NXP Semiconductors PN5120A0ET/C2QL
- Part No.:
- PN5120A0ET/C2QL
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RFID, RF Access, Monitoring ICs
- Package:
- 64-TFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
PN5120A0ET/C2QL.pdf
- Description:
- IC RFID RDR/TRAN 13.56MZ 64TFBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,440
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Product details
Overview
PN5120A0ET/C2QL from NXP Semiconductors is a full NFC Forum-compliant 13.56 MHz NFC frontend IC supporting Reader/Writer, Card Operation, and NFCIP-1 modes. It integrates analog modulation/demodulation, CRC coprocessing, RF level detection, and supports ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE, ISO/IEC 14443B, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1 protocols - enabling secure contactless transactions in mobile payment terminals and access control readers.
For engineers reviewing the PN5120A0ET/C2QL datasheet, PN5120A0ET/C2QL pinout, PN5120A0ET/C2QL application, or PN5120A0ET/C2QL equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, TFBGA64 package mapping, host interface options (SPI/I²C/UART), operating distance specs (up to 100 mm in card mode), and validated alternative parts for NFC system design.
Technical Context
The PN5120A0ET/C2QL implements a fully integrated analog front-end with buffered TX1/TX2 outputs driving 13.56 MHz antennas directly, an RF-level detector for field presence sensing, and dual-channel (I/Q) demodulation architecture optimized for ASK, load-modulation, and Manchester-coded signals across all supported protocols. Its digital baseband handles ISO/IEC 14443A framing, FeliCa sync/preamble insertion, and NFCIP-1 active/passive mode switching.
It features a 64-byte FIFO buffer, programmable timer, hard/soft power-down modes (≤10 µA), and internal oscillator support for 27.12 MHz crystal or external clock. Host communication is managed via SPI (up to 10 Mbit/s), I²C (Fast/High-speed modes), UART (RS232-level), or parallel interface - though the TFBGA64 variant omits the 8-bit parallel option per datasheet Section 1.1.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency | 13.56 MHz carrier - enables interoperability with global NFC standards including ISO/IEC 14443, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 3.6 V (VDDA/VDDD) - compatible with standard 3.3 V embedded systems without level-shifting. |
| Max Data Rate | 424 kbit/s in all modes (ISO14443A, FeliCa, NFCIP-1) - supports high-throughput applications like transit ticketing and secure credential exchange. |
| Operating Distance | Up to 100 mm in Card Operation mode (ISO14443A/FeliCa) - enables robust coupling with passive tags using optimized antenna design. |
| FIFO Depth | 64 bytes - reduces host CPU overhead by buffering complete frames for ISO14443A, FeliCa, or NFCIP-1 packets. |
| Power-Down Current | ≤10 µA (soft power-down with RF detector active) - extends battery life in portable NFC readers and wearables. |
| Package | TFBGA64 (SOT1336-1), 5.0 × 5.0 × 0.65 mm - compact footprint suitable for space-constrained mobile and IoT designs. |
Pinout & Package
PN5120A0ET/C2QL uses a 64-ball Thin Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array (TFBGA64) package per SOT1336-1, with 0.4 mm ball pitch and 5.0 × 5.0 mm body size. Pin functions are defined per Table 5 of the official datasheet Rev. 5.2.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| TX1 / TX2 | RF Transmitter Outputs | Drive 13.56 MHz carrier directly to antenna; require external matching network for 40 Ω impedance per datasheet Table 1. |
| RX | RF Receiver Input | Accepts demodulated signal from antenna; internal I/Q demodulator processes load-modulated responses from cards/targets. |
| IRQ | Interrupt Request Output | Signals frame completion, error, or RF field detection - enables low-latency host response without polling. |
| OSCIN / OSCOUT | Crystal Oscillator Interface | Supports 27.12 MHz fundamental-mode crystal or external clock source for precise RF timing. |
| SIGIN / SIGOUT | Serial Host Interface | Enable UART-style host communication; used when SPI/I²C not selected - simplifies firmware integration. |
| NRSTPD | Reset & Power-Down Control | Active-low pin initiating hard reset or entering ultra-low-power state; critical for system-level power management. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated RF Level Detector | Enables automatic RF field presence detection without host polling - reduces latency and CPU load in reader wake-up sequences. |
| MIFARE Classic Crypto-1 Licensing | Embedded IP allows secure authentication with legacy MIFARE Classic cards without external crypto co-processor. |
| Programmable Data Mode Detector | Automatically identifies incoming MIFARE, FeliCa, or NFCIP-1 modulation - eliminates manual protocol selection in multi-standard readers. |
| S2C Interface Support | Provides dedicated digital path to connect secure elements (e.g., smart card ICs), enabling certified payment and ID applications. |
| CRC Coprocessor | Hardware-accelerated CRC-16 calculation per ISO/IEC 14443-3 and FeliCa standards - ensures protocol compliance and offloads host MCU. |
Applications
| Mobile Payment Terminal | Access Control Reader |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Contactless transaction initiation at point-of-sale using EMVCo-certified payment apps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NFC frontend handling RF modulation/demodulation, protocol framing, and secure element handoff via S2C interface. Use Value: Enables full EMVCo Level 1 compliance with ≤100 mm read range and 424 kbit/s throughput for fast card emulation. |
Use Scenario: Secure door entry via NFC-enabled credentials (MIFARE DESFire, FeliCa Suica). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reader/writer mode IC managing ISO/IEC 14443A/B and FeliCa anticollision, authentication, and data exchange. Use Value: Supports multi-protocol credential reading with <5 µA power-down current for battery-powered lock modules. |
