MC9328MX21CVM Processor Overview for 2025: Specs, Uses, and Options

You use the mc9328mx21cvm processor for fast work in small computers. This processor is part of the i.MX21 family. It has an ARM926EJ-S core. It can run as fast as 266 MHz. It is made to help with pictures, sound, and connecting to other things. The mc9328mx21cvm processor works with many kinds of memory. People use it in cars for music and maps, in screens, and in control systems. The mc9328mx21cvm processor is good because it does not use much power. It also works well and does not break easily in small devices.

• Automotive infotainment

• Display units

• Control applications

The mc9328mx21cvm processor lets you make smart and fast small computers. It is also flexible.

Key Takeaways

• The MC9328MX21CVM processor works well in small devices. It runs fast at 266 MHz and uses little power. This processor works with many memory types like SDRAM and NAND Flash. This makes it good for different uses. It has multimedia support built in. You can play videos smoothly and use graphics easily. The small 289-pin MAPBGA package fits in tight spaces. This is great for portable and embedded systems. The MC9328MX21CVM works for consumer and industrial uses. It can be used in cars for infotainment and in medical devices.

MC9328MX21CVM Processor Basics

Overview

The MC9328MX21CVM processor is part of the i.mx21 family. NXP Semiconductors makes this processor now. They got it after buying Freescale Semiconductor. The i.mx21 family is known for working well in many small systems. If you need a processor for small devices, you should check out the i.mx21 family. This processor works in lots of projects like smart screens and control panels.

• The MC9328MX21CVM processor is in the i.mx21 family.

• NXP Semiconductors is the company that makes it.

• The i.mx21 family is used in many small and portable devices.

• You can use this processor in both home and work devices.

Core and Architecture

The MC9328MX21CVM processor uses the Arm926EJ-S core. This core helps balance speed and low power use. The table below shows how the processor’s features help you:

Feature	Description
Processor Core	Arm926EJ-S core runs up to 266 MHz for strong performance and low power.
On-Chip Caches	16 KB instruction cache and 16 KB data cache boost speed and efficiency.
Multimedia Accelerator	Hardware video support for smooth MPEG-4 playback at QVGA and 30 fps.
Display Support	LCD controller and CMOS sensor interface handle graphics and camera input.
Memory Interfaces	Supports SDRAM, NAND Flash with ECC, and more for flexible storage.
Connectivity	USB, UARTs, SPI, I²C, and dual MMC/SD slots for easy communication.
System Control	Timers, PWM, and watchdog timer keep your system stable.
Low-Power Operation	Advanced power management for longer battery life.
Reliability	Works across wide temperatures and meets industrial standards.
Debug and DMA	JTAG debug and DMA controller help with software and data transfer.

The Arm926EJ-S core lets you do many things at once. It does not use much energy, so your device battery lasts longer. There are many built-in features to help you design your project. The i.mx21 family connects to lots of sensors and other parts. Its small size means you can use it in tight spaces.

Tip: If you want a processor for a portable or work device, the MC9328MX21CVM from the i.mx21 family gives you good power, flexibility, and reliability.

Key Features and Specs

Performance and Cache

The MC9328MX21CVM processor works fast. It can reach speeds up to 266 MHz. It has a 16 KB instruction cache and a 16 KB data cache. These caches help your device run quickly. The processor uses smart refresh for LCD screens. This saves power. Video and camera tasks use special hardware. This makes the CPU work less. The processor supports NAND and SDRAM memory. These are good for saving money. It mixes multimedia, memory, and I/O features in one chip.

• Maximum clock speed: 266 MHz

• 16 KB instruction cache

• 16 KB data cache

• Efficient LCD handling

• Hardware video and camera support

• Cost-effective memory support

Note: This processor is good for portable devices. It uses little power and works well.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Smart LCD refresh saves power.	Uses older ARM9 core, not very fast now.
Hardware video and camera help the CPU.	Not much support for new software.
NAND and SDRAM memory save money.	No advanced features like multi-core or GPUs.
Multimedia, memory, and I/O all in one chip.	Hard to find for new designs.
Uses little power, good for portable devices.	Not the best for future products.

Power and Voltage

This processor uses little power. It needs about 120 mA when working. In standby, it uses less than 1 mA. Devices can last longer on battery. Low power is important for portable and embedded systems.

• Full operation: 120 mA

• Standby mode: less than 1 mA

• Extended battery life

• Low power consumption for portable devices

Connectivity Options

You can connect many things to the MC9328MX21CVM processor. It supports USB OTG, UART, SPI, I²C, IrDA, 1-Wire, and audio. These help your system talk to other hardware. You get WLAN, Bluetooth, USB, MMC/SD, and PCMCIA/CF support. The processor gives you many ways to connect devices.

Interface	Description
USB OTG	Lets devices use USB easily
UART	Serial communication for data
SPI	Fast data transfer
I²C	Serial communication for many devices
IrDA	Sends data with infrared light
1-Wire	Simple way to connect sensors
Audio	Connects to audio devices

Tip: You can use these to connect screens, sensors, and storage. The processor works with many types of communication.

Package Type

The processor comes in a small 289-pin MAPBGA package. It uses surface mount, so it saves space on your board. The package is only 1.6 mm tall. You can make small, dense systems with it. The package helps with miniaturization and strong mounting.

