NXP Semiconductors MKW36A512VFP4R
- Part No.:
- MKW36A512VFP4R
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 40-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MKW36A512VFP4R.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU BLE 40HVQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,599
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Product details
Overview
MKW36A512VFP4R from NXP Semiconductors is an AEC Q100 Grade 2 qualified Bluetooth Low Energy 5.0 wireless microcontroller integrating an Arm® Cortex®-M0+ core (up to 48 MHz), 512 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, and a 2.4 GHz radio supporting up to 8 simultaneous BLE connections. It features FlexCAN with CAN FD support up to 3.2 Mbps, dual LPUART with LIN, and operates from 1.71 V to 3.6 V across –40 °C to 105 °C for automotive digital key and wireless firmware update systems.
For engineers reviewing the MKW36A512VFP4R datasheet, MKW36A512VFP4R pinout, MKW36A512VFP4R application, or MKW36A512VFP4R equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-specific pin mapping, real-world use cases in automotive connectivity, and validated alternative parts with documented functional and interface differences.
Technical Context
The MKW36A512VFP4R implements a dual-clock radio architecture with independent 26/32 MHz crystals for BLE/FSK operation and a 32.768 kHz crystal for RTC timing. Its integrated DC-DC converter supports buck mode (2.1–3.6 V input) and bypass mode, enabling coin-cell operation with 258 nA VLLS0 current draw.
It integrates FlexCAN with full CAN FD protocol compliance, 32 configurable message buffers, and hardware ID filtering for up to 512 partial IDs. The MCU includes two LPUARTs with LIN break detection, AES-128 hardware acceleration, TRNG, and 80-bit unique chip ID - all required for secure automotive wireless access applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | Arm Cortex-M0+, up to 48 MHz - enables real-time BLE stack execution with low power budget. |
| Memory | 512 KB flash + 64 KB SRAM + 8 KB FlexRAM - supports dual-bank firmware updates and EEPROM emulation. |
| Radio | BLE 5.0 compliant, –95 dBm sensitivity @ 1 Mbps - ensures robust link budget in automotive cabin environments. |
| Power | 258 nA VLLS0 current, 6.3 mA typical Rx (DC-DC buck) - extends battery life beyond 10 years in key fob applications. |
| Interface | FlexCAN (CAN FD up to 3.2 Mbps), 2× LPUART with LIN, 2× I²C, 2× SPI - enables seamless integration into vehicle CAN networks and sensor subsystems. |
| Security | AES-128 hardware accelerator, TRNG, 80-bit UID, LE Secure Connections - meets automotive-grade cryptographic requirements for digital key provisioning. |
| Qualification | AEC Q100 Grade 2 (–40 °C to 105 °C), 1.71–3.6 V supply - certified for under-hood and door module deployment. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 40-pin "Wettable" HVQFN, 6×6 mm, 0.5 mm pitch - optimized for automated optical inspection (AOI) and high-reliability solder joint formation in automotive PCB assembly.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD_0, VDD_1, VDDA | Analog & digital supply | 1.71–3.6 V operation; VDDA powers ADC/CMP/VREF for precision analog sensing. |
| VDD_RF1, VDD_RF2, VDD_RF3 | RF supply rails | Separate 1.5–3.6 V domains isolate RF noise from digital logic; enable stable transceiver performance. |
| RF_IN/OUT | Bidirectional RF port | Single-ended interface with on-chip balun - eliminates external matching network, reducing BOM cost and board area. |
| CAN_H / CAN_L | CAN FD differential pair | Direct connection to vehicle CAN bus; supports 3.2 Mbps data rate with built-in fault protection and loopback diagnostics. |
| LPUART0_TX / LPUART0_RX | Primary LIN-capable UART | Supports LIN 2.2 frame structure and break detection - enables communication with body control modules without external transceiver. |
| PTA0–PTA17 | GPIO bank A | 18 total GPIOs in 40-pin package; all support IRQ/wake-up - sufficient for button matrix, LED drivers, and sensor interfaces in compact modules. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual LPUART with LIN | Enables direct communication with automotive body electronics using standard LIN physical layer - eliminates need for external LIN transceivers. |
| FlexCAN with CAN FD | Provides 3.2 Mbps bandwidth and payload expansion for OTA firmware updates and diagnostic data streaming over existing vehicle CAN infrastructure. |
| On-chip balun & single-ended RF port | Reduces external RF components to zero - cuts bill-of-materials cost and simplifies layout for compact key fob and access module designs. |
| VLLS0 mode @ 258 nA | Allows multi-year operation on CR2032 coin cell - meets OEM requirements for passive entry systems with no user maintenance. |
| AES-128 + TRNG + UID | Hardware-enforced cryptographic primitives meet ISO 21434 and UNECE R155 cybersecurity management system (CSMS) requirements for vehicle access systems. |
Applications
| Digital Key FOB | Wireless ECU Diagnostics |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Smartphone-based vehicle unlock and engine start via BLE proximity detection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone BLE modem and security processor handling LE Secure Connections, AES-128 encryption, and CAN FD command relay. Use Value: Eliminates mechanical key duplication risk; enables temporary access delegation via cloud API with cryptographically signed session keys. | Use Scenario: Wireless OBD-II diagnostics using smartphone app without physical cable connection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bridge between BLE host and vehicle CAN FD bus - translates BLE GATT commands to CAN FD frames with <10 ms latency. Use Value: Reduces service bay labor time by 40% through wireless DTC read/clear and live parameter streaming at 3.2 Mbps. |
| Secure OTA Firmware Update | Automotive Sensor Hub |
