NXP Semiconductors MKL15Z128VLK4
- Part No.:
- MKL15Z128VLK4
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 80-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MKL15Z128VLK4.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 128KB FLASH 80FQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:380
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Product details
Overview
MKL15Z128VLK4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller in an 80-pin LQFP package, featuring 128 KB flash, 16 KB SRAM, and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.12 µA in VLLS0 mode with full state retention. It integrates a 16-bit SAR ADC, 12-bit DAC, two UARTs, two I²C modules, two SPI interfaces, TSI touch sensing, and six-channel TPM timers - optimized for battery-powered industrial sensors and portable HMI devices.
For engineers reviewing the MKL15Z128VLK4 datasheet, MKL15Z128VLK4 pinout, MKL15Z128VLK4 application, or MKL15Z128VLK4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 70 GPIO count, -40°C to +105°C operating range, 1.71–3.6 V supply, 9 low-power modes, and compatibility with Kinetis L-family toolchains and software stacks.
Technical Context
The MKL15Z128VLK4 implements a single-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor with Micro Trace Buffer and SWD debug interface, executing from zero-wait-state flash memory. Its clock system includes configurable MCG with internal 4 MHz IRC, 32 kHz LPO, and support for external crystals up to 16 MHz in high-frequency mode.
Power management relies on nine distinct low-power modes (RUN, VLPR, STOP, VLPS, LLS, VLLS0–3), each with precise peripheral gating control and wakeup latency as low as 4 µs (VLPS→RUN). The analog subsystem combines a 16-bit ADC with programmable PGA, a 12-bit DAC, and a comparator with integrated 6-bit DAC reference.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | ARM Cortex-M0+, 48 MHz max - delivers 30.5 CoreMark/MHz at 48 MHz in PEE mode |
| Memory | 128 KB flash (zero-wait-state), 16 KB SRAM - supports over-the-air firmware updates and real-time data buffering |
| Supply Voltage | 1.71–3.6 V - enables direct Li-ion/Li-Po battery operation without external regulators |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +105°C - qualified for under-hood automotive and industrial control environments |
| Low-Power Mode | VLLS0 current: 0.12 µA (typ) at 25°C with PORPO=1 - retains full register and RAM state during deep sleep |
| I/O Count | 70 GPIO - all 5-V tolerant with configurable pull-up/pull-down, slew rate, and drive strength |
| Analog Peripherals | 16-bit SAR ADC (up to 1 MSPS), 12-bit DAC, CMP with 6-bit DAC reference - supports precision sensor signal conditioning |
Pinout & Package
80-pin LQFP (12 mm × 12 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3. Package drawing: 98ASS23174W1.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD, VDDA, VSS, VSSA | Power and ground rails | Digital/analog supply separation ensures clean ADC reference and noise immunity |
| PTA0–PTA31, PTB0–PTB17, PTC0–PTC17, PTD0–PTD15, PTE0–PTE3 | GPIO bank terminals | 70 total multiplexed I/O pins supporting UART, I²C, SPI, TPM, TSI, ADC, and DAC functions |
| XTAL/EXTAL | Crystal oscillator input/output | Supports 32 kHz to 40 kHz or 3–32 MHz crystal - enables precise RTC and communication timing |
| RESET_b | Active-low reset input | Internal pull-down; accepts 1.2–3.6 V logic levels - compatible with open-drain supervisors |
| SWD_DIO / SWD_CLK | Debug interface signals | 2-pin Serial Wire Debug - enables in-circuit programming and real-time trace via MTB |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-low-power architecture | 9 power modes including VLLS0 (0.12 µA typ) with full RAM/state retention and 4 µs wake time |
| Integrated touch sensing | Hardware TSI module supports up to 16 electrodes - eliminates external capacitive touch controllers |
| Flexible clocking | MCG supports FEI, FBE, PEE, BLPI, and VLPR modes - enables dynamic frequency/power scaling |
| Robust analog subsystem | 16-bit ADC with hardware averaging, 12-bit DAC with 1 mA drive, and comparator with programmable reference |
| Peripheral cross-triggering | DMA supports 63 request sources with automatic channel arbitration - reduces CPU overhead for sensor data acquisition |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Portable Medical Device |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity sensor node transmitting data via UART-to-LoRaWAN gateway. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main controller managing ADC sampling, TSI-based button interface, low-power scheduling, and UART communication. Use Value: VLLS0 mode extends 2xAA battery life to >5 years; 70 GPIO enable flexible sensor expansion and board-level test points. | Use Scenario: Handheld pulse oximeter with OLED display, optical sensor interface, and USB charging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System-on-chip handling analog front-end (ADC/DAC/CMP), touch UI (TSI), display timing (TPM PWM), and USB enumeration via UART bridge. Use Value: Integrated 12-bit DAC drives LED current precisely; 16-bit ADC achieves <1% THD for photodiode signal digitization. |
| Smart Building Controller | Automotive Body Control Module |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted HVAC zone controller with RS-485 Modbus interface and local touch panel. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time coordinator of I²C temperature sensors, SPI-connected display driver, and dual UART (Modbus + debug). Use Value: Dual UARTs eliminate external transceivers; -40°C to +105°C rating ensures reliability in unconditioned electrical cabinets. | Use Scenario: Door module managing window lift, mirror fold, and interior lighting with LIN bus diagnostics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-aware MCU executing ASIL-B compliant diagnostics, PWM motor control, and LIN physical layer timing. Use Value: 105°C ambient rating meets automotive under-dash requirements; COP watchdog and flash error correction ensure functional safety compliance. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| KL25Z128VLK4 | Same 80-pin LQFP package, Cortex-M0+, but adds USB 2.0 OTG controller and higher ADC resolution (16-bit differential) | Required where native USB device/host capability or enhanced analog performance is needed | Select KL25Z128VLK4 only if USB connectivity or differential ADC channels are mandatory |
| STM32L072KBU6 | 32-pin QFN, Cortex-M0+, 128 KB flash, 20 KB SRAM, but lacks TSI and has only 1 UART and 1 I²C | Suitable for space-constrained designs where touch interface is unnecessary and serial interface count is minimal | Choose STM32L072KBU6 when PCB area is critical and HMI complexity is low |
Compared with KL25Z128VLK4, MKL15Z128VLK4 offers identical footprint and software compatibility but omits USB - reducing BOM cost and EMI risk. Against STM32L072KBU6, MKL15Z128VLK4 provides 2.2× more GPIO, dual UART/I²C, and hardware TSI - making it superior for feature-rich embedded HMI and multi-sensor systems.
