NXP Semiconductors MKW36A512VFT4R
- Part No.:
- MKW36A512VFT4R
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MKW36A512VFT4R.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU BLE 48HVQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MKW36A512VFT4R 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 1.71–3.6 V across –40 to 105 °C - deployed in automotive digital key and wireless firmware update systems.
For engineers reviewing the MKW36A512VFT4R datasheet, MKW36A512VFT4R pinout, MKW36A512VFT4R application, or MKW36A512VFT4R equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world use cases, validated alternatives, and supply-ready availability details for automotive-grade BLE + CAN FD embedded designs.
Technical Context
The MKW36A512VFT4R implements a dual-clock RF subsystem with 26/32 MHz crystal support for BLE 5.0 and Generic FSK modes, plus a dedicated 32.768 kHz oscillator for precise low-power timing. Its radio achieves –95 dBm sensitivity at 1 Mbps BLE and –99 dBm at 250 kbps GFSK (h=0.5), with programmable TX output from –30 to +5 dBm.
On-chip peripherals include a DC-DC converter (Buck/Bypass), nine low-power MCU modes (including VLLS0 at 258 nA), AES-128 hardware acceleration, TRNG, and 8 KB FlexRAM for EEPROM emulation - all coordinated via a Crossbar-Lite switch and AIPS-Lite interconnect to support concurrent BLE stack execution, CAN FD messaging, and sensor data acquisition.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | Arm Cortex-M0+, up to 48 MHz - enables real-time BLE Link Layer processing and concurrent application code execution |
| Memory | 512 KB flash + 64 KB SRAM + 8 KB FlexRAM - supports full BLE stack, OTA firmware updates, and EEPROM-emulated parameter storage |
| Radio | BLE 5.0 compliant, 2.4 GHz, up to 8 simultaneous hardware connections - eliminates host MCU dependency for multi-device topology management |
| RF Sensitivity | –95 dBm (BLE 1 Mbps), –99 dBm (250 kbps GFSK) - ensures robust link budget in automotive cabin RF environments |
| TX Power Range | –30 dBm to +5 dBm programmable - allows adaptive power control to meet EIRP limits and extend battery life |
| Operating Voltage | 1.71 V to 3.6 V - compatible with single Li-ion or coin-cell power sources without external regulators |
| Temp Range | –40 °C to +105 °C, AEC Q100 Grade 2 - certified for under-hood and door module deployment |
| CAN Interface | FlexCAN with CAN FD up to 3.2 Mbps - enables direct integration into vehicle body control networks without gateway translation |
Pinout & Package
Package: 48-pin "Wettable" HVQFN, 7×7 mm, 0.5 mm pitch - optimized for automated optical inspection (AOI) and high-reliability automotive reflow.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD_0, VDD_1, VDDA | Analog & digital supply rails | Independent 1.71–3.6 V inputs enable noise isolation between RF, analog, and digital domains |
| VDD_RF1–VDD_RF3 | RF power domain | Dedicated 1.5–3.6 V supply pins for transceiver stability under peak TX current (5.7 mA @ 0 dBm) |
| RF_IN/OUT | Single-ended bidirectional RF port | Integrated on-chip balun eliminates external matching network - reduces BOM count and PCB area |
| PTA0–PTA7, PTB0–PTB7, PTC0–PTC7, PTD0–PTD7, PTE0–PTE4 | GPIO multiplexing bank | 25 configurable digital I/Os in 48-pin package - supports keyboard scan matrix, wake-up IRQ, and LIN-compliant LPUART signaling |
| CAN0_TX, CAN0_RX | FlexCAN differential interface | Direct connection to external CAN transceiver - no level-shifting or protocol translation required for CAN FD bus integration |
| LPUART0_TX/RX, LPUART1_TX/RX | Dual low-power UART | Hardware LIN support on both channels enables dual-bus diagnostics and firmware update paths |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC Q100 Grade 2 qualification | Validated for automotive under-hood and interior modules - eliminates need for additional reliability screening |
| Integrated DC-DC Buck converter | Reduces peak RX current to 6.3 mA and TX current to 5.7 mA @ 0 dBm - extends coin-cell lifetime beyond 5 years in sleep-dominated operation |
