NXP Semiconductors MKL36Z256VMP4

Overview

MKL36Z256VMP4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller in 64-pin MAPBGA packaging, featuring 256 KB flash, 32 KB SRAM, segment LCD controller (up to 47×8), 16-bit SAR ADC, and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.23 µA in VLLS0 mode with full state retention. It targets battery-powered HMI, portable medical devices, and smart sensors requiring long runtime and integrated display support.

For engineers reviewing the MKL36Z256VMP4 datasheet, MKL36Z256VMP4 pinout, MKL36Z256VMP4 application, or MKL36Z256VMP4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin MAPBGA footprint, 1.71–3.6 V supply range, -40°C to +105°C operating temperature, nine low-power modes, and compatibility with Kinetis L-family toolchains and peripherals.

Technical Context

The MKL36Z256VMP4 implements an ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Bit Manipulation Engine and Micro Trace Buffer, paired with a multi-source clock system including 32 kHz–32 MHz crystal oscillator support and internal 4 MHz/32 kHz IRC. Its power architecture integrates clock gating, dynamic voltage scaling, and dedicated low-leakage wakeup unit for sub-µA stop modes.

Peripheral integration includes two UARTs, two I²C modules, two SPI interfaces, I²S/SAI, six-channel TPM, 16-bit LPTMR, RTC, TSI touch interface, and analog subsystem with 16-bit ADC, 12-bit DAC, and comparator with embedded 6-bit DAC - all accessible under VLPR/VLPS modes without wake-up latency penalty.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

64-pin MAPBGA (MP) package, 5 mm × 5 mm × 1.23 mm, 0.5 mm pitch. Pinout validated per KL36P121M48SF4 datasheet Rev 5 (2014), Section 5.2 "KL36 pinouts" and package drawing 98ASA00420D1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MKL36Z256VMP4, MKL26Z128VLH4 offers identical low-power performance in a larger LQFP package without LCD capability, while MKE14Z128VLH4 provides superior analog front-end features at the expense of display integration - making MKL36Z256VMP4 uniquely optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained LCD HMI designs.

Availability

MKL36Z256VMP4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical monitors, smart utility meters, industrial HMI panels, and asset tracking beacons requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and verified MAPBGA solderability.

Supply support for MKL36Z256VMP4 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 (LCD/TSI), and seamless migration within the broader Kinetis portfolio - targeting cost-sensitive, battery-operated embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL36Z256VMP4 core?

The MKL36Z256VMP4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz operation in normal run mode using the FBE or PEE clock mode. In very-low-power run (VLPR) mode, the maximum core frequency is 4 MHz - a deliberate trade-off enabling 192 µA typical current draw at 3.0 V while retaining full register state and interrupt responsiveness.

Does the MKL36Z256VMP4 support external crystal oscillators?

Yes, the MKL36Z256VMP4 supports external crystals from 32 kHz to 32 MHz via XTAL0/XTAL1 pins. The MCG module allows configuration for low-frequency (32 kHz) crystals for RTC accuracy or high-frequency (up to 32 MHz) crystals for system clock generation - both validated per KL36P121M48SF4 datasheet Section 3.3.2.

What LCD configurations does the MKL36Z256VMP4 support?

The MKL36Z256VMP4 LCD controller supports two configurations: 47 frontplanes × 8 backplanes (376 segments) or 51 frontplanes × 4 backplanes (204 segments). It includes programmable bias, frame frequency, and internal charge pump - enabling direct drive of reflective LCD glass without external components.

What is the lowest power consumption mode available on the MKL36Z256VMP4?

The MKL36Z256VMP4 achieves its lowest power in Very-Low-Leakage Stop Mode 0 (VLLS0) with PORPO=1, consuming just 0.23 µA typical at 25°C and 3.0 V. This mode retains full RAM and register contents, supports wake-up from LPTMR, RTC, or GPIO, and recovers in 4.5 µs - ideal for infrequent-event sensing applications.

Is the MKL36Z256VMP4 pin-compatible with other Kinetis L-series MCUs?

The MKL36Z256VMP4 shares the same 64-pin MAPBGA (MP) footprint and signal multiplexing as other MKL36ZxxxVMP4 variants (e.g., MKL36Z128VMP4), but is not pin-compatible with LQFP or different pin-count packages (e.g., VLH4, VLL4). Migration within the KL36 family requires matching package type and verifying peripheral pin assignments per KL36P121M48SF4 Section 5.1.