NXP Semiconductors PN5120A0HN/C1,557
- Part No.:
- PN5120A0HN/C1,557
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- RFID, RF Access, Monitoring ICs
- Package:
- 40-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
PN5120A0HN/C1,557.pdf
- Description:
- IC RFID RDR/TRAN 13.56MZ 40HVQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 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 payment terminals and access control readers.
For engineers reviewing the PN5120A0HN/C1,557 datasheet, PN5120A0HN/C1,557 pinout, PN5120A0HN/C1,557 application, or PN5120A0HN/C1,557 equivalent, this device delivers verified 424 kbit/s transfer speeds across all three operating modes, integrated S2C interface for secure IC coupling, and HVQFN40 packaging with 40-pin layout optimized for compact antenna integration and low external component count.
Technical Context
The PN5120A0HN/C1,557 implements a fully integrated analog front-end with dual transmitter outputs (TX1/TX2), differential receiver input (RX), and internal oscillator supporting 27.12 MHz crystal or external clock. Its digital baseband handles ISO/IEC 14443A framing, FeliCa sync/preamble generation, and NFCIP-1 active/passive mode switching without host intervention.
It features a 64-byte FIFO buffer, programmable timer, hard/soft power-down modes (≤10 µA), and four host interfaces - SPI (up to 10 Mbit/s), I²C (Fast/High-speed modes), UART (RS232-level), and 8-bit parallel - with pin multiplexing managed via register configuration and ALE/NRD/NWR strobes.
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. |
| Max Data Rate | 424 kbit/s in all modes - supports high-throughput applications like fast transit ticketing and secure credential exchange. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 3.6 V (VDDA/VDDD) - compatible with standard 3.3 V system rails and battery-powered designs. |
| Power-Down Current | ≤10 µA (soft power-down, RF detector active) - extends battery life in portable NFC readers and wearables. |
| FIFO Depth | 64 bytes - buffers full command/response frames for ISO/IEC 14443A, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1 without host CPU overhead. |
| Host Interfaces | SPI, I²C, UART, 8-bit parallel - provides flexible MCU integration options across embedded, industrial, and consumer platforms. |
| Operating Temperature | −30 °C to +85 °C - qualified for commercial and industrial environments including point-of-sale terminals and smart locks. |
Pinout & Package
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 is housed in a plastic thermal enhanced very thin quad flat no-lead (HVQFN40) package measuring 6 mm × 6 mm × 0.85 mm (SOT618-1), with wettable flank leads for automated optical inspection and robust solder joint reliability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| TX1, TX2 | RF Transmitter Outputs | Differential 13.56 MHz carrier outputs - drive antenna matching network directly; support complementary driver configuration for up to 100 mA peak current. |
| RX | RF Receiver Input | Differential analog input for demodulated card responses - includes integrated RF level detector and data mode detector for automatic protocol recognition. |
| IRQ | Interrupt Request Output | Active-low signal indicating FIFO status, error conditions, or command completion - enables event-driven host firmware architecture. |
| NCS, NRD, NWR, ALE | Parallel Interface Control | Chip select, read/write strobes, and address latch enable - required only when using 8-bit parallel host interface; unused for SPI/I²C/UART. |
| D0–D7 | Bidirectional Data Bus | 8-bit parallel data path - transfers commands, status, and frame payloads; repurposed as I²C address pins or test I/Os in serial interface configurations. |
| OSCIN / OSCOUT | Crystal Oscillator Interface | Connects to 27.12 MHz quartz crystal - provides precise timing reference for RF carrier generation and digital baseband synchronization. |
| SVDD | S2C Power Supply | Dedicated 2.5–3.6 V supply for Secure IC interface - powers external secure element connected via S2C bus for cryptographic operations. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated RF Level Detector | Enables automatic field presence detection and adaptive sensitivity control - eliminates need for external RSSI circuitry in reader designs. |
| MIFARE Classic Crypto-1 Licensing | Embedded IP allows native support of MIFARE Classic cards without external crypto accelerator - reduces BOM cost and firmware complexity. |
| Programmable Data Mode Detection | Automatically identifies ISO/IEC 14443A, FeliCa, or NFCIP-1 modulation on RX - accelerates protocol handshaking and minimizes host polling overhead. |
| Buffered Antenna Drivers | TX1/TX2 outputs deliver sufficient drive strength to match standard 40 Ω antennas - reduces external component count to <5 passive parts per antenna leg. |
| CRC Coprocessor | Hardware-accelerated CRC-16 calculation per ISO/IEC 14443-3 and FeliCa specs - offloads checksum computation from host MCU and ensures deterministic latency. |
Applications
| Payment Terminal Reader | Secure Access Control System |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Contactless EMV payment processing in countertop or mobile POS terminals requiring PCI PTS v6.0 compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NFC frontend handling analog RF transmission/reception, baseband framing, and secure channel setup with external secure element via S2C interface. Use Value: Enables certified 424 kbit/s transaction throughput with ≤50 mm read range using compact PCB antenna - meets speed and distance requirements for fast checkout. |
Use Scenario: Multi-technology door reader supporting MIFARE DESFire EV3, FeliCa Suica, and NFC Forum Tag Type 4 credentials. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol-agnostic NFC transceiver managing simultaneous ISO/IEC 14443A/B, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1 discovery and authentication sequences. Use Value: Single-chip support for regional credential formats eliminates need for multiple readers - reduces hardware footprint and certification effort across global deployments. |
| Industrial Asset Tagging Reader | Smart Lock Controller |
|
Use Scenario: Rugged handheld scanner for maintenance technicians reading NFC tags on machinery in factory environments with temperature extremes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power NFC frontend operating in Reader/Writer mode with soft power-down and wake-on-field capability. Use Value: 10 µA standby current and −30 °C to +85 °C operation ensure multi-shift battery life and reliability in uncontrolled ambient conditions. |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered electronic deadbolt supporting smartphone-based provisioning and guest access via NFC handover. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role NFC controller executing Card Operation mode to emulate NFC Forum Tag Type 4 while interfacing with BLE SoC for remote management. Use Value: 100 mm card emulation range enables reliable tap-to-unlock even with phone in pocket - validated with common smartphone models including iPhone and Galaxy series. |