| VLLS0 low-power mode | 258 nA quiescent current with RTC and RAM retention - enables always-on wake-on-RF or wake-on-CAN functionality |
| Hardware AES-128 + TRNG | Enables LE Secure Connections and encrypted OTA updates without CPU overhead - meets UNECE R155 cybersecurity requirements |
| On-chip balun + single-ended RF port | Eliminates 6+ external RF components (inductors, capacitors, balun IC) - reduces layout complexity and improves RF repeatability across production lots |
| 8 KB FlexRAM with EEPROM emulation | Persistent non-volatile storage without flash wear leveling - ideal for storing calibration data, security keys, and counter values in safety-critical applications |
Applications
| Digital Key System | Wireless Firmware Update (OTA) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Smartphone-based vehicle access where BLE proximity detection unlocks doors and starts ignition without physical key fob. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone BLE + CAN FD bridge - handles secure pairing, resolvable private address generation, and CAN message injection to body control module. Use Value: Eliminates separate BLE modem + MCU + CAN transceiver architecture - reduces bill-of-materials by 30% and PCB area by 45%. | Use Scenario: Over-the-air updates of ECU firmware via smartphone app or cloud-connected gateway during vehicle service intervals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure bootloader co-processor - verifies AES-128 encrypted firmware images using TRNG-derived keys before flash programming. Use Value: Enables signed, encrypted, and authenticated firmware delivery - satisfies ISO/SAE 21434 cybersecurity process requirements. |
| Automotive Cabin Sensor Hub | Smart Entry Remote Control |
Use Scenario: Centralized BLE sensor node monitoring seat occupancy, ambient temperature, and door status in premium vehicle cabins. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Multi-sensor aggregator - samples ADC and GPIO inputs, runs local decision logic, and reports events via BLE to head unit or telematics control unit. Use Value: Integrates 16-bit ADC, RTC, LPTMR, and 25 GPIOs - removes need for discrete sensor interface IC and timing supervisor. | Use Scenario: Next-generation remote keyless entry (RKE) fob supporting long-range passive entry and push-button start with cryptographic challenge-response. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cryptographic edge node - performs AES-128 encryption, generates random nonces via TRNG, and maintains secure session state in FlexRAM. Use Value: Replaces legacy RKE SoCs with integrated BLE 5.0 + CAN FD + security engine - prevents relay attacks and enables seamless handover to digital key mode. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRF52840-QIAA | No CAN FD, no AEC Q100 qualification, 1 MB flash, no FlexRAM, higher active current (4.6 mA RX) | Suitable for consumer IoT but not automotive CAN-integrated systems | Select when cost-sensitive BLE-only applications require larger flash and USB support |
| S32K144HAT0MLHT | No integrated BLE radio, 1 MB flash, 128 KB SRAM, S32K-specific CAN FD stack, no TRNG/AES hardware | Requires external BLE module and software crypto - increases latency and BOM | Select when deterministic real-time control dominates over wireless connectivity |
Compared with NRF52840-QIAA and S32K144HAT0MLHT, MKW36A512VFT4R uniquely combines automotive-grade qualification, integrated BLE 5.0 + CAN FD, hardware security accelerators, and ultra-low-power modes - enabling single-chip digital key and OTA solutions without compromise on safety, security, or power.
Availability
MKW36A512VFT4R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive digital key systems, wireless firmware update (OTA) gateways, and BLE/CAN FD sensor hubs requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MKW36A512VFT4R 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.
The MKW36A series belongs to NXP's Kinetis W-series wireless MCUs, designed specifically for automotive-grade Bluetooth LE 5.0 and Generic FSK applications requiring AEC Q100 qualification, integrated CAN FD, and hardware security.
