Overview
The MKW38A512VFT4 is a 32-bit wireless microcontroller from NXP USA Inc., part of the KW39/38/37 series. This device integrates Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) version 5.0 and generic FSK radio capabilities, making it suitable for a wide range of wireless applications. It features an Arm® Cortex®-M0+ core and is designed for low-power consumption, making it ideal for battery-powered devices. The MCU supports up to 8 simultaneous secure connections and includes advanced security features such as AES-128 hardware acceleration and a true random number generator.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Processor Core | Arm® Cortex®-M0+ |
| Operating Frequency | Up to 48 MHz |
| Memory | 256 KB program flash with ECC, 256 KB FlexNVM, 8 KB FlexRAM, 64 KB SRAM |
| Bluetooth LE | Version 5.0, supporting up to 8 simultaneous hardware connections, high speed (2M PHY), long range, advertising extension |
| Generic FSK | Data rates: 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 kbit/s |
| Sensitivity | -105 dBm (BLE LR 125 kbit/s), -95.5 dBm (BLE 2 Mbit/s) |
| Power Consumption | Typical Rx current: 6.3 mA, Typical Tx current: 5.7 mA, Low-power Mode (VLLS0) Current: 266.6 nA |
| Voltage Range | 1.71 V to 3.6 V |
| Temperature Range | -40 to 105 °C |
| Package | 48-pin 'Wettable' HVQFN 7x7 mm Pitch 0.5 mm |
| Qualification | AEC Q100 Grade 2 Automotive Qualification |
Key Features
- Integrated DC-DC converter for operation from a single coin cell or Li-ion battery
- FlexCAN module with CAN FD support up to 3.2 Mbit/s baudrate (on KW38)
- Advanced security features including AES-128 hardware accelerator, true random number generator, and advanced flash security
- High-accuracy measurements for distance and angle approximations using the data stream buffer
- Support for up to 8 simultaneous secure connections in any leader/follower combination
- Low-power operating modes with significant power reduction
- General-purpose input/output (GPIO) and other peripherals like LPUART, ADC, and Carrier Modulator Timer (CMT)
Applications
- Automotive systems, including in-vehicle and industrial CAN communication networks
- Industrial automation and control systems
- IoT devices requiring low-power and long-range wireless connectivity
- Health and fitness wearables
- Smart home devices and appliances
Q & A
- What is the processor core of the MKW38A512VFT4?
The processor core is an Arm® Cortex®-M0+.
- What are the key wireless capabilities of the MKW38A512VFT4?
The device supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) version 5.0 and generic FSK radio.
- What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKW38A512VFT4?
The maximum operating frequency is up to 48 MHz.
- What are the memory specifications of the MKW38A512VFT4?
The device includes 256 KB program flash with ECC, 256 KB FlexNVM, 8 KB FlexRAM, and 64 KB SRAM.
- What is the sensitivity of the BLE receiver in the MKW38A512VFT4?
The sensitivity is -105 dBm for BLE LR 125 kbit/s and -95.5 dBm for BLE 2 Mbit/s.
- Does the MKW38A512VFT4 support CAN FD?
Yes, the FlexCAN module on the KW38 supports CAN FD up to 3.2 Mbit/s baudrate.
- What are the power consumption characteristics of the MKW38A512VFT4?
Typical Rx current is 6.3 mA, typical Tx current is 5.7 mA, and low-power mode (VLLS0) current is 266.6 nA.
- What is the operating temperature range of the MKW38A512VFT4?
The operating temperature range is -40 to 105 °C.
- What is the package type of the MKW38A512VFT4?
The package type is a 48-pin 'Wettable' HVQFN 7x7 mm Pitch 0.5 mm.
- Is the MKW38A512VFT4 qualified for automotive use?
Yes, it is qualified to AEC Q100 Grade 2 for automotive applications.
