NXP Semiconductors MKW31Z256VHT4

Overview

MKW31Z256VHT4 from NXP Semiconductors is a Bluetooth Low Energy v4.2 and Generic FSK System-on-Chip (SoC) integrating an ARM Cortex-M0+ core running at up to 48 MHz, 256 KB on-chip Flash, 64 KB SRAM, and a 2.4 GHz radio transceiver with -95 dBm BLE sensitivity and programmable output power from -30 dBm to +3.5 dBm. It targets ultra-low-power wireless sensor nodes in wearable health monitors and remote controls.

For engineers reviewing the MKW31Z256VHT4 datasheet, MKW31Z256VHT4 pinout, MKW31Z256VHT4 application, or MKW31Z256VHT4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 48-pin LQFN package, dual-standard radio support (BLE + FSK), integrated DC-DC converter for coin-cell operation, hardware AES-128 acceleration, and -40°C to +105°C industrial temperature rating.

Technical Context

The MKW31Z256VHT4 implements a single-chip BLE/FSK SoC architecture with dedicated hardware accelerators for BLE Link Layer (dual simultaneous connections), IEEE 802.15.4 packet processing, and AES-128 encryption. Its radio supports GFSK modulation (BT = 0.3/0.5/0.7) and FSK/MSK at 250/500/1000 kbps with on-chip balun and single-ended RF port.

System-level power management includes nine low-power modes, VLLS0 mode drawing only 182 nA, and a configurable DC-DC converter operating in Buck (2.1–4.2 V), Boost (0.9–1.795 V), or Bypass modes - enabling direct operation from CR2032 or AA/AAA batteries without external regulators.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin Laminate QFN, 7 mm × 7 mm × 0.98 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 multi-standard wireless SoC applications.

Compared with MKW31Z256VHT4, MKW41Z256VHT4 adds 802.15.4 hardware acceleration at no pinout or power penalty, while MKW31Z512VHT4 delivers double memory headroom for future-proofing - both retain identical BLE/FSK performance and industrial temperature rating.

Availability

MKW31Z256VHT4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable health monitors, smart remote controls, and industrial sensor nodes requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MKW31Z256VHT4 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, and IoT markets, with deep expertise in wireless SoCs and embedded security.

The MKW31Z series belongs to NXP's KW31Z family of ultra-low-power multi-standard wireless MCUs, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, battery-operated BLE and proprietary FSK endpoints where minimal external components and long operational life are critical.

FAQ

What radio standards does the MKW31Z256VHT4 support?

The MKW31Z256VHT4 supports Bluetooth Low Energy v4.2 with hardware-accelerated Link Layer for up to two simultaneous connections, and Generic FSK modulation at 250/500/1000 kbps with programmable modulation index (0.32/0.5/0.7). It does not support IEEE 802.15.4 O-QPSK - that capability is exclusive to the MKW41Z variant. The MKW31Z256VHT4 uses a single 32 MHz crystal for timing across both standards.

Does the MKW31Z256VHT4 include hardware security features?

Yes, the MKW31Z256VHT4 integrates an AES-128 hardware accelerator supporting CCM, GCM, ECB, and CBC modes; a True Random Number Generator (TRNG) compliant with NIST SP 800-90B; advanced flash security with execute-only memory protection; and an 80-bit unique chip identifier. These features directly enable BLE Secure Connections and secure over-the-air firmware updates - all implemented without CPU intervention.

What is the lowest power consumption mode of the MKW31Z256VHT4?

The MKW31Z256VHT4 achieves 182 nA in Very-Low-Leakage Stop (VLLS0) mode with RTC running and RAM retention enabled. This mode maintains timekeeping and preserves critical state while allowing wake-up via GPIO, LPTMR compare, or RTC alarm - making it ideal for multi-year battery life in intermittent-sensing applications like smart locks or environmental monitors.

Can the MKW31Z256VHT4 operate directly from a single AA alkaline battery?

Yes, the MKW31Z256VHT4's integrated DC-DC converter supports Boost mode down to 0.9 V input, enabling full functionality across the entire useful voltage range of a standard AA alkaline cell (1.5 V fresh → 0.9 V depleted). In Boost mode, it delivers regulated 1.8 V to internal circuits while maintaining BLE advertising current under 7 mA - eliminating need for external voltage regulation.

What package and pin count does the MKW31Z256VHT4 use?

The MKW31Z256VHT4 uses a 48-pin Laminate QFN package measuring 7 mm × 7 mm × 0.98 mm with 0.5 mm pitch. It provides 26 general-purpose I/O pins supporting multiple peripheral functions (SPI/I²C/UART/ADC/TPM), plus dedicated RF, power, clock, and debug interfaces. This package is distinct from the 75-pin WLCSP used in CAT4 variants and is rated for -40°C to +105°C operation.