NXP Semiconductors MKL24Z64VLH4

Overview

MKL24Z64VLH4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ based microcontroller in 64-pin LQFP package, featuring 64 KB flash, 8 KB SRAM, USB 2.0 Full/Low-Speed On-The-Go with on-chip transceiver and 5 V-to-3.3 V regulator, and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.12 µA in VLLS0 mode with full state retention. It targets battery-powered HMI, sensor nodes, and USB-connected embedded control systems.

For engineers reviewing the MKL24Z64VLH4 datasheet, MKL24Z64VLH4 pinout, MKL24Z64VLH4 application, or MKL24Z64VLH4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 64-pin LQFP-0.5 mm pitch package, 50 GPIOs, integrated USB PHY, 12-bit SAR ADC with 6-bit DAC, and nine low-power modes supporting sub-µA sleep currents - critical for energy-constrained designs requiring rapid wake-up and deterministic real-time response.

Technical Context

The MKL24Z64VLH4 implements an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Bit Manipulation Engine (BME) and Micro Trace Buffer (MTB), executing from zero-wait-state flash memory. Its clock system includes multiple sources: internal 4 MHz/32 kHz IRC, external crystal oscillator (3–32 MHz), and programmable MCG with FEI/FBE/BLPI/BLPE modes enabling dynamic power-performance scaling.

System-level peripherals include a 6-channel Timer/PWM (TPM), two 2-channel TPM modules, LPTMR, RTC, COP watchdog, 4-channel DMA, and low-leakage wakeup unit. Analog integration comprises a 12-bit SAR ADC (up to 16 channels), analog comparator with integrated 6-bit DAC, and programmable reference input - all operable in low-power modes with sub-µA adder currents.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

64-pin LQFP package (10 × 10 × 1.4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), 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 MKL24Z64VLH4, MKL24Z64VLK4 trades compact 64-pin layout for expanded I/O count, while MKL25Z64VLH4 enhances USB robustness and analog throughput at marginally higher active power - making MKL24Z64VLH4 the most balanced choice for cost-sensitive, space-limited USB peripheral designs requiring proven ultra-low-power operation.

Availability

MKL24Z64VLH4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, USB human interface devices, smart meter front-ends, and portable medical diagnostic probes requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MKL24Z64VLH4 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 delivering secure, scalable solutions for automotive, industrial, IoT, and mobile applications, with deep expertise in ARM-based microcontrollers and connectivity technologies.

The Kinetis KL24 family - including MKL24Z64VLH4 - was designed as an entry-level 32-bit MCU platform targeting ultra-low-power, USB-enabled embedded control in cost-sensitive industrial and consumer applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL24Z64VLH4 core?

The MKL24Z64VLH4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz operation in normal run mode. This frequency is supported by the internal flash controller's zero-wait-state architecture and MCG clock generator configured in PEE or FEE mode. At 48 MHz, the MKL24Z64VLH4 delivers 1.25 DMIPS/MHz performance while maintaining low dynamic power consumption.

Does the MKL24Z64VLH4 support crystal-less USB operation?

No, the MKL24Z64VLH4 requires an external 3–32 MHz crystal connected to XTAL/EXTAL pins for accurate USB timing compliance. Unlike later KL25/KL26 variants, it lacks the internal USB PLL and precision trimming needed for crystal-less full-speed USB operation. The MKL24Z64VLH4's USB module depends on crystal-derived clocks to meet USB 2.0 ±0.25% tolerance requirements.

How many GPIO pins are available on the MKL24Z64VLH4 in the 64-pin LQFP package?

The MKL24Z64VLH4 provides 50 general-purpose I/O pins in its 64-pin LQFP package. These are distributed across PORTA (32 pins), PORTB (16 pins), PORTC (16 pins), and PORTD (16 pins), with multiplexing allowing assignment to UART, SPI, I²C, TPM, ADC, and comparator functions. Pin 64 (VREFH) and pins 1/2/3/4 (VDD/VSS pairs) are dedicated power/ground and not GPIO-capable.

What low-power modes does the MKL24Z64VLH4 support, and what is the lowest achievable current?

The MKL24Z64VLH4 supports nine low-power modes, including VLLS0 (Very-Low-Leakage Stop Mode 0). In VLLS0 with PORPO = 1, the MKL24Z64VLH4 achieves as low as 0.12 µA at 25°C with full register and RAM retention and 4 µs wake-up time. This mode is ideal for battery-backed real-time clock or sensor wake-on-event applications requiring nanowatt standby.

Is the MKL24Z64VLH4 pin-compatible with other Kinetis L-series MCUs?

The MKL24Z64VLH4 is footprint-compatible within the KL24 sub-family sharing the 64-pin LQFP package (e.g., MKL24Z32VLH4), but not with KL25/KL26 or KL3x families due to differences in peripheral register maps, USB clocking, and pin multiplexing. Migration to MKL25Z64VLH4 requires minor software changes for USB initialization and ADC calibration but retains identical 64-pin LQFP mechanical compatibility.