NXP Semiconductors MKL26Z128VLL4

Overview

MKL26Z128VLL4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM® Cortex®-M0+ based microcontroller in the Kinetis KL26 sub-family, featuring 128 KB flash, 16 KB SRAM, USB 2.0 On-The-Go with on-chip transceiver, 16-bit SAR ADC, 12-bit DAC, 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 wake-up.

For engineers reviewing the MKL26Z128VLL4 datasheet, MKL26Z128VLL4 pinout, MKL26Z128VLL4 application, or MKL26Z128VLL4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 100-pin LQFP package, 1.71–3.6 V supply range, -40 to 105°C temperature grade, USB OTG capability, and compatibility with Kinetis L and K2x families for scalable firmware reuse.

Technical Context

The MKL26Z128VLL4 implements an energy-optimized Cortex-M0+ core with Bit Manipulation Engine and Micro Trace Buffer for debug visibility. Its clock system integrates MCG with multiple modes (FEI, FBE, BLPI, BLPE) supporting dynamic voltage/frequency scaling across nine low-power states including VLLS0–VLLS3, VLPS, and STOP - enabling precise power/performance trade-offs in portable and industrial edge nodes.

Peripheral integration includes dual UARTs, two SPIs, I2S/SAI, two I2C modules, six-channel TPM, real-time clock, low-leakage wakeup unit, and TSI-based capacitive touch sensing. Analog subsystem combines 16-bit ADC with programmable gain, 12-bit DAC, and analog comparator with integrated 6-bit DAC reference - all operating under unified 1.71–3.6 V supply constraints.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 100-pin LQFP (LL), 14 mm × 14 mm × 1.4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch - RoHS-compliant, reflow-solderable, and compatible with standard PCB assembly processes.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MKL26Z128VLL4, MKL26Z256VLL4 offers memory scalability within identical pinout and power profile, while MKE14Z128VLH7 trades package size and USB OTG for CAN FD and higher-speed analog - making MKL26Z128VLL4 optimal for USB-centric, space-constrained HMI and sensor edge nodes.

Availability

MKL26Z128VLL4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart thermostat interfaces, industrial sensor nodes, medical wearables, automotive cabin controllers, and battery-powered HMI applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MKL26Z128VLL4 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, mobile, and communication infrastructure markets.

The Kinetis KL26 family was designed as an entry-level 32-bit MCU platform emphasizing ultra-low-power operation, USB OTG integration, and seamless migration across Kinetis L and K2x product lines - targeting cost-sensitive, battery-operated edge devices.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL26Z128VLL4 core?

The MKL26Z128VLL4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz operation. This frequency is achievable using the internal PLL with an external crystal or oscillator source, and is supported across the full 1.71–3.6 V supply range and -40 to 105°C temperature grade. The MKL26Z128VLL4 maintains timing compliance at this speed with zero-wait-state flash execution.

Does the MKL26Z128VLL4 support USB device and host functionality simultaneously?

Yes, the MKL26Z128VLL4 integrates a USB 2.0 On-The-Go controller that supports both device and host roles. It includes an on-chip transceiver and 5 V-to-3.3 V regulator, enabling dual-role operation without external PHY components. The MKL26Z128VLL4 implements the USB OTG protocol stack in firmware and supports full-speed (12 Mbps) and low-speed (1.5 Mbps) signaling.

What low-power modes are available on the MKL26Z128VLL4, and what is the lowest current draw?

The MKL26Z128VLL4 provides nine low-power modes, including VLLS0–VLLS3, VLPS, and STOP. In VLLS0 mode with PORPO=1, it achieves 0.23 µA typical current draw at 3.0 V and 25°C while retaining full SRAM and register state. Wake-up time from VLLS0 is 4.5 µs, and from VLPS/STOP is also 4.5 µs - enabling rapid responsiveness in event-driven applications.

Can the MKL26Z128VLL4's analog peripherals operate independently during low-power modes?

Yes, several analog peripherals remain functional in low-power modes: the 16-bit SAR ADC, 12-bit DAC, analog comparator, and TSI can operate in VLPS, LLS, and VLLS1 modes. For example, the ADC can perform conversions using the 4 MHz internal reference clock in VLPS mode, consuming only 366 µA additional current. The MKL26Z128VLL4 supports autonomous analog triggering and DMA transfer without waking the core.

What is the package type and pin count of the MKL26Z128VLL4?

The MKL26Z128VLL4 uses a 100-pin LQFP (LL) package measuring 14 mm × 14 mm × 1.4 mm with 0.5 mm pitch. This RoHS-compliant package supports 80 GPIOs, including 50 high-drive pins, and provides dedicated routing for USB differential pairs, analog inputs, and TSI channels - all documented in the official MKL26Z128VLL4 pin assignment table.