| Smart Wearable Authenticator | Industrial Asset Tag Reader |
Use Scenario: Tap-to-authenticate identity on fitness trackers or smart rings using NFC-based PKI tokens. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Card Operation mode IC emulating ISO/IEC 14443A-compliant secure element with load modulation. Use Value: Achieves up to 100 mm operating distance in card mode - extends usability beyond direct tap scenarios. |
Use Scenario: Rugged handheld scanner reading maintenance tags on factory equipment using FeliCa or MIFARE. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reader/writer IC interfacing via SPI to ARM Cortex-M host, managing antenna tuning and error recovery. Use Value: Integrated RF level detector and programmable timer enable reliable tag acquisition in electrically noisy industrial environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NFC frontend applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PN7150B0HN/C1 | Integrated NFC controller + firmware stack; single-chip solution with built-in NCI protocol handler - no external host required for basic operation. | Targeted at cost-sensitive consumer devices where minimal host processing is available; lacks S2C interface and MIFARE Classic licensing. | Select PN7150B0HN/C1 when reducing BOM count and firmware development effort outweighs need for MIFARE Classic or secure element integration. |
| CLRC66302HN | Enhanced analog front-end with higher TX output drive (±150 mA vs. ±100 mA), extended temperature range (−40 °C to +105 °C), and AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualification. | Designed for automotive infotainment and telematics; supports same protocols but adds CAN/LIN interface options and enhanced ESD protection. | Choose CLRC66302HN for automotive-grade reliability and higher RF output - especially where ambient temperature exceeds +85 °C. |
Compared with PN5120A0ET/C2QL, PN7150B0HN/C1 reduces host dependency but sacrifices MIFARE Classic support and S2C capability, while CLRC66302HN offers automotive qualification and higher RF drive at the cost of larger HVQFN48 packaging and no TFBGA64 option.
Availability
PN5120A0ET/C2QL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile payment terminals, access control readers, smart wearable authenticators, and industrial asset tag readers requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for PN5120A0ET/C2QL 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 mobile markets, with over 50 years of innovation in RF and smart card technologies.
PN5120A0ET/C2QL belongs to NXP's PN512 NFC frontend product line, engineered for high-integration, multi-protocol contactless communication in resource-constrained embedded systems requiring NFC Forum certification.
FAQ
What communication interfaces does PN5120A0ET/C2QL support?
PN5120A0ET/C2QL supports SPI (up to 10 Mbit/s), I²C (Fast mode up to 400 kBd, High-speed mode up to 3400 kBd), serial UART (RS232-level, up to 1228.8 kBd), and SIGIN/SIGOUT serial interface. The TFBGA64 package does not include the 8-bit parallel interface, which is only available in HVQFN40 variants per datasheet Section 1.1.
Does PN5120A0ET/C2QL include MIFARE Classic encryption support?
Yes, PN5120A0ET/C2QL includes licensed NXP MIFARE Classic Crypto-1 intellectual property, enabling hardware-accelerated authentication with MIFARE Classic 1K/4K cards in Reader/Writer mode - eliminating need for external crypto co-processors in compliant payment terminals.
What is the maximum operating distance achievable with PN5120A0ET/C2QL?
PN5120A0ET/C2QL achieves up to 100 mm operating distance in Card Operation mode (ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE or FeliCa) and up to 50 mm in Reader/Writer or NFCIP-1 modes - dependent on antenna size, tuning, and external field strength per datasheet Section 2.
Is PN5120A0ET/C2QL qualified for automotive applications?
No, PN5120A0ET/C2QL is part of the version 2.0 family rated for −30 °C to +85 °C ambient temperature. For automotive use, NXP offers the industrial version PN512AA0HN1/C2 (HVQFN32) qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 3 (−40 °C to +90 °C), which is explicitly documented in Section 1.1 of the datasheet.
What host processor resources does PN5120A0ET/C2QL offload?
PN5120A0ET/C2QL offloads ISO/IEC 14443A framing, FeliCa preamble/sync insertion, NFCIP-1 active/passive mode switching, CRC-16 computation, parity generation, and RF level detection - significantly reducing host MCU firmware complexity and real-time interrupt handling requirements.
PN5120A0ET/C2QL 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/C2QL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PN5120A0ET/C2QL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PN5120A0ET/C2QL 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/C2QL reliable?
The price and inventory of PN5120A0ET/C2QL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PN5120A0ET/C2QL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PN5120A0ET/C2QL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PN5120A0ET/C2QL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PN5120A0ET/C2QL?
PN5120A0ET/C2QL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PN5120A0ET/C2QL 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/C2QL?
For technical support, including PN5120A0ET/C2QL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PN5120A0ET/C2QL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PN5120A0ET/C2QL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PN5120A0ET/C2QL 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/C2QL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PN5120A0ET/C2QL?
All PN5120A0ET/C2QL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PN5120A0ET/C2QL, 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/C2QL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PN5120A0ET/C2QL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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