Use Scenario: Over-the-air delivery of safety-critical firmware patches to door modules and seat controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Trusted execution environment verifying signed firmware images in flash before installation; uses FlexRAM for secure boot staging. Use Value: Meets ISO/SAE 21434 requirement for integrity-checked updates - prevents unauthorized code injection during transmission. | Use Scenario: Centralized acquisition of door handle capacitance, ambient temperature, and battery voltage for predictive maintenance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power sensor aggregator with 16-bit ADC, CMP, and VREF - samples analog sensors every 500 ms in VLPS mode. Use Value: Achieves <2 µA average current per sensor channel - extends 200 mAh battery life to >7 years in sealed door modules. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKW36A512VFT4 | 48-pin "Wettable" HVQFN (7×7 mm); adds 7 GPIOs and 2 additional analog inputs vs. VFP4R. | Preferred for designs requiring more sensor interfaces or debug signals; same FlexCAN/LPUART feature set. | Select when PCB layout allows larger footprint and higher I/O count is needed for future-proofing. |
| MKW35A512VFP4 | No FlexCAN or second LPUART; lacks CAN FD and LIN support; identical 40-pin HVQFN package. | Suitable only for non-automotive BLE sensor nodes where CAN integration is unnecessary. | Choose only if automotive qualification and vehicle bus connectivity are not required - lower cost but no CAN FD path. |
Compared with MKW36A512VFP4R, MKW36A512VFT4 offers expanded I/O in a larger package while retaining identical automotive qualification and CAN FD capability; MKW35A512VFP4 removes critical automotive interfaces entirely, making it unsuitable for vehicle network integration despite shared package size.
Availability
MKW36A512VFP4R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive digital key systems, wireless ECU diagnostics, secure OTA firmware updates, and sensor hub modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MKW36A512VFP4R 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 company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.
The KW36A product line was designed specifically for automotive-grade wireless connectivity - integrating BLE 5.0, CAN FD, LIN, and hardware security to replace legacy key fobs and enable secure vehicle-to-smartphone interaction.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range certified for MKW36A512VFP4R?
MKW36A512VFP4R is AEC Q100 Grade 2 qualified with a certified ambient operating range of –40 °C to 105 °C. This rating covers junction temperature limits under specified voltage and load conditions, enabling deployment in door modules, center consoles, and other automotive locations exposed to extreme thermal cycling without derating.
Does MKW36A512VFP4R support Bluetooth LE 5.0 features like Long Range and Advertising Extensions?
Yes, MKW36A512VFP4R implements the Bluetooth LE 5.0 Link Layer hardware with full support for 2 Mbps PHY, LE Advertising Extensions, and LE Channel Selection Algorithm #2. Its radio architecture enables concurrent scanning and advertising with up to 8 simultaneous connections - essential for multi-device digital key scenarios.
How does the DC-DC converter in MKW36A512VFP4R reduce power consumption during BLE receive operations?
The integrated DC-DC converter in MKW36A512VFP4R operates in buck mode to regulate VDD from 2.1–3.6 V input, delivering 6.3 mA typical current during BLE receive - 35% lower than linear regulator operation. This directly extends battery life in key fob applications powered by CR2032 cells.
Can MKW36A512VFP4R be used as a standalone BLE modem without external host MCU?
Yes, MKW36A512VFP4R is designed for both standalone and host-attached operation. With 512 KB flash, 64 KB SRAM, and full BLE stack support, it runs complete applications including LE Secure Connections pairing, AES-128 encryption, and CAN FD bridging - eliminating need for external controller in compact access modules.
What package-specific limitations apply to MKW36A512VFP4R compared to the 48-pin variants?
MKW36A512VFP4R uses a 40-pin "Wettable" HVQFN (6×6 mm), limiting GPIO count to 18 versus 25 in 48-pin packages. It retains all core automotive peripherals - FlexCAN, dual LPUART, AES-128, and VLLS0 - but omits secondary analog inputs and certain debug pins present in larger variants.
MKW36A512VFP4R Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- Kinetis KW36A
- Package/Case:
- 40-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- Bluetooth
- Protocol:
- Bluetooth v5.0
- Modulation:
- FSK, GFSK, MSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 1Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 5dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -95dBm
- Memory Size:
- 265kB Flash, 64kB RAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- I2C, SPI, UART
- GPIO:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.71V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 6.3mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 5.7mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Supplier Device Package:
- 40-HVQFN (6x6)
MKW36A512VFP4R FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MKW36A512VFP4R through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MKW36A512VFP4R on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MKW36A512VFP4R reliable?
The price and inventory of MKW36A512VFP4R are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MKW36A512VFP4R is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MKW36A512VFP4R?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MKW36A512VFP4R transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MKW36A512VFP4R?
MKW36A512VFP4R orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MKW36A512VFP4R order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MKW36A512VFP4R?
For technical support, including MKW36A512VFP4R datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MKW36A512VFP4R requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MKW36A512VFP4R is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MKW36A512VFP4R products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MKW36A512VFP4R meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MKW36A512VFP4R?
All MKW36A512VFP4R units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MKW36A512VFP4R, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MKW36A512VFP4R part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MKW36A512VFP4R:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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