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NXP Semiconductors MKW38A512VFT4R
- Part No.:
- MKW38A512VFT4R
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MKW38A512VFT4R.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 32BIT 256KB FLASH 48VFQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,511
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Product details
Overview
MKW38A512VFT4 from NXP Semiconductors is an AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualified Bluetooth® Low Energy 5.0 wireless microcontroller featuring an Arm® Cortex-M0+ core running at up to 48 MHz, 512 KB flash memory, integrated FlexCAN supporting CAN FD up to 3.2 Mbit/s, and a 2.4 GHz radio with –105 dBm sensitivity in BLE LR 125 kbit/s mode. It targets automotive digital key, remote diagnostics, and industrial sensor nodes requiring secure, low-power wireless connectivity.
For engineers reviewing the MKW38A512VFT4 datasheet, MKW38A512VFT4 pinout, MKW38A512VFT4 application, or MKW38A512VFT4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual LPUART with LIN support, on-chip balun for minimal RF BOM, DC-DC buck mode enabling coin-cell operation, AES-128 hardware acceleration, and automotive-grade thermal range (–40 to 105 °C).
Technical Context
The MKW38A512VFT4 integrates a Bluetooth LE 5.0-compliant transceiver with full support for high-speed (2 Mbit/s), long-range (125/500 kbit/s coded PHY), advertising extensions, and channel selection algorithm #2 - all implemented in hardware with up to 8 simultaneous connections. Its radio supports Generic FSK modulation at 250–2000 kbit/s with programmable output power (–30 to +5 dBm) and uses an on-chip balun with single-ended RF port.
System-level features include nine low-power modes (including VLLS0 at 266.6 nA), a configurable DC-DC converter (buck/bypass), 64 KB SRAM, 8 KB FlexRAM for EEPROM emulation, and a full FlexCAN module compliant with CAN FD protocol - distinguishing it from MKW39/37 variants and enabling direct integration into automotive CAN networks without external controllers.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core | Arm Cortex-M0+, up to 48 MHz - enables real-time BLE stack execution and sensor fusion with low latency. |
| Memory | 512 KB flash + 64 KB SRAM + 8 KB FlexRAM - supports over-the-air firmware updates and EEPROM emulation without external storage. |
| BLE Sensitivity | –105 dBm @ 125 kbit/s LR mode - extends wireless range in noisy automotive environments without external LNA. |
| Transceiver Power | –30 dBm to +5 dBm programmable output - allows precise RF link budget tuning for varying antenna efficiency and enclosure loss. |
| FlexCAN | CAN FD compliant, up to 3.2 Mbit/s baudrate - enables high-bandwidth communication with ECUs and sensors in vehicle networks. |
| Low-Power Mode | VLLS0 current = 266.6 nA - permits multi-year battery life in always-on proximity sensing or wake-on-RF applications. |
| Operating Voltage | 1.71 V to 3.6 V - compatible with single Li-ion, Li-SOCl₂, or coin-cell batteries without external regulators. |
| Qualification | AEC-Q100 Grade 2 (–40 to 105 °C) - certified for under-hood and cabin-mounted automotive electronics. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 48-pin "Wettable" HVQFN, 7 × 7 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 rails | Support 1.71–3.6 V operation; VDDA powers ADC/CMP/VREF for precision analog performance. |
| VDD_RF1, VDD_RF2, VDD_RF3 | RF subsystem supplies | Independent 1.5–3.6 V inputs enable RF section optimization and noise isolation from digital domains. |
| RF_IN/OUT | Single-ended bidirectional RF port | Connects directly to antenna via matching network; internal balun eliminates discrete balun requirement. |
| CAN_H / CAN_L | FlexCAN differential bus interface | Direct connection to automotive CAN FD physical layer; supports 3.2 Mbit/s with built-in error handling and message buffering. |
| LPUART0_TX / LPUART0_RX / LPUART1_TX / LPUART1_RX | Dual low-power UART interfaces | Enable concurrent debug (LPUART0) and LIN-compliant vehicle bus communication (LPUART1) without CPU overhead. |
| SWD_DIO / SWD_CLK | Serial Wire Debug interface | Two-pin debug access supports programming, trace (MTB), and real-time monitoring during development and field diagnostics. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated FlexCAN with CAN FD | Eliminates need for external CAN controller or transceiver in automotive gateway and ECU bridging designs. |
