NXP Semiconductors MKL36Z256VLL4

Overview

MKL36Z256VLL4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM® Cortex®-M0+ based microcontroller in 100-pin LQFP package, featuring 256 KB flash, 32 KB SRAM, and integrated segment LCD controller supporting up to 47 frontplanes/8 backplanes. It delivers ultra-low-power operation down to 0.23 µA in VLLS0 mode with full state retention and 4.5 µs wakeup, targeting battery-powered industrial HMI and portable medical devices.

For engineers reviewing the MKL36Z256VLL4 datasheet, MKL36Z256VLL4 pinout, MKL36Z256VLL4 application, or MKL36Z256VLL4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 48 MHz Cortex-M0+ core, 16-bit SAR ADC + 12-bit DAC analog suite, dual UART/I²C/SPI interfaces, low-leakage wakeup unit, and support for -40°C to +105°C extended temperature operation.

Technical Context

The MKL36Z256VLL4 implements an energy-optimized ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Bit Manipulation Engine and Micro Trace Buffer, paired with a multi-layer bus architecture enabling concurrent peripheral access. Its clock system integrates MCG with FBE/BLPE/FEI modes, supporting crystal (32 kHz–32 MHz) and internal reference sources for dynamic power-mode transitions.

System-level low-power design includes nine configurable power modes (RUN, VLPR, VLPS, STOP, LLS, VLLS0–3), clock/power gating, zero-wait-state flash, and dedicated low-leakage wakeup logic. The segment LCD controller operates independently in VLLS1 with external 32 kHz crystal, while TSI hardware touch sensing enables capacitive button detection without CPU intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 100-pin LQFP (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MKL36Z256VLL4, MKL27Z256VLH4 trades LCD capability and GPIO count for smaller footprint, while MKE15Z256VLH4 upgrades analog subsystem at the expense of display support-making MKL36Z256VLL4 uniquely balanced for cost-sensitive, display-equipped industrial edge devices.

Availability

MKL36Z256VLL4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMI panels, portable medical monitors, smart utility meters, and asset tracking beacons requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MKL36Z256VLL4 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 Kinetis KL36 family was designed as an entry-level 32-bit MCU platform emphasizing ultra-low-power operation, integrated human-machine interface peripherals (LCD, TSI), and seamless compatibility across Kinetis L and K3x families for scalable design reuse.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL36Z256VLL4 core?

The MKL36Z256VLL4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz operation. This frequency is achievable using the MCG in PEE mode with an external crystal or internal reference, and is validated across the full 1.71–3.6 V supply range and -40°C to +105°C temperature range per the KL36P121M48SF4 datasheet Rev 5.

Does the MKL36Z256VLL4 support segment LCD driving without external components?

Yes, the MKL36Z256VLL4 integrates a dedicated segment LCD controller capable of driving up to 47 frontplanes and 8 backplanes (376 segments) or 51 frontplanes and 4 backplanes (204 segments) using internal resistor bias networks and charge pump. No external LCD driver IC is required for basic alphanumeric displays.

What low-power modes are available on the MKL36Z256VLL4, and what is the lowest current consumption?

The MKL36Z256VLL4 supports nine low-power modes, including VLLS0 (Very-Low-Leakage Stop Mode 0). In VLLS0 with PORPO=1, it achieves 0.23 µA typical current at 25°C and 3.0 V while retaining full SRAM and register contents, with 4.5 µs wakeup time - verified in the KL36P121M48SF4 datasheet Table 9.

How many GPIO pins does the MKL36Z256VLL4 provide, and are they all multiplexed?

The MKL36Z256VLL4 provides 84 general-purpose I/O pins across five ports (PTA–PTE), all of which support pin multiplexing for alternate peripheral functions including UART, I²C, SPI, TPM, ADC, TSI, and LCD segment/backplane outputs - confirmed in the "Ordering Information" table and "Signal Multiplexing" section of the KL36P121M48SF4 datasheet.

What analog peripherals are integrated into the MKL36Z256VLL4?

The MKL36Z256VLL4 integrates a 16-bit SAR ADC with programmable gain amplifier, a 12-bit DAC, and an analog comparator (CMP) with integrated 6-bit DAC and programmable reference input. These are documented in Sections 3.6.1–3.6.3 of the KL36P121M48SF4 datasheet with full electrical specifications across temperature and voltage ranges.