML7, MK40DN512VLQ10 offers double flash/RAM and higher clock speed in a larger package, while K22FN512VLH12 adds FPU and higher frequency but removes LCD/TSI - making MK40DX256VML7 optimal for cost-sensitive, display-integrated industrial controllers requiring balanced performance and peripheral integration.

Availability

MK40DX256VML7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, smart energy metering, and medical patient monitoring requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MK40DX256VML7 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 company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.

The Kinetis K40 family was designed for cost-sensitive, high-integration industrial and appliance applications requiring rich analog peripherals, low-power operation, and human-machine interface capabilities - with MK40DX256VML7 targeting display-driven embedded controllers.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MK40DX256VML7?

The MK40DX256VML7 operates at a maximum core 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 validated across the full –40 to 105°C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage, enabling deterministic real-time execution for motor control and communication stacks. The MK40DX256VML7 maintains timing compliance without derating under worst-case thermal and voltage conditions.

Does the MK40DX256VML7 include a floating-point unit (FPU)?

No, the MK40DX256VML7 does not include a hardware floating-point unit. Its part number suffix 'D' denotes Cortex-M4 with DSP extension only (per K40 part numbering scheme), distinguishing it from 'F' variants like K22FN512VLH12. Signal processing requiring floating-point math must be implemented in software or offloaded; fixed-point arithmetic is fully supported by the DSP instruction set. The MK40DX256VML7 prioritizes analog integration and low-power features over FPU capability.

What package type and pin count does the MK40DX256VML7 use?

The MK40DX256VML7 uses an 80-pin LQFP package (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), identified by 'LH' in the part number decode. This package provides full access to all peripherals including dual ADCs, USB, CAN, multiple UARTs, and LCD segment drivers. It is RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3, and compatible with standard PCB assembly processes. The MK40DX256VML7's pinout is documented in Section 8 of the K40 Sub-Family Data Sheet (Rev. 2, 2012).

Can the MK40DX256VML7 drive a segment LCD directly?

Yes, the MK40DX256VML7 integrates a dedicated segment LCD controller supporting up to 36 frontplanes × 8 backplanes or 40 frontplanes × 4 backplanes, depending on enabled COM/SEG lines. It includes internal charge pump, contrast control, and blinking logic - eliminating external LCD driver ICs. This capability is confirmed in the K40 Sub-Family Data Sheet Section 6.9.2 and applies specifically to MK40DX256VML7 per its package pin count and feature enablement. The MK40DX256VML7 reduces BOM cost and board area in HMI applications.

What are the lowest-power operating modes supported by the MK40DX256VML7?

The MK40DX256VML7 supports 10 low-power modes, with VLLS1, VLLS2, and VLLS3 offering the deepest sleep states: VLLS3 draws as low as 1.47 µA at 3.0 V and –40 to 25°C while retaining RAM and selected registers, waking via LPUART, CMP, or RTC alarms. These modes are validated per Table 6 in the K40 Sub-Family Data Sheet and apply to MK40DX256VML7 across its rated temperature range. The MK40DX256VML7 enables multi-year battery operation in wireless sensor nodes.