| On-chip balun + single-ended RF port | Reduces RF BOM count by ≥3 components (balun, matching caps, inductor), shrinking layout area and validation effort. |
| Dual LPUART with LIN support | Enables seamless integration into legacy vehicle diagnostic buses while maintaining BLE wireless functionality. |
| AES-128 hardware accelerator + TRNG | Accelerates BLE Secure Connections pairing and firmware encryption without degrading real-time MCU performance. |
| DC-DC buck mode (6.3 mA Rx typical) | Extends coin-cell battery life beyond 5 years in periodic beaconing or sensor reporting use cases. |
| Hardware whitelisting (26 devices) | Offloads connection filtering from firmware, reducing CPU load and improving BLE connection scalability in dense deployments. |
Applications
| Automotive Digital Key | Industrial Wireless Sensor Node |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Smartphone-based vehicle unlock and personalization using BLE proximity detection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone BLE SoC managing secure pairing, encrypted key exchange, and low-latency RF response with sub-100 ms wake-from-VLLS0 latency. Use Value: Eliminates dedicated key fob hardware; leverages MKW38A512VFT4's AEC-Q100 qualification and –105 dBm LR sensitivity for reliable in-car detection through metal doors. |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity monitoring in HVAC ducts or factory machinery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Autonomous sensor hub collecting ADC data, executing local thresholds, and transmitting alerts via BLE to gateway or cloud edge device. Use Value: MKW38A512VFT4's 266.6 nA VLLS0 mode and integrated DC-DC enable >7-year battery life; FlexRAM supports wear-leveling for logging without external EEPROM. |
| Vehicle Diagnostic Gateway | Smart Building Access Control |
|
Use Scenario: In-vehicle bridge translating OBD-II/CAN FD messages to BLE for mobile app diagnostics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role processor: FlexCAN master reading ECU data at 3.2 Mbit/s, then BLE peripheral broadcasting structured diagnostics over BLE 5.0. Use Value: MKW38A512VFT4's native CAN FD + BLE coexistence avoids timing conflicts; dual LPUART enables simultaneous debug and LIN-based service mode entry. |
Use Scenario: BLE-enabled door lock controller receiving authenticated unlock commands from smartphones or wearables. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure wireless endpoint performing AES-128 decryption, MAC address validation, and motor driver control via GPIO/PWM. Use Value: On-chip TRNG and flash security prevent cloning; 105 °C rating ensures reliability in outdoor enclosures exposed to solar heating. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKW39A512VFT4 | No FlexCAN; second LPUART present; same flash/SRAM/FlexRAM; identical RF specs and AEC-Q100 Grade 2 rating. | Suitable for BLE-only automotive modules where CAN integration is handled externally or not required. | Select MKW39A512VFT4 when CAN FD is unnecessary and cost reduction via elimination of CAN PHY components is prioritized. |
| MKW38Z512VFT4 | Identical silicon functionality but Industrial qualification (–40 to 105 °C, non-AEC-Q100); same package and pinout. | Targeted at industrial gateways or medical telemetry where automotive stress testing is not mandated. | Choose MKW38Z512VFT4 for non-automotive applications needing identical feature set without AEC-Q100 documentation overhead. |
Compared with MKW38A512VFT4, MKW39A512VFT4 removes FlexCAN but retains dual LPUART - making it optimal for pure BLE gateway roles, while MKW38Z512VFT4 offers identical capability with industrial qualification, simplifying compliance for non-automotive OEMs.
Availability
MKW38A512VFT4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive digital key systems, industrial wireless sensor networks, and vehicle diagnostic gateways requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and AEC-Q100-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for MKW38A512VFT4 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets, with deep expertise in wireless MCUs and automotive-grade silicon.
The MKW38 series belongs to NXP's Kinetis KW family of ultra-low-power Bluetooth LE 5.0 microcontrollers, designed specifically for automotive-grade wireless edge nodes requiring secure, long-range, and CAN-integrated connectivity.