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 | Successor IC with integrated firmware, lower power (3.5 µA deep sleep), and built-in NFC stack - lacks 8-bit parallel interface and S2C support. | Targeted at Android Things and Linux-based hosts requiring minimal driver development; not suitable for legacy MCU platforms needing raw register access. | Select PN7150B0HN/C1 for rapid time-to-market with certified NFC stack; retain PN5120A0HN/C1,557 for maximum hardware control and secure element integration. |
| ST25R3916B | Supports same protocols but adds ISO/IEC 15693 and proprietary 1-out-of-4 modulation; higher TX output (1.5 W) and extended −40 °C to +105 °C rating. | Preferred for automotive keyless entry and industrial RFID where extended temp range and multi-standard support are mandatory. | Choose ST25R3916B for harsh environment or multi-standard needs; PN5120A0HN/C1,557 remains optimal for cost-sensitive, high-volume NFC reader designs focused on ISO/FeliCa/NFCIP-1. |
Compared with PN7150B0HN/C1 and ST25R3916B, PN5120A0HN/C1,557 offers unique S2C interface support for secure IC coupling, full register-level control over analog parameters, and proven 10-billion-transaction field reliability - making it the preferred choice for certified payment terminals and access systems requiring deterministic behavior and long-term supply stability.
Availability
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for payment terminal design, secure access control systems, and industrial asset tagging readers requiring stable component supply and long lifecycle support.
Supply support for PN5120A0HN/C1,557 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, and secure authentication ICs used in billions of devices worldwide.
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 belongs to the PN512 family of NFC frontends designed specifically for high-reliability contactless reader applications in financial, transportation, and physical access markets - emphasizing protocol compliance, RF performance, and secure element interoperability.
FAQ
What communication protocols does PN5120A0HN/C1,557 support?
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 supports ISO/IEC 14443A/MIFARE, ISO/IEC 14443B, FeliCa, and NFCIP-1 protocols across Reader/Writer, Card Operation, and NFCIP-1 operating modes. It handles full physical layer modulation/demodulation and baseband framing for all supported standards, with hardware CRC and parity generation compliant to ISO/IEC 14443-3 and FeliCa specifications. The PN5120A0HN/C1,557 does not implement higher-layer stack functions - those reside in the host controller.
Does PN5120A0HN/C1,557 include MIFARE Classic encryption capability?
Yes, PN5120A0HN/C1,557 includes licensed NXP MIFARE Classic Crypto-1 intellectual property, enabling native support for MIFARE Classic 1K/4K cards in Reader/Writer mode. This embedded crypto engine performs authentication and encrypted data exchange without requiring external cryptographic hardware. The PN5120A0HN/C1,557 implements the full Crypto-1 algorithm in hardware, meeting EMVCo and Common Criteria requirements for secure payment terminals.
What is the maximum operating distance achievable with PN5120A0HN/C1,557?
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 achieves typical operating distances of up to 50 mm in Reader/Writer and NFCIP-1 modes, and approximately 100 mm in Card Operation mode - all dependent on antenna size, tuning, and external field strength. These values are measured using a complementary driver configuration and an antenna matched to 40 Ω between TX1 and TX2 at 13.56 MHz. Performance varies with PCB layout, matching network quality, and power supply stability.
Which host interfaces are available on PN5120A0HN/C1,557?
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 provides four configurable host interfaces: SPI (up to 10 Mbit/s), I²C (Fast mode up to 400 kBd, High-speed mode up to 3400 kBd), UART (RS232-level, up to 1228.8 kBd), and 8-bit parallel (with ALE/NRD/NWR strobes). The 8-bit parallel interface is exclusive to the HVQFN40 package variant (PN5120A0HN/C1,557) and requires dedicated address/data bus routing on the PCB.
Is PN5120A0HN/C1,557 qualified for automotive applications?
No, PN5120A0HN/C1,557 is rated for commercial/industrial operation from −30 °C to +85 °C and is not AEC-Q100 qualified. For automotive use, NXP offers the industrial version PN512AA0HN1/C2 (HVQFN32), which meets AEC-Q100 Grade 3 requirements and operates from −40 °C to +90 °C. PN5120A0HN/C1,557 is intended for payment terminals, access control, and consumer electronics where extended temperature qualification is not required.
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- MIFARE®
- Package/Case:
- 40-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- 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:
- 40-HVQFN (6x6)
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PN5120A0HN/C1,557 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PN5120A0HN/C1,557 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 PN5120A0HN/C1,557 reliable?
The price and inventory of PN5120A0HN/C1,557 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PN5120A0HN/C1,557 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PN5120A0HN/C1,557?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PN5120A0HN/C1,557 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PN5120A0HN/C1,557?
PN5120A0HN/C1,557 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PN5120A0HN/C1,557 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 PN5120A0HN/C1,557?
For technical support, including PN5120A0HN/C1,557 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PN5120A0HN/C1,557 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PN5120A0HN/C1,557 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PN5120A0HN/C1,557 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 PN5120A0HN/C1,557 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PN5120A0HN/C1,557?
All PN5120A0HN/C1,557 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PN5120A0HN/C1,557, 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 PN5120A0HN/C1,557 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PN5120A0HN/C1,557:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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