NXP Semiconductors PN5120A0ET/C2EL
- Part No.:
- PN5120A0ET/C2EL
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RFID, RF Access, Monitoring ICs
- Package:
- 64-TFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
PN5120A0ET/C2EL.pdf
- Description:
- IC RFID RDR/TRAN 13.56MZ 64TFBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
PN5120A0ET/C2EL from NXP Semiconductors is a full NFC Forum-compliant contactless frontend IC operating at 13.56 MHz, supporting Reader/Writer, Card Operation, and NFCIP-1 modes. It integrates analog modulation/demodulation, CRC coprocessing, and RF level detection for ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE, ISO/IEC 14443B, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1 protocols. Its TFBGA64 package enables compact NFC reader designs in mobile payment terminals and access control systems.
For engineers reviewing the PN5120A0ET/C2EL datasheet, PN5120A0ET/C2EL pinout, PN5120A0ET/C2EL application, or PN5120A0ET/C2EL equivalent, key selection considerations include its 2.5–3.6 V supply range, 424 kbit/s max transfer speed across all supported protocols, integrated 64-byte FIFO buffer, programmable timer, and support for SPI (up to 10 Mbit/s), I²C (up to 3.4 MBd), UART, and parallel host interfaces.
Technical Context
The PN5120A0ET/C2EL implements a fully integrated analog front-end with dual transmitter outputs (TX1/TX2), differential receiver input (RX), internal oscillator for 27.12 MHz crystal, and RF level/data mode detectors. Its digital baseband handles ISO/IEC 14443A framing, FeliCa framing with automatic preamble/Sync generation, and NFCIP-1 layer 2 protocol processing - all without external microcontroller intervention for low-level signal handling.
It supports four distinct operational modes via register configuration: ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE Reader/Writer (with MIFARE Classic encryption), ISO/IEC 14443B Reader/Writer, Card Operation (FeliCa or ISO/IEC 14443A), and NFCIP-1 (active/passive, up to 424 kbit/s). The S2C interface enables secure IC coupling, while programmable I/O pins and interrupt logic simplify host integration.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency | 13.56 MHz carrier - enables interoperability with global NFC, RFID, and contactless smart card standards. |
| Max Data Rate | 424 kbit/s in all modes (ISO/IEC 14443A, FeliCa, NFCIP-1) - supports high-speed transaction processing in payment and transit applications. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 3.6 V (VDDA/VDDD) - compatible with modern battery-powered and low-voltage embedded systems. |
| FIFO Buffer Size | 64-byte send/receive buffer - reduces host CPU overhead and enables burst-mode data transfers without packet fragmentation. |
| Host Interfaces | SPI (≤10 Mbit/s), I²C (≤3.4 MBd), UART (≤1.23 MBd), 8-bit parallel - provides flexible connectivity to MCUs, SoCs, and legacy controllers. |
| Power-Down Current | ≤10 µA (soft), ≤5 µA (hard) at 3 V - extends battery life in portable NFC readers and wearables. |
| Operating Temperature | −30 °C to +85 °C - qualified for industrial and consumer environments, excluding automotive-grade variants. |
Pinout & Package
PN5120A0ET/C2EL uses a 64-ball TFBGA package (SOT1336-1), body size 5.0 × 5.0 × 0.65 mm, 0.4 mm ball pitch. This fine-pitch BGA enables high-density PCB layouts in space-constrained NFC modules and handheld devices.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| TX1 / TX2 | RF Transmitter Outputs | Differential 13.56 MHz carrier outputs - drive antenna matching network directly; require external LC tuning for optimal field strength and efficiency. |
| RX | RF Receiver Input | Differential analog input for demodulated card responses - connects to antenna via matching network; internal amplifier and demodulator process signal. |
| IRQ | Interrupt Request Output | Active-low open-drain signal - alerts host MCU of frame completion, error, or RF field detection without polling. |
| NRSTPD | Reset & Power-Down Control | Active-low input - initiates hardware reset or enters ultra-low-power mode; eliminates need for external reset supervisor. |
| OSCIN / OSCOUT | Crystal Oscillator Interface | Connects to 27.12 MHz fundamental-mode quartz crystal - provides precise clock source for RF timing and digital baseband synchronization. |
