NXP Semiconductors T1023NSE7KQA

Overview

T1023NSE7KQA from NXP Semiconductors is a dual-core 64-bit Power Architecture® communications processor featuring e5500 cores clocked up to 1.4 GHz, 256 KB backside L2 cache per core, DPAA acceleration, and integrated QUICC Engine for TDM/HDLC. It targets cost- and power-sensitive edge networking systems including WLAN access points and unified threat management gateways.

For engineers reviewing the T1023NSE7KQA datasheet, T1023NSE7KQA pinout, T1023NSE7KQA application, or T1023NSE7KQA equivalent, key selection criteria include DDR3L/DDR4 memory controller bandwidth (1600 MT/s), SerDes lane count (4 × 10 Gbit/s), Ethernet MAC count (up to 4 × 1 GbE + 1 × 10 GbE), SEC 5.x crypto acceleration, and FCBGA-783 package compatibility with T1024/T1042 designs.

Technical Context

The T1023NSE7KQA implements two e5500 64-bit cores with hybrid 32-bit mode support, 256 KB dedicated L2 cache per core, and 256 KB shared platform cache. Its CoreNet Coherency Fabric enables coherent inter-core communication while QMAN and BMAN provide hardware-accelerated packet queuing and buffer management.

DPAA offloads L2–L3 tunneling, CAPWAP/DTLS, parsing/classification/distribution, and SEC 5.x cryptography. The integrated QUICC Engine supports legacy TDM, HDLC, and industrial protocols, and four SerDes lanes support SGMII, QSGMII, XFI, PCIe 2.0, and SATA 2.0 physical layers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

23 mm × 23 mm Fine-Pitch Chip Array Ball Grid Array (FCBGA) with 783 I/O balls, RoHS-compliant, lead-free, and designed for industrial temperature operation (–40°C to +105°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar communications processor applications.

Compared with T1023NSE7KQA, T1024NSE7KQA adds hardware-enforced security monitoring and coherency for multi-core consistency, while T1013NSE7KQA removes coherency and SerDes capability to reduce cost and thermal envelope-making each variant optimal for distinct tiers of edge networking performance and trust requirements.

Availability

T1023NSE7KQA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for WLAN enterprise access points, unified threat management gateways, and industrial automation controllers requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for T1023NSE7KQA 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 networking markets, with leadership in Power Architecture® and QorIQ processor families.

The QorIQ T1023 series is part of NXP's edge networking SoC portfolio, designed specifically for low-power, cost-optimized control-plane and data-path processing in enterprise and service provider infrastructure equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the T1023NSE7KQA?

The T1023NSE7KQA operates at a maximum frequency of 1.4 GHz. This clock speed applies to both e5500 cores and is validated across the industrial temperature range (–40°C to +105°C). The device achieves this frequency using a 256 KB backside L2 cache per core and optimized power delivery, enabling deterministic real-time packet processing in edge routing and wireless infrastructure applications. T1023NSE7KQA maintains full feature enablement-including DPAA, SEC 5.x, and QUICC Engine-at rated speed.

Does the T1023NSE7KQA support DDR4 memory?

Yes, the T1023NSE7KQA supports both DDR3L and DDR4 memory via its 64-bit memory controller, with data rates up to 1600 MT/s. The controller includes ECC support for single-bit error correction and double-bit error detection, critical for carrier-grade reliability. Memory initialization and training are handled by on-chip logic, and the T1023NSE7KQA requires specific termination and layout guidelines per JEDEC DDR4 specifications. T1023NSE7KQA does not support LPDDR4 or DDR5.

How many PCIe controllers does the T1023NSE7KQA integrate?

The T1023NSE7KQA integrates three PCIe 2.0 controllers, each supporting x1 lane configuration. These controllers are implemented using the four-lane SerDes block, with flexible lane assignment allowing combinations such as 1× x1 + 1× x1 + 1× x1 + 1× x1 (four independent links) or consolidated configurations. All PCIe controllers support root complex and endpoint modes, MSI/MSI-X, and hot-plug detection. T1023NSE7KQA does not support PCIe 3.0 or bifurcation beyond x1.

Is the T1023NSE7KQA pin-compatible with the T1042 processor?

No, the T1023NSE7KQA is not pin-compatible with the T1042 processor. While both use 23 mm × 23 mm FCBGA packages, the T1023NSE7KQA uses a 783-ball FCBGA whereas the T1042 uses a 783-ball FCBGA with different ball map and signal assignments. However, the T1023NSE7KQA shares scalable pin compatibility with the T1024 and T1042 within the same package footprint family-meaning PCB layout reuse requires redesign but leverages identical mechanical mounting and thermal pad alignment. T1023NSE7KQA's pinout is unique to the T1023/T1013 variant group.

What security features are implemented in the T1023NSE7KQA?

The T1023NSE7KQA implements QorIQ Trust Architecture, including secure boot with hash-based image validation, secure debug with encrypted session keys, tamper detection via voltage/temperature/frequency monitors, and volatile key storage. It includes SEC 5.x for AES, SHA, RSA, and ECC acceleration, plus MACSEC support on all Ethernet ports. Unlike the T1024, it omits the Security Fuse Processor and Security Monitor blocks-so persistent key binding and hardware-enforced lockdown require external supervision. T1023NSE7KQA delivers certified security functionality aligned with NIST SP 800-193 and IEC 62443-3-3.