NXP Semiconductors NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ

Overview

NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ from NXP Semiconductors is a second-generation combo-key IC integrating a 16-bit RISC microcontroller, UHF transmitter (315/434/868/915 MHz), and transponder emulator for HT3/HT-AES/HT-Pro2 protocols. It operates from a single lithium cell (2.1–3.6 V), includes 16 KB user EROM, 2 KB ultra-low-power EEPROM, and supports frequency-hopping in RF-jammed environments for automotive remote keyless entry.

For engineers reviewing the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ datasheet, NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ pinout, NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ application, or NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ equivalent, key selection considerations include UHF band support, transponder protocol compatibility (HT3/AES/HT-Pro2), HVQFN24 wettable-flank package constraints, on-chip temperature sensor for battery management, and fractional-N PLL for crystal tolerance compensation.

Technical Context

The NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ implements NXP's third-generation Micro RISC Kernel (MRK III) with single-cycle instruction execution and Harvard architecture. Its on-chip UHF transmitter uses a 27.6 MHz reference crystal and loop antenna matching to operate across four ISM bands without external synthesizers.

A dedicated hardware calculation unit performs 96-bit HT3 and 128-bit AES cryptographic operations, while the transponder circuitry remains powered by LF field coupling-enabling full functionality even at low battery voltage. The device integrates a pseudo-random number generator and temperature sensor for secure, adaptive key fob operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

HVQFN24 (4 × 4 mm) package with wettable flanks for automated optical inspection; 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar combo-key transponder applications.

Compared with NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ, the NCF29A1 offers enhanced LF capability for advanced authentication but increases system complexity, while PCF7962/7963 lacks UHF integration entirely-requiring additional ICs, larger PCB area, and higher assembly cost for combo-key functionality.

Availability

NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive key fobs, immobilizer-combo systems, and secure remote keyless entry modules requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and AEC-Q200-aligned sourcing.

Supply support for NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ 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 applications.

The NCF2960 product line delivers highly integrated, ultra-low-power combo-key ICs designed specifically for next-generation automotive key fobs that unify RKE and immobilizer functions in minimal footprint.

FAQ

What UHF frequency bands does the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ support?

The NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ supports four ISM bands: 315 MHz, 434 MHz, 868 MHz, and 915 MHz. Its on-chip UHF transmitter uses a 27.6 MHz crystal and fractional-N PLL to achieve precise channel selection and frequency hopping across these bands without external synthesizers. This multi-band capability ensures reliable operation in globally deployed vehicle access systems.

Does the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ require an external crystal?

Yes-the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ requires an external 27.6 MHz fundamental-mode crystal connected to XTAL_IN and XTAL_OUT pins. This crystal serves as the reference for the on-chip fractional-N PLL, which generates stable UHF carrier frequencies across all supported bands. No additional clock sources or oscillators are needed for core or RF operation.

How does the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ handle low-battery operation in transponder mode?

The NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ's transponder circuitry is powered solely by the 125 kHz LF field from the vehicle reader-making it fully functional even when the coin-cell battery is depleted. Only the UHF transmitter and MCU require battery power. This dual-power architecture ensures immobilizer authentication remains operational regardless of battery state.

What memory types are integrated into the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ?

The NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ integrates three memory types: 16 KB of Flash-like EROM for application code (in-circuit programmable), 2 KB of ultra-low-power serial EEPROM for secure key storage and rolling codes (retention current <1 µA), and 1 KB of RAM for runtime variables. All are accessible via the on-chip bus without external interfaces.

Is the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ pin-compatible with earlier NXP combo-key ICs?

No-the NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ uses a unique HVQFN24 (4 × 4 mm) pinout optimized for its integrated UHF transmitter and transponder functions. It is not pin-compatible with legacy devices like PCF7962 or NCF29A1. Layout redesign and signal routing updates are required when migrating to NCF2960MHN/T0B04AJ from prior generations.