NXP Semiconductors MKL26Z128VFT4R

Overview

MKL26Z128VFT4R from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller in 48-pin QFN package, featuring 128 KB flash, 16 KB SRAM, USB 2.0 On-The-Go with on-chip transceiver, 16-bit SAR ADC, and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.23 µA in VLLS0 mode. It targets battery-powered human-machine interface and sensor-edge applications requiring full state retention and sub-5 µs wakeup.

For engineers reviewing the MKL26Z128VFT4R datasheet, MKL26Z128VFT4R pinout, MKL26Z128VFT4R application, or MKL26Z128VFT4R equivalent, key selection criteria include its 48-pin QFN footprint, USB-capable low-power runtime (40 µA/MHz), integrated TSI touch interface, and support for -40°C to +105°C industrial ambient operation.

Technical Context

The MKL26Z128VFT4R implements an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Bit Manipulation Engine and Micro Trace Buffer, paired with a multi-source clock system including 32 kHz–40 kHz and 3–32 MHz crystal oscillators, internal 4 MHz IRC, and programmable MCG. Its power architecture supports nine low-power modes - including VLLS0 (0.23 µA), VLPS (2.69 µA), and LLS (1.98 µA) - with full SRAM retention and configurable peripheral gating.

Peripheral integration includes two UARTs, two I²C modules, two SPIs, I²S/SAI, six-channel TPM, two 2-channel TPMs, LPTMR, RTC, COP watchdog, and DMA supporting 63 request sources. Analog subsystem comprises 16-bit SAR ADC, 12-bit DAC, and analog comparator with embedded 6-bit DAC and programmable reference.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

48-pin QFN (VFT4) package, 7 mm × 7 mm × 1 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad. Pinout conforms to KL26 signal multiplexing specification Rev5 (document KL26P64M48SF5), with dedicated SWD debug pins (PTA0/PTA1), USB_DP/DM (PTA2/PTA3), TSI channels (up to 16 inputs), and 36 GPIOs across PORTA–PORTD.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with KL27Z128VLH4 and STM32L073RZT6, MKL26Z128VFT4R offers the smallest footprint, lowest VLLS0 current (0.23 µA), and fully integrated USB PHY - making it optimal for space- and battery-constrained edge nodes where USB plug-and-play is mandatory.

Availability

MKL26Z128VFT4R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart wearables, industrial data loggers, low-power HMIs, and USB-enabled smart home controllers requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle production programs.

Supply support for MKL26Z128VFT4R 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 deep expertise in ARM-based microcontrollers and edge processing.

The Kinetis KL26 sub-family - including MKL26Z128VFT4R - was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, USB-connected edge devices requiring robust analog integration, capacitive touch, and extended-temperature operation in cost-sensitive applications.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage for reliable operation of MKL26Z128VFT4R?

MKL26Z128VFT4R operates reliably from 1.71 V to 3.6 V. Below 1.71 V, brown-out detection triggers reset; above 3.6 V risks damage. The internal 12-bit DAC and 16-bit ADC maintain specified linearity and accuracy only within this range, and VDDA must remain within ±0.1 V of VDD to ensure analog performance.

Does MKL26Z128VFT4R support crystal-less USB operation?

No, MKL26Z128VFT4R requires an external 32 MHz crystal for full-speed USB operation. Unlike later KL27 variants, it lacks the internal USB PLL calibration circuitry needed for crystal-less USB. The USB module mandates precise 48 MHz system clock derived from a 32 MHz crystal via the MCG PLL, as documented in KL26P64M48SF5 Section 3.8.1.

How many GPIO pins are available on MKL26Z128VFT4R in the 48-pin QFN package?

MKL26Z128VFT4R provides 36 GPIO pins across PORTA–PORTD in its 48-pin QFN (VFT4) package. This count excludes dedicated power, ground, reset, SWD, and USB pins. All 36 support interrupt, DMA request, and multiple alternate functions including UART, SPI, I²C, TPM, and TSI inputs.

What is the wakeup time from VLLS0 mode for MKL26Z128VFT4R?

MKL26Z128VFT4R wakes from VLLS0 mode in 106–120 µs (typical 106 µs) to execute the first instruction, as measured under FEI clock mode at default 21 MHz CPU frequency. This includes POR recovery and clock stabilization - critical for responsive wake-on-touch or wake-on-external-interrupt use cases.

Can MKL26Z128VFT4R operate across the full industrial temperature range?

Yes, MKL26Z128VFT4R is rated for -40°C to +105°C ambient temperature operation, verified per JEDEC JESD22-A103 and JESD22-A104 standards. All electrical specifications - including flash write endurance, ADC/DAC accuracy, and USB timing - are guaranteed across this range when supplied with 1.71–3.6 V and proper thermal management.