Availability
MKL15Z128VLK4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, portable medical devices, smart building controllers, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MKL15Z128VLK4 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, IoT, and mobile applications.
The Kinetis KL15 sub-family - including MKL15Z128VLK4 - was designed as an entry-level, ultra-low-power 32-bit MCU platform targeting cost-sensitive, battery-operated industrial and consumer HMI applications with rigorous thermal and longevity requirements.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL15Z128VLK4 core?
The MKL15Z128VLK4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for a maximum operating frequency of 48 MHz. This speed is achievable in PEE (Phase-Locked Loop Engaged) clock mode with appropriate external crystal or internal reference configuration. At 48 MHz, the MKL15Z128VLK4 delivers 30.5 CoreMark/MHz performance while maintaining ultra-low-power efficiency - a key advantage over competing M0+ MCUs at this frequency point.
Does the MKL15Z128VLK4 support hardware touch sensing?
Yes, the MKL15Z128VLK4 integrates a dedicated Touch Sensing Input (TSI) module capable of supporting up to 16 capacitive touch electrodes. This hardware-accelerated TSI operates independently of the CPU, enabling low-power wake-on-touch functionality and eliminating the need for external touch controller ICs. The TSI module is fully supported in NXP's Kinetis SDK and works seamlessly with the MKL15Z128VLK4's 70 GPIO resources.
What are the low-power mode current specifications for MKL15Z128VLK4?
The MKL15Z128VLK4 offers nine configurable low-power modes. In VLLS0 mode with PORPO=1, typical current consumption is 0.12 µA at 25°C with full RAM and register state retention. Other key values include 1.68 µA (typ) in LLS mode, 3.75 µA (typ) in VLPS mode, and 319 µA (typ) in STOP mode - all measured at 3.0 V. Wakeup latency from VLPS to RUN is just 4 µs, enabling rapid response to external events without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Can MKL15Z128VLK4 operate across the full industrial temperature range?
Yes, the MKL15Z128VLK4 is fully specified for operation from -40°C to +105°C ambient temperature. This extended range is validated per JEDEC JESD22-A104 and JESD22-A108 standards and applies to all electrical characteristics, including flash programming, ADC accuracy, and clock stability. The device uses 90 nm TFS process technology and includes on-chip temperature monitoring - making MKL15Z128VLK4 suitable for under-hood automotive, factory automation, and outdoor infrastructure applications.
What debug interface does MKL15Z128VLK4 provide?
The MKL15Z128VLK4 provides a 2-pin Serial Wire Debug (SWD) interface compliant with ARM CoreSight standards, supporting full JTAG/SWD functionality via SWD_DIO and SWD_CLK pins. It also includes a Micro Trace Buffer (MTB) for real-time instruction trace without external probes. Debug access is enabled by default and requires no external pull-ups; the interface operates across the full voltage and temperature range and supports flash programming, breakpoint setting, and live register inspection using standard tools like Segger J-Link and NXP MCUXpresso IDE.
MKL15Z128VLK4 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 80-LQFP
- Series:
- Kinetis KL1
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M0+
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit Single-Core
- Speed:
- 48MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, LINbus, SPI, TSI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, DMA, LVD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 70
- Program Memory Size:
- 128KB (128K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 16K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.71V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 16x16b; D/A 1x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MKL15Z128VLK4 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MKL15Z128VLK4 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MKL15Z128VLK4 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MKL15Z128VLK4 reliable?
The price and inventory of MKL15Z128VLK4 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MKL15Z128VLK4 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MKL15Z128VLK4?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MKL15Z128VLK4 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MKL15Z128VLK4?
MKL15Z128VLK4 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MKL15Z128VLK4 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MKL15Z128VLK4?
For technical support, including MKL15Z128VLK4 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MKL15Z128VLK4 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MKL15Z128VLK4 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MKL15Z128VLK4 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MKL15Z128VLK4 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MKL15Z128VLK4?
All MKL15Z128VLK4 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MKL15Z128VLK4, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MKL15Z128VLK4 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MKL15Z128VLK4:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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