Feature	Description
Package Type	289-pin MAPBGA
Ball Count	289
Overall Package Height	1.6 mm (max)
Mounting Type	Surface Mount
Package / Case	289-LFBGA

Advantage	Description
Miniaturization	40% smaller than similar QFP packages.
Thermal Performance	Central pad helps heat leave the board (4.5°C/W).
Electrical Benefits	Low-inductance design for fast signals.
Reliability	Moisture-resistant and MSL3 certified.

Callout: The package lets you build small and reliable devices. It is good for places where space is tight.

The MC9328MX21CVM processor has many features and specs. It gives you fast speed, low power use, many ways to connect, and a small package. These help you make modern embedded systems with ease.

Processor Applications

The MC9328MX21CVM processor works in many devices. You can use it for lots of embedded applications. It is made for both home and work needs. This makes it a good pick for many projects.

Consumer Devices

This processor is found in many electronics people use. It helps run popular embedded applications. Here are some devices that use it:

• Portable multimedia devices like MP3 players, PDAs, and digital cameras

• Smartphones and messaging devices

• Consumer electronics and web gadgets, such as web browsers, wireless communicators, and interactive tools

These devices play video and audio smoothly. The processor helps batteries last longer and makes pictures look better. It also lets you connect your device to other gadgets easily.

Feature	Benefit
Integrated multimedia accelerator (eMMA)	Plays video and audio well without using the CPU much.
Low power consumption	Makes batteries last longer, great for portable devices.
Support for LCD displays	Makes screens look better in electronics.
Multiple connectivity options	Lets you play videos, stream music, and store files easily.
USB OTG, MMC/SD support	Gives you more ways to connect devices.

Tip: If you want to make consumer embedded applications, this processor helps you build fast, strong, and energy-saving products.

Industrial and Medical

This processor is also used in many work devices. It works well in control systems, factory machines, and monitoring tools. The processor can handle tough places and keeps things working.

Some common industrial uses are:

• Human-machine interfaces (HMIs) for factory machines

• Data loggers and process controllers

• Touch panels and smart sensors for industry

• Medical monitors and portable test tools

• Car control units and infotainment systems

You get low power use and strong performance from this processor. It helps devices work for a long time without stopping. Its small size fits into tight spots, which is important for work and medical devices.

Note: For work and medical embedded applications, you can count on this processor for steady performance and long-lasting support.

The MC9328MX21CVM processor works in many places. It is used in both home and work devices. You can use it for electronics, medical tools, and factory machines. This makes it a smart choice for your next project.

Alternatives to MC9328MX21CVM

MC9328MXLCVM15 Comparison

You might want to check out the MC9328MXLCVM15 for your project. This processor is also part of the i.MX family. It works at a slower speed, up to 150 MHz. Both processors have the Arm926EJ-S core and support LCD screens. The MC9328MXLCVM15 uses less power. This helps your battery last longer. It is easier to keep cool in small devices.

Feature	MC9328MX21CVM	MC9328MXLCVM15
Max Clock Speed	266 MHz	150 MHz
Power Consumption	Moderate	Lower
LCD Support	Yes	Yes
Package Type	289-pin MAPBGA	289-pin MAPBGA
Use Case	Faster tasks	Longer battery life

Tip: Pick MC9328MXLCVM15 if you want to save power. It is good if you do not need high speed.

Other Processor Options

You can look at other processors for your system. Some new models are faster and have better graphics. You can try the i.MX6 or i.MX7 families. These processors have more cores and extra features. They work better for video, audio, and wireless jobs.

• i.MX6: Good for fast and multi-core needs

• i.MX7: Great for low power and safe uses

• STM32 series: Popular for simple controls and sensors

• Texas Instruments Sitara: Used for work and medical devices

Processor Family	Main Benefit	Typical Use
i.MX6	Multi-core, fast	Smart screens
i.MX7	Low power, secure	IoT devices
STM32	Easy to use, flexible	Sensors, controls
Sitara	Reliable, strong	Industrial, medical

Note: Pick a processor that fits your project. Think about speed, power, and features before you choose.

You get good value from the MC9328MX21CVM processor in small projects. It works well in devices that need low power. Here are its main strengths:

Strength	Description
Power Consumption	Uses about 120 mA when working and less than 1 mA in standby. This is great for battery devices.
Video Acceleration	Plays MPEG-4 video smoothly with hardware help. This makes the CPU do less work.
Memory Flexibility	Works with SDRAM, NAND Flash, and MMC/SD cards. This gives you easy ways to store things.

Pick this processor for these uses:

• Portable multimedia devices and digital cameras

• Smartphones and messaging tools

• Consumer electronics and web appliances

• Industrial, automotive, and video systems

Think about these things when you choose a processor:

• How fast it works and what memory it supports

• How much power it uses and what voltage it needs

• What extra parts it connects to and its design

• Security, special processing, and cost

Today, people want chips that save energy and have new features. The MC9328MX21CVM is good for home and work automation. For your next step, match your project needs with these features and ask suppliers for more details.

 

 

 

 

 

Written by Jack Elliott from AIChipLink.

 

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