NXP Semiconductors MKL33Z64VLH4

Overview

MKL33Z64VLH4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM® Cortex®-M0+ microcontroller with 64 KB flash, 8 KB SRAM, and integrated segment LCD controller supporting up to 44×4 segments. It features hardware CRC, FlexIO for serial peripheral emulation, and operates from 1.71–3.6 V across –40 to +105 °C - optimized for battery-powered metering and portable HMI devices.

For engineers reviewing the MKL33Z64VLH4 datasheet, MKL33Z64VLH4 pinout, MKL33Z64VLH4 application, or MKL33Z64VLH4 equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, low-power mode current values, LCD segment drive capability, FlexIO configurability, and real-world substitution guidance - all grounded in the official KL33P80M48SF3 Rev. 2 datasheet.

Technical Context

The MKL33Z64VLH4 implements an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Micro Trace Buffer and two-pin SWD debug interface. Its clock system integrates a factory-trimmed 48 MHz high-accuracy internal reference (±0.5%), dual low-frequency IRCs (8 MHz/2 MHz), and support for 32 kHz–32 MHz external crystals.

Peripherals include a 16-bit 818 ksps ADC with internal Vref, a 12-bit DAC, high-speed analog comparator with 6-bit DAC reference, three timer/PWM modules (6-channel + dual 2-channel), and one FlexIO module capable of emulating UART, SPI, I²C, IrDA, and PWM - enabling flexible I/O expansion without additional ICs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

64-pin LQFP package, 10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, 1.6 mm thickness - compatible with standard surface-mount assembly and reflow profiles (MSL3, lead-free solder max 260 °C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MKL27Z64VLH4 and MKE15Z64VLH4, the MKL33Z64VLH4 uniquely combines segment LCD drive, FlexIO, and sub-2-µA deep-sleep retention - making it irreplaceable in cost-sensitive, battery-powered display applications where peripheral flexibility and ultra-low power coexist.

Availability

MKL33Z64VLH4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, portable medical devices, industrial HMIs, and asset tracking beacons requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MKL33Z64VLH4 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 - formed through the acquisition of Freescale Semiconductor in 2015.

The Kinetis KL33 series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, battery-powered applications requiring integrated segment LCD control and ultra-low-power operation - targeting utility meters, portable diagnostics, and compact industrial interfaces.

FAQ

What is the maximum segment count supported by MKL33Z64VLH4's LCD controller?

The MKL33Z64VLH4 supports up to 44×4 segment drive (44 segments × 4 commons), confirmed in Section 7.1 of the KL33P80M48SF3 Rev. 2 datasheet. This configuration enables direct connection to common 4-digit, 7-segment + decimal point LCD modules used in utility meters and handheld instruments - no external segment drivers required for this scale of display.

Does MKL33Z64VLH4 include a hardware bootloader, and how is it accessed?

Yes, MKL33Z64VLH4 includes an 8 KB ROM-resident bootloader accessible via UART (pins PTA1/PTA2). It supports in-system programming without debugger hardware, using standard UART framing and a defined command set - detailed in Chapter 3.4.1 of the KL33 Reference Manual (KL33P80M48SF3RM1). The bootloader remains functional even after flash erase.

What is the lowest achievable current consumption for MKL33Z64VLH4 in retention mode?

The MKL33Z64VLH4 achieves 1.83 µA in VLLS3 mode with RAM and RTC retained at 3.0 V and 25 °C - verified in Table 9 of the Rev. 2 datasheet. This mode preserves critical variables and timekeeping while allowing wake-up via GPIO, RTC alarm, or LPTMR - essential for decade-long battery operation in metering applications.

Can MKL33Z64VLH4 emulate a UART interface using FlexIO, and what baud rates are supported?

Yes, FlexIO in MKL33Z64VLH4 can emulate UART with programmable start/stop bits, parity, and configurable baud rate. Tested implementations achieve up to 1.5 Mbit/s (per UART module spec), and FlexIO-based UARTs operate reliably at 115.2 kbit/s and 921.6 kbit/s - validated in AN5292 and KL33P80M48SF3RM1 Section 47.3.3.

Is MKL33Z64VLH4 pin-compatible with other Kinetis KL33 variants like MKL33Z32VLH4?

Yes, MKL33Z64VLH4 and MKL33Z32VLH4 share identical 64-pin LQFP packaging, pinout, and electrical characteristics - differing only in flash (64 KB vs. 32 KB) and SRAM (8 KB vs. 4 KB). Both use the same KL33ZxxVLH4 marking format and are drop-in replacements in hardware design, per Freescale's Ordering Information table (Rev. 2, p.64).