NXP Semiconductors MKL46Z128VLH4

Overview

MKL46Z128VLH4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller in 64-pin LQFP package, featuring 128 KB flash, 16 KB SRAM, USB 2.0 On-The-Go with on-chip transceiver, segment LCD controller (up to 47×8), and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.41 µA in VLLS0 mode. It targets battery-powered HMI, portable medical devices, and smart sensors requiring robust low-power performance and integrated analog peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the MKL46Z128VLH4 datasheet, MKL46Z128VLH4 pinout, MKL46Z128VLH4 application, or MKL46Z128VLH4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 48 MHz Cortex-M0+ core, 16-bit SAR ADC + 12-bit DAC + analog comparator, nine low-power modes, 50 GPIOs, and compatibility with Kinetis L-family toolchains and SDKs.

Technical Context

The MKL46Z128VLH4 implements a tightly coupled 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, PEE) supporting internal 4 MHz/32 kHz IRC and external crystals up to 16 MHz.

System-level power management includes nine configurable low-power modes (RUN, VLPR, STOP, VLPS, LLS, VLLS0–3), dynamic clock gating, and peripheral-specific current adders-enabling precise trade-offs between wakeup latency (as low as 4.5 µs from VLPS) and static current (down to 0.41 µA at 25°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 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 MKL26Z128VLH4 and MKE02Z64VLH4, the MKL46Z128VLH4 uniquely combines USB OTG with integrated transceiver, segment LCD controller, and ultra-low-power VLLS0 mode-making it the only option among the three for self-contained, battery-powered HMI devices requiring USB provisioning and local display.

Availability

MKL46Z128VLH4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical monitors, smart energy meters, industrial HMI panels, and wireless sensor nodes requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MKL46Z128VLH4 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 KL46 sub-family, including MKL46Z128VLH4, was designed as an entry-level 32-bit MCU platform emphasizing ultra-low-power operation, integrated human-machine interface peripherals (LCD, TSI), and USB connectivity for cost-sensitive embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL46Z128VLH4 core?

The MKL46Z128VLH4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz operation. This frequency is achievable using the PEE clock mode with an external crystal or internal reference, and is validated across the full voltage range (1.71–3.6 V) and temperature range (–40 to +105°C). The MKL46Z128VLH4 maintains full functionality-including USB, ADC, and LCD-at this speed.

Does the MKL46Z128VLH4 support USB device mode without external components?

Yes, the MKL46Z128VLH4 integrates a full-speed USB 2.0 transceiver and a 5 V-to-3.3 V regulator, enabling standalone USB device operation. Only two 27 Ω series resistors on USB_DP/USB_DM and a 1.5 kΩ pull-up resistor on USB_DP are required for compliance. No external PHY or voltage translator is needed, simplifying design and reducing BOM cost for the MKL46Z128VLH4.

What LCD configurations does the MKL46Z128VLH4 support?

The MKL46Z128VLH4 LCD controller supports two segment configurations: up to 47 frontplanes × 8 backplanes (376 segments) or 51 frontplanes × 4 backplanes (204 segments). It includes internal bias generation, programmable frame rate (up to 128 Hz), and 1/2–1/8 duty cycle support. These capabilities are fully implemented in the MKL46Z128VLH4's 64-pin LQFP package with dedicated LCD segment pins.

How many low-power modes does the MKL46Z128VLH4 offer, and what is the lowest current draw?

The MKL46Z128VLH4 provides nine distinct low-power modes, including VLLS0 (Very Low-Leakage Stop Mode 0). In VLLS0 with PORPO = 1, the MKL46Z128VLH4 achieves a typical current draw of 0.23 µA at 25°C and 3.0 V, retaining full RAM and register state while allowing wake on GPIO, RTC alarm, or LLWU events-critical for long-life battery applications using the MKL46Z128VLH4.

Is the MKL46Z128VLH4 pin-compatible with other Kinetis L-series MCUs?

The MKL46Z128VLH4 uses a 64-pin LQFP package shared with several Kinetis L devices (e.g., MKL26Z128VLH4), but pin functions are not fully interchangeable due to differences in peripheral mapping-especially USB, LCD, and TSI signals. While mechanical footprint matches, PCB layout must be verified against the MKL46Z128VLH4-specific pin assignment table; direct replacement without firmware and schematic review is not supported.