NXP Semiconductors PN5190B1EV/C127K

Overview

PN5190B1EV/C127K from NXP Semiconductors is a high-power NFC frontend IC supporting ISO/IEC 14443-A/B, FeliCa, ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 18000-3 Mode 3, NFC-IP1/2, and MIFARE card family R/W up to 848 kbit/s. It integrates dynamic power control (DPC), adaptive waveshape control (AWC), and autonomous EMD error handling, enabling robust operation in Linux/Android-based systems without real-time host intervention. Its VFBGA64 package delivers 2.3 W RF output power with ultra-low-power card detection down to 22 µA.

For engineers reviewing the PN5190B1EV/C127K datasheet, PN5190B1EV/C127K pinout, PN5190B1EV/C127K application, or PN5190B1EV/C127K equivalent, key selection considerations include its firmware version 2.7 initialization, integrated DC-DC for single-supply 3.3 V operation, SPI interface up to 15 Mbit/s, 64-ball VFBGA package with 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm footprint, and support for EMVCo-compliant payment terminals requiring high field strength and low standby current.

Technical Context

The PN5190B1EV/C127K implements a fully integrated 13.56 MHz NFC frontend with hardware-accelerated crypto for MIFARE Classic, Plus, Ultralight, and DESFire cards. Its analog front-end includes dual TX outputs (TX1/TX2), differential RX inputs (RXP/RXN), and VMID symmetry point connection for antenna tuning.

It features an embedded 27.12 MHz crystal oscillator or PLL-based clocking (24/32/48 MHz input), independent 1024-byte TX/RX SPI buffers, and configurable DPC with guard time register (0x087h default 0xFF). Firmware v2.7 adds DPR (Dynamic Power Regulation), LFO timing calibration for LPCD accuracy, and CTS fast configuration command (0x2B).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

VFBGA64 package: plastic very thin fine-pitch ball grid array, 64 balls, 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm × 0.80 mm body, MSL=3, delivered in multiple trays (K packing code).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NFC frontend applications.

Compared with PN7160B1HN/C127K and ST25R3916B, the PN5190B1EV/C127K uniquely combines 2.3 W output, integrated DC-DC for single-supply design, v2.7 firmware with DPR and LPCD-with-Autocoll, and full MIFARE crypto licensing - making it the only option qualified for high-reliability EMVCo Level 1 payment terminals and government eID readers.

Availability

PN5190B1EV/C127K is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for payment terminals, physical access systems, and eGovernment ID readers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and certified NFC performance.

Supply support for PN5190B1EV/C127K 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 IoT markets, with over 20 years of NFC innovation and EMVCo certification expertise.

The PN5190 product line delivers high-power, firmware-flexible NFC frontends designed specifically for certified payment terminals, secure access systems, and government ID infrastructure requiring robust field strength, ultra-low-power wake capabilities, and hardware-accelerated crypto.

FAQ

What firmware version is pre-programmed on the PN5190B1EV/C127K?

The PN5190B1EV/C127K ships with firmware version 2.7 pre-installed. This version includes Dynamic Power Regulation (DPR), LFO timing calibration for improved ULPCD accuracy, enhanced SOF/EOF timing for EMVCo L1 compliance, and the LPCD-with-Autocoll event mode (bControl=0x13). Firmware updates are supported via encrypted download using the DWL_REQ pin or secure command interface.

Does the PN5190B1EV/C127K support MIFARE Classic and DESFire card authentication in hardware?

Yes, the PN5190B1EV/C127K includes hardware-accelerated crypto engines licensed for NXP MIFARE Classic, Plus, Ultralight, and DESFire families. It supports full R/W operations including mutual authentication, key diversification, and AES-128 encryption - all executed on-chip without host CPU involvement, reducing latency and meeting EMVCo and Common Criteria security requirements.

What is the significance of the "K" suffix in PN5190B1EV/C127K?

The "K" suffix in PN5190B1EV/C127K indicates delivery in multiple trays (not reel or single tray). This packing format supports flexible order quantities starting at 2450 pcs and is optimized for mid-volume production runs and qualification builds where reel handling is unnecessary. The "EV" prefix denotes the VFBGA64 package variant (4.5 mm × 4.5 mm), distinct from the "HN" VFLGA40 variant.

Can the PN5190B1EV/C127K operate from a single 3.3 V supply without external DC-DC?

Yes, the PN5190B1EV/C127K supports single 3.3 V operation using its integrated DC-DC converter to generate up to 6.0 V for the transmitter LDO (VDDPA). This eliminates external boost converters, simplifies power design, and maintains full 2.3 W RF output - unlike alternatives requiring dual supplies. The DC-DC is optional; direct VDDPA supply is also supported for lower-noise or legacy designs.

How does the PN5190B1EV/C127K achieve ultra-low-power card detection at 22 µA?

The PN5190B1EV/C127K achieves 22 µA typical ULPCD current through a combination of asynchronous analog front-end sampling, clock gating of digital blocks during sleep, and firmware-optimized polling intervals (330 ms default). Its integrated LFO timing calibration (v2.7+) ensures precise pulse interval accuracy, while GPIO3 is hardwired to abort ULPCD on demand - enabling sub-100 µs wake latency for responsive user interaction.