MK50DX256ZCLL10 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MK50DX256ZCLL10 is an ARM Cortex-M4 Kinetis K50 microcontroller manufactured by NXP USA Inc. This 32-bit single-core device operates at 100MHz with 256KB FLASH memory and is housed in a 100-LQFP package. The product is classified as Not For New Designs, indicating it has reached end-of-life status. Finding equivalent substitute parts is necessary for ongoing production support, maintenance applications, and legacy system updates where continued component availability is required.

Substiute Parts

MK50DX256ZCLL10

NXP USA Inc.In Stock: 337263MK50DX256ZCLL10 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

ATSAM3U4CA-AU

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 3129ATSAM3U4CA-AU Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MK50DX256ZCLL10 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Package Compatibility: Both the main part and substitute must use the 100-LQFP (14x14) surface mount package to ensure PCB footprint compatibility without redesign.

Memory Configuration: The substitute must provide a minimum of 256KB FLASH memory and comparable RAM capacity to maintain firmware compatibility and application functionality.

Voltage Supply Range: The substitute operating voltage must overlap with or encompass the 1.71V ~ 3.6V range of the original part to ensure reliable operation across the same power supply specifications.

Temperature Range: The substitute must support the -40°C ~ 85°C operating temperature range to maintain performance in equivalent environmental conditions.

Core Architecture: While the original uses ARM Cortex-M4, substitutes with ARM Cortex-M3 architecture are acceptable when other parameters align, as both are 32-bit single-core processors with compatible instruction sets for most legacy applications.

Connectivity and Peripherals: The substitute must provide equivalent or superior connectivity options (I2C, SPI, UART/USART, USB) and peripheral support (DMA, PWM, WDT) to maintain system integration.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The ATSAM3U4CA-AU from Microchip Technology qualifies as a substitute for the MK50DX256ZCLL10 based on the following engineering criteria:

Package Compatibility: Both devices use the 100-LQFP (14x14) surface mount package, eliminating the need for PCB redesign.

Memory Alignment: Both provide 256KB FLASH memory. The ATSAM3U4CA-AU offers 52K x 8 RAM compared to 64K x 8 in the original; this 12KB reduction must be evaluated against specific application requirements.

Voltage and Temperature Compliance: The ATSAM3U4CA-AU operates within 1.62V ~ 3.6V, which encompasses the original 1.71V ~ 3.6V range. Both devices support the identical -40°C ~ 85°C operating temperature range.

Regulatory Compliance: Both parts are ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and share identical MSL ratings, ensuring equivalent environmental and regulatory standing.

Product Status Advantage: The ATSAM3U4CA-AU maintains Active product status, providing superior long-term availability compared to the Not For New Designs status of the original part.

Connectivity and Peripheral Considerations: The ATSAM3U4CA-AU provides core connectivity (I2C, SPI, UART/USART, USB) and essential peripherals (DMA, PWM, WDT). The original part includes IrDA and SD connectivity not present in the substitute; applications dependent on these interfaces require alternative solutions. The original part includes LVD (Low Voltage Detect) and provides superior analog conversion capability (34x16b A/D vs. 4x10b, 4x12b).

Performance Trade-off: The ATSAM3U4CA-AU operates at 96MHz versus 100MHz in the original part. This 4% speed reduction is acceptable for most legacy applications but must be verified for timing-critical operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the ATSAM3U4CA-AU directly replace the MK50DX256ZCLL10 without PCB modifications?

A: Yes, both devices use the 100-LQFP (14x14) package with identical pinout compatibility for the 100-pin footprint. No PCB redesign is required for package substitution.

Q: What is the impact of the 12KB RAM reduction from 64KB to 52KB?

A: Applications must be evaluated to confirm that 52KB RAM is sufficient for the firmware stack, heap, and runtime data structures. Legacy applications designed for 64KB may require optimization or memory management review.

Q: Does the ATSAM3U4CA-AU support IrDA and SD connectivity present in the original part?

A: No. The ATSAM3U4CA-AU does not include IrDA or SD interfaces. Applications requiring these interfaces must implement alternative solutions or remain on the original part.

Q: Is the 4MHz speed difference (100MHz vs. 96MHz) significant for substitution?

A: The 4% speed reduction is generally acceptable for legacy applications. However, timing-critical operations, real-time control loops, or high-frequency signal processing must be validated to ensure performance requirements are met.

Q: What is the advantage of selecting the ATSAM3U4CA-AU over the original part?

A: The ATSAM3U4CA-AU maintains Active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support. The original MK50DX256ZCLL10 is classified as Not For New Designs, indicating limited future availability.

Q: Are there differences in analog conversion capability between the two parts?

A: Yes. The MK50DX256ZCLL10 provides 34x16-bit A/D converters and 2x12-bit D/A converters. The ATSAM3U4CA-AU provides 4x10-bit and 4x12-bit A/D converters. Applications requiring high-resolution analog conversion must verify compatibility.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory and compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both parts are ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and share identical Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) ratings of 3 (168 Hours), ensuring equivalent environmental and regulatory standing.