The FRDM-MCXC444 Development Board by NXP Semiconductors is designed for rapid prototyping with the MCX C444 microcontroller, featuring an Arm Cortex-M0+ core running at 48MHz. The board offers up to 256kB flash and 32kB RAM, optimized for performance efficiency. Equipped with industry-standard headers, it provides easy access to the MCU’s I/Os, including Arduino and FRDM headers for expansion. Connectivity options include a USB Type-C connector, SPI/I2C/UART interfaces, and a Wi-Fi connector for enhanced communication. Debugging is simplified with the onboard MCU-Link debugger supporting CMSIS-DAP and JTAG/SWD.

Additional features include the FXLS8974CFR3 3-axis accelerometer, visible light sensor, RGB user LED, and multiple buttons for user interface interactions. With additional resources like the MCUXpresso Developer Experience, the FRDM-MCXC444 offers a comprehensive solution for developers.

FRDM-MCXC444 Development Board Features  

The FRDM-MCXC444 is a versatile development board designed for rapid prototyping with the MCX C444 microcontroller. It offers a wide range of features and connectivity options, making it suitable for various embedded applications. Let’s explore some of its notable features:

Microcontroller and Performance

The FRDM-MCXC444 development board is powered by an MCX C444 microcontroller, featuring an Arm Cortex-M0+ core operating at 48MHz. This architecture provides a balance between performance and power efficiency, making it suitable for a variety of embedded applications. This development board offers optimized performance efficiency, with up to 256kB of flash memory and 32kB of RAM. This makes it ideal for applications requiring moderate computing power and efficient memory usage.

Connectivity and Expansion

The board offers versatile connectivity options, including an FS USB Type-C connector for high-speed data transfer. Standard serial interfaces such as SPI, I2C, and UART are supported via mikroBUS and Pmod connectors. Additionally, the board provides a Wi-Fi connector, allowing for wireless communication and internet connectivity. For further expansion, the board includes Arduino and FRDM headers, offering flexibility for adding peripherals and external components.

Debugging and Programming

The FRDM-MCXC444 Development Board includes an onboard MCU-Link debugger, fully compatible with CMSIS-DAP, and JTAG/SWD connectors. This enables developers to monitor and control the execution of the microcontroller, set breakpoints, and inspect variables. The debugger provides efficient access to the core features of the MCU, enabling comprehensive testing and debugging during prototyping.

Sensors and User Interface

The board is equipped with the FXLS8974CFR3 3-axis accelerometer and a visible light sensor, suitable for motion and light-sensing applications. A user-friendly interface includes an RGB LED, reset, ISP, and wake-up buttons, as well as an SLCD display for real-time feedback. These features enhance the usability of the board in various development environments, providing practical options for sensor-based applications.

Applications

The FRDM-MCXC444 Development Board finds applications in various industrial and consumer sectors. 

In industrial settings, it can be used for tasks such as air conditioning control, brushless DC motor control, building automation, electricity metering, factory automation, industrial HMI, motion control, and robotics. Other applications include motor drives, permanent magnet synchronous motor control, smart lighting, and smart power socket and light switch applications. 

In smart city initiatives, the FRDM-MCXC444 can be utilized for smart locks, smart home applications, home control, home surveillance, and vital signs monitoring. 

The board is suitable for developing small and medium appliances and smart appliances.