FAQ
What is the maximum number of simultaneous Bluetooth Low Energy connections supported by MKW36A512VFT4R?
MKW36A512VFT4R supports up to 8 simultaneous hardware BLE connections in any master/slave combination, as defined in the Bluetooth LE 5.0 Link Layer hardware implementation. This capability is confirmed in the MKW36A/35A/34A Data Sheet Rev. 9 (Section 2.2), enabling multi-device topology management without host MCU intervention. The MKW36A512VFT4R achieves this using dedicated hardware connection state machines and a 26/32 MHz crystal reference for precise timing alignment.
Does MKW36A512VFT4R include CAN FD support, and what is its maximum baud rate?
Yes, MKW36A512VFT4R includes a fully implemented FlexCAN module supporting CAN FD protocol up to 3.2 Mbps baudrate, as documented in the Orderable Parts table and Section 2.5 of the datasheet. This feature is exclusive to the KW36A variant and enables direct integration into automotive body control networks. The MKW36A512VFT4R uses dedicated CAN0_TX and CAN0_RX pins with hardware message buffering (32 × 8-byte mailboxes) and ID filtering - eliminating need for external CAN controller or protocol translation.
What low-power modes are available on MKW36A512VFT4R, and what is the lowest current consumption?
MKW36A512VFT4R offers nine MCU low-power modes, including VLLS0 (Very-Low-Leakage Stop) with 258 nA typical current consumption while retaining RTC and 64 KB SRAM contents. This value is specified in Section 5.2.1 and Table 6.2.5 of the datasheet. The MKW36A512VFT4R achieves ultra-low standby via clock gating, selective peripheral disable, and DC-DC converter bypass - making it suitable for battery-powered automotive sensors requiring multi-year operation.
Is MKW36A512VFT4R qualified for automotive applications, and what standard does it meet?
Yes, MKW36A512VFT4R is AEC Q100 Grade 2 qualified, rated for operation from –40 °C to +105 °C ambient temperature, as stated in the Introduction (Section 1) and Orderable Parts table. This certification validates reliability for under-hood and interior automotive modules. The MKW36A512VFT4R also includes automotive-specific features such as LIN-compliant LPUART, CAN FD, and fault-tolerant power management - fulfilling functional safety prerequisites for ASIL-B–capable systems.
What security features are integrated into MKW36A512VFT4R for BLE applications?
MKW36A512VFT4R integrates AES-128 hardware acceleration, True Random Number Generator (TRNG), LE Secure Connections support, 80-bit unique chip ID, and 40-bit unique MAC sub-address - all confirmed in Sections 2.6 and 4.3 of the datasheet. These features enable cryptographically secure pairing, encrypted OTA updates, and device authentication. The MKW36A512VFT4R leverages these blocks to implement Bluetooth LE Secure Connections without CPU overhead, satisfying UNECE R155 cybersecurity management system requirements.
MKW36A512VFT4R Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- -
- 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:
- -99dBm
- Memory Size:
- 512kB Flash, 64kB SRAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART
- GPIO:
- 25
- 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:
- 48-HVQFN (7x7)
MKW36A512VFT4R FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MKW36A512VFT4R through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MKW36A512VFT4R 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 MKW36A512VFT4R reliable?
The price and inventory of MKW36A512VFT4R are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MKW36A512VFT4R is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MKW36A512VFT4R?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MKW36A512VFT4R transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MKW36A512VFT4R?
MKW36A512VFT4R orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MKW36A512VFT4R 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 MKW36A512VFT4R?
For technical support, including MKW36A512VFT4R datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MKW36A512VFT4R requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MKW36A512VFT4R is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MKW36A512VFT4R 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 MKW36A512VFT4R meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MKW36A512VFT4R?
All MKW36A512VFT4R units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MKW36A512VFT4R, 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 MKW36A512VFT4R part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MKW36A512VFT4R:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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