MK21FX512VLQ12

Microcontrollers Overview

The MK21FX512VLQ12 is an ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with a floating-point unit, operating at up to 120 MHz. It features 512 KB of flash memory and 128 KB of SRAM. The device includes USB full-/low-speed On-the-Go capabilities, CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, SDHC, and I2S interfaces. Analog modules consist of two 16-bit ADCs, two 12-bit DACs, and three comparators. Operating voltage ranges from 1.71 V to 3.6 V across an ambient temperature range of -40°C to +105°C.

Microcontrollers Feature Summary

• Integrates DryIce tamper detection for active and passive pin monitoring, temperature sensing, clock analysis, and supply voltage surveillance.
• Supports multiple low-power modes including very-low-leakage stop modes with static power consumption as low as 268 nA.
• Provides hardware encryption, a hardware random-number generator, and secure storage for integrity protection.
• Features a 120 MHz core delivering 1.25 Dhrystone MIPS per MHz with DSP instructions and single-precision floating-point operations.

Microcontrollers Applications

• Electronic Point of Sale (POS) systems
• Cost-sensitive applications requiring USB connectivity
• Low-power embedded control systems

Microcontrollers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'VLQ12' against the manufacturer's current ordering information to confirm package type and availability. Ensure the selected variant matches the required memory size and I/O count for the design. Cross-reference the datasheet revision to validate electrical characteristics before finalizing procurement.

Microcontrollers Selection Notes

Select this component when a balance of processing efficiency, security, and cost is required. The integrated USB OTG controller and extensive peripheral set reduce external component needs. Consider the available low-power modes if battery life or energy efficiency is a primary design constraint.

Microcontrollers Part Context

This part belongs to the Kinetis K21F sub-family, which is optimized for cost-sensitive applications. It shares scalability and enablement features with the broader Kinetis family. The K21 series emphasizes low power, USB connectivity, and robust tamper protection mechanisms suitable for secure environments.

Microcontrollers Replacement Considerations

Consult the official datasheet for confirmed substitute part numbers within the same family. Verify that any replacement maintains identical memory configurations, package dimensions, and electrical specifications to ensure compatibility.