FAQ
What is the maximum CAN FD baudrate supported by MKW38A512VFT4?
MKW38A512VFT4 supports CAN FD up to 3.2 Mbit/s baudrate, as specified in the official NXP KW39/38/37 Data Sheet Rev. 7. This enables high-throughput communication with modern ECUs while maintaining backward compatibility with classical CAN 2.0B. The FlexCAN module implements full CAN FD protocol handling in hardware, including flexible data length and bit rate switching - all without CPU intervention. MKW38A512VFT4 achieves this performance within its AEC-Q100 Grade 2 operating range.
Does MKW38A512VFT4 include hardware security features for BLE Secure Connections?
Yes, MKW38A512VFT4 includes AES-128 hardware acceleration and a True Random Number Generator (TRNG), both explicitly required for BLE Secure Connections pairing. These modules are integrated into the LTC (LP Trusted Cryptography) and TRNG peripherals, enabling fast, side-channel-resistant key generation and encryption. The device also provides 80-bit unique chip ID and 40-bit MAC sub-address for secure device identity binding - all confirmed in the Security Features section of the MKW39/38/37 Data Sheet.
What is the lowest power consumption mode of MKW38A512VFT4, and what functions remain active?
MKW38A512VFT4 achieves 266.6 nA in Very-Low-Leakage Stop (VLLS0) mode - its deepest low-power state. In VLLS0, the Arm Cortex-M0+ core, flash, SRAM, and most peripherals are powered down, but the RTC, certain GPIOs configured for wake-up, and the LPTMR remain functional. This mode supports wake-up via RF activity (BLE advertising scan), external pin interrupt, or RTC alarm - enabling multi-year battery life in intermittent sensing applications. MKW38A512VFT4 maintains this spec across its full –40 to 105 °C automotive temperature range.
Can MKW38A512VFT4 operate from a single CR2032 coin cell?
Yes, MKW38A512VFT4 can operate from a single CR2032 coin cell (nominal 3.0 V) using its integrated DC-DC buck converter. In buck mode at 3.6 V supply, typical receive current is 6.3 mA and transmit current is 5.7 mA - well within CR2032 pulse capability. Combined with VLLS0 mode (266.6 nA), duty-cycled BLE advertising (e.g., 100 ms every 10 s), and efficient flash execution, MKW38A512VFT4 enables >5-year operation on one CR2032. This is validated in NXP's power consumption characterization data.
How many simultaneous Bluetooth LE connections does MKW38A512VFT4 support?
MKW38A512VFT4 supports up to 8 simultaneous Bluetooth LE hardware connections in any master/slave combination, as stated in the Radio Features section of the MKW39/38/37 Data Sheet. This capability is implemented in the MDM (Modem) subsystem and includes full hardware offload for connection management, encryption, and packet handling - freeing the Cortex-M0+ core for application tasks. All BLE 5.0 optional features (2M PHY, Long Range, Advertising Extensions) are concurrently supported across these connections.
MKW38A512VFT4R Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Series:
- Kinetis KW3
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- -
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-M0+
- Core Size:
- 32-Bit
- Speed:
- 48MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, LINbus, SPI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, LVD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- -
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- 8K x 8
- RAM Size:
- 64K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.71V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- -
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount, Wettable Flank
- Supplier Device Package:
MKW38A512VFT4R FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MKW38A512VFT4R through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MKW38A512VFT4R 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 MKW38A512VFT4R reliable?
The price and inventory of MKW38A512VFT4R are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MKW38A512VFT4R is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MKW38A512VFT4R?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MKW38A512VFT4R transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MKW38A512VFT4R?
MKW38A512VFT4R orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MKW38A512VFT4R 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 MKW38A512VFT4R?
For technical support, including MKW38A512VFT4R datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MKW38A512VFT4R requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MKW38A512VFT4R is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MKW38A512VFT4R 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 MKW38A512VFT4R meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MKW38A512VFT4R?
All MKW38A512VFT4R units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MKW38A512VFT4R, 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 MKW38A512VFT4R part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MKW38A512VFT4R:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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