| SVDD | S2C Interface Power | Independent 1.6–3.6 V supply - powers secure IC communication path, enabling direct connection to smart card ICs without level-shifting. |
| D1–D7, A0–A1, ALE | Parallel Host Interface Signals | Support 8-bit address/data multiplexing - used for I²C address configuration or test I/O when serial interfaces are active. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated RF Level Detector | Enables automatic RF field presence detection - eliminates need for external comparator circuitry in wake-on-field implementations. |
| On-chip CRC Coprocessor | Hardware-accelerated CRC-16 per ISO/IEC 14443-3 and FeliCa specs - offloads checksum calculation from host MCU and ensures deterministic timing. |
| Programmable Data Mode Detector | Auto-identifies MIFARE/FeliCa/NFCIP-1 modulation schemes - allows single firmware image to handle multiple card types without manual mode switching. |
| Buffered Antenna Drivers | High-current TX1/TX2 outputs support direct antenna connection - reduces external component count and improves EMI robustness in compact designs. |
| Internal Self-Test Capability | Verifies analog/digital functionality during power-up - enhances reliability in safety-critical access control and payment terminals. |
Applications
| Mobile Payment Terminal | Access Control Reader |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Contactless EMV payment processing in handheld POS devices with battery operation and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NFC frontend handling physical layer modulation, demodulation, and protocol framing for ISO/IEC 14443A and NFCIP-1 transactions. Use Value: Enables 424 kbit/s transaction speeds and 50 mm read range with minimal external components, reducing bill-of-materials and PCB area. |
Use Scenario: Secure door entry system using MIFARE DESFire or FeliCa credentials in office buildings and campuses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reader/writer controller managing anti-collision, authentication, and encrypted data exchange with contactless smart cards. Use Value: Integrated MIFARE Classic encryption and ISO/IEC 14443B support allow multi-standard credential compatibility without firmware changes. |
| Public Transit Validator | Industrial Asset Tag Reader |
Use Scenario: High-throughput fare validation at subway gates with fast card presentation and low-latency response. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed FeliCa reader supporting 424 kbit/s bidirectional communication for rapid ticket balance updates. Use Value: Automatic FeliCa preamble/Sync generation and CRC insertion reduce host processing load, enabling sub-100 ms transaction times. |
Use Scenario: Ruggedized handheld reader for maintenance technicians scanning NFC-enabled equipment tags in factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust NFCIP-1 initiator supporting passive and active modes for reliable tag interrogation under variable field conditions. Use Value: RF level detector and programmable timer enable adaptive field strength control and power-gating to extend battery life beyond 8 hours. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NFC frontend applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PN7150B0HN/C2 | Integrated NFC controller + firmware stack; supports Android HCE; lower power consumption (3.5 µA deep sleep); TFBGA40 package. | Targeted at Android-based mobile accessories and IoT edge devices requiring certified NFC stack out-of-box. | Select PN7150B0HN/C2 when full software stack integration, Android compatibility, and lower standby current are prioritized over maximum flexibility in custom protocol implementation. |
| CLRC66302HN/C2 | Enhanced analog front-end with higher TX output (±100 mA), extended temperature range (−40 °C to +105 °C), and additional GPIOs; HVQFN48 package. | Designed for industrial readers, kiosks, and automotive infotainment where extended thermal margin and higher RF output are required. | Select CLRC66302HN/C2 when operating in harsh environments or driving large antennas demanding >100 mA peak current per TX line. |
Compared with PN7150B0HN/C2 and CLRC66302HN/C2, the PN5120A0ET/C2EL offers greater hardware configurability for custom NFC protocol stacks and broader legacy standard support (e.g., full ISO/IEC 14443B), but requires more host-side firmware development and lacks built-in secure element management.
