NXP Semiconductors MKL26Z256VMC4

Overview

MKL26Z256VMC4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM® Cortex®-M0+ based microcontroller in the Kinetis KL26 sub-family, featuring 256 KB flash, 32 KB SRAM, USB 2.0 On-The-Go with on-chip transceiver, and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.23 µA in VLLS0 mode. It delivers market-leading energy efficiency for battery-powered human-machine interface and sensor-edge applications.

For engineers reviewing the MKL26Z256VMC4 datasheet, MKL26Z256VMC4 pinout, MKL26Z256VMC4 application, or MKL26Z256VMC4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin LQFP package, 84 GPIOs, integrated TSI touch interface, 16-bit SAR ADC, and support for nine low-power modes - all validated across –40°C to +105°C ambient temperature.

Technical Context

The MKL26Z256VMC4 implements an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Bit Manipulation Engine and Micro Trace Buffer, executing from zero-wait-state flash memory. Its clock system integrates MCG with multiple modes (FEI, FBE, BLPI, BLPE) supporting flexible frequency scaling from 4 MHz (VLPR) to 48 MHz (RUN), with dedicated 4 MHz and 32 kHz internal reference clocks.

System-level power management includes a Low-Leakage Wakeup Unit, COP watchdog, and hardware-controlled transitions among nine low-power states - including VLLS0 (0.23 µA), VLLS1 (0.71 µA), and VLPS (2.71 µA) - all retaining full register and RAM state with sub-5 µs wakeup to RUN mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3 per J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MKL26Z256VLH4, MKL26Z256VMC4 provides 34 additional GPIOs for expanded peripheral connectivity; compared with MKL27Z256VLH4, it lacks crystal-less USB and secure boot but maintains full SDK backward compatibility and broader legacy toolchain support.

Availability

MKL26Z256VMC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, USB-capable HMI panels, smart meter front-ends, and portable diagnostic tools requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MKL26Z256VMC4 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, with deep expertise in ARM-based microcontrollers and edge processing.

The MKL26Z256VMC4 belongs to the Kinetis KL26 sub-family - designed specifically for ultra-low-power, cost-sensitive embedded applications requiring USB connectivity, capacitive touch, and robust industrial operating margins.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL26Z256VMC4 core?

The MKL26Z256VMC4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz in normal run mode. This frequency is achievable with the MCG configured in PEE mode using an external crystal or oscillator source. In very-low-power run (VLPR) mode, the core operates up to 4 MHz to minimize active current consumption while maintaining full register and RAM retention.

Does the MKL26Z256VMC4 support crystal-less USB operation?

No, the MKL26Z256VMC4 requires an external 48 MHz crystal or oscillator for full-speed USB operation. Unlike later Kinetis L-series variants such as the KL27, it does not integrate a factory-trimmed USB PLL capable of crystal-less operation. The USB module relies on precise 48 MHz timing derived from the external crystal via the MCG's PEE mode.

How many GPIO pins does the MKL26Z256VMC4 provide in its 64-pin LQFP package?

The MKL26Z256VMC4 in the 64-pin LQFP package provides 84 GPIO pins - achieved through multiplexing of alternate functions across port pins. This exceeds the physical pin count due to intelligent signal sharing, enabling flexible peripheral assignment without requiring larger packages or external I/O expanders.

What is the lowest power consumption state supported by the MKL26Z256VMC4?

The MKL26Z256VMC4 achieves its lowest power state in Very-Low-Leakage Stop Mode 0 (VLLS0), consuming as little as 0.23 µA at 25°C with full register and RAM retention and 4.5 µs wakeup time. This mode disables all clocks except the 32 kHz LPO and retains wake-up capability via GPIO, RTC alarm, or LLWU sources.

Is the MKL26Z256VMC4 pin-compatible with other Kinetis KL26 variants?

Yes, the MKL26Z256VMC4 shares identical pinout and electrical characteristics with other 64-pin LQFP KL26 variants including MKL26Z256VLH4 and MKL26Z128VMC4. All adhere to the same LQFP-64 mechanical dimensions (10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) and signal mapping per the KL26 Signal Multiplexing and Pin Assignments document.