NXP Semiconductors MKL33Z64VLK4

Overview

MKL33Z64VLK4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM® Cortex®-M0+ microcontroller with 64 KB flash, 8 KB SRAM, and integrated segment LCD driver 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 applications.

For engineers reviewing the MKL33Z64VLK4 datasheet, MKL33Z64VLK4 pinout, MKL33Z64VLK4 application, or MKL33Z64VLK4 equivalent, key selection criteria include low-power run mode (60 µA/MHz), deep-sleep current (1.83 µA with RAM + RTC retained), 70 GPIOs in 80-pin LQFP, and integrated 16-bit ADC with 20-channel support.

Technical Context

The MKL33Z64VLK4 implements an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Micro Trace Buffer and two-pin SWD debug interface. Its clock system integrates a 48 MHz high-accuracy internal reference (±0.5%), dual low-frequency oscillators (1 kHz active in all low-power modes, 32–40 kHz crystal support), and MCG-Lite for flexible power-mode transitions.

Peripherals include one 16-bit 818 ksps ADC with internal voltage reference, two 16-bit SPI modules (24 Mbit/s), two I²C modules (1 Mbit/s), three UARTs (one ISO7816-compliant), FlexIO for custom serial protocol emulation, and a dedicated segment LCD controller driving up to 44×4 segments without external bias.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 80-pin LQFP, 12 mm × 12 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, 1.6 mm thickness (JEDEC MS-026).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MKL27Z64VLH4 and MKE15Z64VLK4, the MKL33Z64VLK4 uniquely combines ultra-low-power operation, integrated segment LCD control, and FlexIO - making it the only option among the three for cost-sensitive, battery-powered HMI applications requiring on-chip display management.

Availability

MKL33Z64VLK4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, portable medical displays, industrial panel indicators, and asset tracking beacons requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MKL33Z64VLK4 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.

The Kinetis KL33 series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, battery-operated human-machine interface applications requiring integrated segment LCD control and sub-µA deep-sleep operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL33Z64VLK4?

The MKL33Z64VLK4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with a maximum operating frequency of 48 MHz, supported by its high-accuracy internal reference clock (±0.5% tolerance). This frequency is achievable across the full –40 to 105 °C temperature range and 1.71–3.6 V supply voltage, as verified in the official Freescale/Kinetis KL33 datasheet Rev. 2 (2015).

Does the MKL33Z64VLK4 support external crystal oscillators?

Yes, the MKL33Z64VLK4 supports both 32–40 kHz and 3–32 MHz external crystal oscillators. The 32 kHz crystal is used for RTC operation in ultra-low-power modes (VLLS1/VLLS3), while the higher-frequency crystal enables precise timing for communication interfaces or system clock derivation. Configuration is handled via the MCG-Lite module.

How many ADC channels does the MKL33Z64VLK4 provide, and what is its resolution?

The MKL33Z64VLK4 integrates a single 16-bit successive-approximation ADC with up to 20 input channels (17 single-ended or 3 differential). It achieves 818 ksps sampling rate and includes a high-accuracy internal voltage reference (VBG = 1.00 V ±3%) - enabling precision analog measurements without external reference components.

What LCD segment configurations does the MKL33Z64VLK4 support?

The MKL33Z64VLK4 supports three LCD segment configurations: 40×8, 42×6, or 44×4 segments - selectable via configuration registers. It includes an integrated charge pump and bias generator, eliminating the need for external LCD driver ICs or external bias supplies in battery-powered HMI designs.

Is the MKL33Z64VLK4 pin-compatible with other Kinetis KL33 variants?

The MKL33Z64VLK4 uses an 80-pin LQFP package (12×12 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), which is identical to MKL33Z32VLK4 and distinct from 48-QFN, 64-LQFP, or 64-BGA variants. Within the 80-pin LQFP family, pinouts are fully compatible across flash-size variants (32 KB vs. 64 KB), enabling scalable design reuse without PCB revision.