Availability
PN5120A0ET/C2EL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile payment terminals, access control readers, public transit validators, and industrial asset tag readers requiring stable component supply and long-term design-in support.
Supply support for PN5120A0ET/C2EL 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, with core expertise in RFID, NFC, automotive, and secure identification technologies.
The PN512 product line delivers highly integrated NFC frontends optimized for cost-sensitive, high-volume contactless reader applications across payment, transit, and access control markets - emphasizing analog integration, protocol flexibility, and host interface versatility.
FAQ
What communication protocols does the PN5120A0ET/C2EL support?
The PN5120A0ET/C2EL supports ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE (including MIFARE Classic encryption), ISO/IEC 14443B, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1 (Ecma-340/ISO/IEC 18092) protocols. It operates in Reader/Writer, Card Operation, and NFCIP-1 modes, with full hardware acceleration for framing, CRC, and parity generation per standard requirements. Each mode is configured via internal registers and validated in the official NXP datasheet Rev. 5.2.
Does the PN5120A0ET/C2EL include an integrated crystal oscillator?
Yes, the PN5120A0ET/C2EL includes an internal oscillator circuit that accepts a 27.12 MHz fundamental-mode quartz crystal connected between OSCIN and OSCOUT pins. This oscillator provides the precise timing reference for both RF carrier generation and digital baseband operations. External clock input at 27.12 MHz is also supported on OSCIN, bypassing the crystal.
What is the maximum operating distance achievable with the PN5120A0ET/C2EL?
The PN5120A0ET/C2EL achieves typical operating distances up to 50 mm in Reader/Writer and NFCIP-1 modes, and up to 100 mm in ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE or FeliCa Card Operation mode - all dependent on antenna size, tuning, and external field strength. These values are measured under standard conditions per NXP's datasheet Rev. 5.2 and assume optimized matching network design.
Can the PN5120A0ET/C2EL operate with a 1.8 V host interface voltage?
No - the PN5120A0ET/C2EL requires VDDD and VDDA supplies between 2.5 V and 3.6 V. While some I/O pins (e.g., D1–D7, ALE) may be used for I²C address configuration or test signals, they are not 1.8 V tolerant. Direct interfacing with 1.8 V logic requires level-shifting circuitry, as confirmed by the absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics in the official datasheet.
Is the PN5120A0ET/C2EL pin-compatible with other PN512 variants like PN5120A0HN/C2?
No - the PN5120A0ET/C2EL uses a 64-ball TFBGA package (SOT1336-1), whereas PN5120A0HN/C2 uses a 40-pin HVQFN package (SOT618-1). Pin count, layout, and signal mapping differ significantly; no mechanical or electrical pin-to-pin compatibility exists. Migration requires full PCB redesign and firmware adaptation due to differing pin assignments and host interface configurations.
PN5120A0ET/C2EL Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- MIFARE®
- Package/Case:
- 64-TFBGA
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- RFID Reader/Transponder
- Frequency:
- 13.56MHz
- Standards:
- FeliCa, ISO 14443, MIFARE, NFC
- Interface:
- I2C, SPI, UART
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 90°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-TFBGA (5.5x5.5)
PN5120A0ET/C2EL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PN5120A0ET/C2EL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PN5120A0ET/C2EL 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 PN5120A0ET/C2EL reliable?
The price and inventory of PN5120A0ET/C2EL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PN5120A0ET/C2EL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PN5120A0ET/C2EL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PN5120A0ET/C2EL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PN5120A0ET/C2EL?
PN5120A0ET/C2EL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PN5120A0ET/C2EL 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 PN5120A0ET/C2EL?
For technical support, including PN5120A0ET/C2EL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PN5120A0ET/C2EL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PN5120A0ET/C2EL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PN5120A0ET/C2EL 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 PN5120A0ET/C2EL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PN5120A0ET/C2EL?
All PN5120A0ET/C2EL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PN5120A0ET/C2EL, 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 PN5120A0ET/C2EL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PN5120A0ET/C2EL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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