NXP Semiconductors NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ

Overview

NCF2960VHN/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, and 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 automotive key fobs.

For engineers reviewing the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ datasheet, NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ pinout, NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ application, or NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ equivalent, key selection considerations include UHF band support, transponder protocol compatibility (HT3/HT-AES/HT-Pro2), HVQFN24 wettable-flank package constraints, and integrated temperature sensor + PRN generator for secure rolling-code generation.

Technical Context

The NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ implements NXP's third-generation Micro RISC Kernel (MRK III) with single-cycle instruction execution and Harvard architecture. Its on-chip fractional-N PLL compensates for ±20 ppm crystal tolerance, enabling stable UHF output across 315/434/868/915 MHz bands using only a 27.6 MHz reference crystal and loop antenna matching network.

Transponder operation is LF-field powered and independent of the main battery supply, ensuring full functionality even at low battery voltage. The hardened calculation unit performs 96-bit HT3 and 128-bit AES cryptographic operations in hardware, while the 1 KB RAM and 2 KB EEPROM support secure state storage and access-controlled data retention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

HVQFN24 (4 × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with wettable flanks - optimized for compact automotive key fob PCBs and automated optical inspection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar remote keyless entry and transponder emulation applications.

Compared with NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ, the NCF29A1HVHN/T0B04AJ offers stronger cryptography and broader thermal qualification but requires minor firmware adaptation; the SLB9670V2 shifts security and RF functions off-chip, increasing system latency and component count - making it unsuitable as a drop-in alternative.

Availability

NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive remote keyless entry, vehicle immobilizer integration, and secure rolling-code generation requiring stable component supply over extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for NCF2960VHN/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 series targets automotive Combo-Key systems, combining RKE, immobilizer, and cryptographic security in a single chip to reduce size, cost, and supply chain complexity for Tier-1 key fob manufacturers.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ in automotive key fobs?

The NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ serves as a single-chip Combo-Key solution integrating remote keyless entry (RKE) transmission, vehicle immobilizer transponder emulation, and secure cryptographic processing. It enables both battery-powered UHF communication and LF-field-powered authentication - allowing full key fob functionality even with a depleted battery. Its 16-bit MRK III core and hardware AES/HT3 engines ensure deterministic, tamper-resistant code generation required by automotive OEMs.

Does the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ support multiple UHF frequency bands?

Yes, the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ supports four UHF bands: 315 MHz, 434 MHz, 868 MHz, and 915 MHz. Its on-chip fractional-N PLL compensates for crystal tolerance, enabling stable multi-band operation using only a single 27.6 MHz reference crystal and external loop antenna matching components. Frequency-hopping capability across these bands enhances resistance to RF jamming in real-world vehicle access scenarios.

How does the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ handle cryptographic operations for rolling codes?

The NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ includes a dedicated hardware calculation unit supporting HT3 (96-bit) and AES (128-bit) algorithms - executing cryptographic operations without software intervention. This eliminates timing side-channel vulnerabilities and ensures sub-15 ms code generation. The device also integrates a pseudo-random number generator and 2 KB ultra-low-power EEPROM to securely store counters and keys across power cycles - critical for compliance with OEM rolling-code specifications.

What package type is used for the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ, and why is it significant?

The NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ uses an HVQFN24 package measuring 4 × 4 mm with wettable flanks. This compact, leadless package minimizes PCB area for space-constrained key fobs while enabling optical solder-joint inspection during SMT assembly - eliminating the need for X-ray verification. The wettable flanks improve solder fillet visibility and process yield in high-volume automotive manufacturing, directly supporting PPAP requirements.

Can the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ operate without a battery for immobilizer functions?

Yes - the transponder circuitry inside the NCF2960VHN/T0B04AJ is powered solely by the LF magnetic field generated by the vehicle's reader coil, independent of the main lithium cell. This allows full immobilizer authentication (e.g., HT-Pro2 challenge-response) even when the battery is fully discharged. The RKE transmitter remains active only when battery voltage is within 2.1–3.6 V, preserving separation between security-critical passive and active modes.