MC9328MXLCVM15 Processor: A Technical Guide to the DragonBall MXL

If you're an engineer or technician maintaining industrial control systems or legacy handheld devices, the MC9328MXLCVM15 is a part number that commands respect. This processor isn't just a chip; it's a piece of embedded history. As part of the legendary DragonBall MXL family, it powered the transition from simple microcontrollers to the high-performance application processors we use today.

While you won't design a new smartwatch with it in 2025, this 150 MHz ARM9 processor is still the beating heart of thousands of critical industrial systems, medical devices, and point-of-sale terminals worldwide. When these systems fail, you don't replace the machine—you replace the chip.

This guide is your definitive technical resource for the MC9328MXLCVM15. We’ll dive into the datasheet, explain its ARM920T architecture, decode its pinout, and help you navigate the challenges of sourcing this obsolete component.

1.0 What is the MC9328MXLCVM15? (Datasheet Explained)

The MC9328MXLCVM15 is a highly integrated application processor based on the ARM920T core. Originally developed by Motorola (later spun off as Freescale, now NXP), it was designed for low-power, high-performance handheld devices.

1.1 The DragonBall MXL: An ARM920T Legend

The DragonBall MXL series was a revolution. It integrated a 32-bit RISC processor with a suite of peripherals that were previously handled by separate chips. * **Integration:** It combines the CPU, LCD controller, USB connectivity, and memory controller on a single die. * **Efficiency:** Built for battery-powered devices, it features sophisticated power management modes. * **Legacy:** It is the direct ancestor of the modern NXP i.MX series application processors.

1.2 Decoding the Part Number: MC9328MXLCVM15

Understanding the part number is critical for ensuring compatibility. * **MC9328:** The device family code (DragonBall MX). * **MXL:** The specific "MXL" (low power/cost) variant. * **C:** Temperature range (Consumer/Commercial, typically -10°C to +70°C, though "C" often implies Commercial). * **VM:** Package type. **VM** stands for **256-pin MAPBGA** (Mold Array Process Ball Grid Array), RoHS compliant (lead-free). * **15:** The speed grade. This device is rated for **150 MHz**.

1.3 Status in 2025: Obsolescence and MRO

> **Official Status: OBSOLETE / END-OF-LIFE (EOL)** > > The **MC9328MXLCVM15** is an obsolete component. NXP no longer manufactures it. It is **Not Recommended for New Designs (NRND)**. > > Its primary value today is in the **MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations)** market. Engineers source this chip to repair expensive, long-lifecycle equipment where a full system redesign is impossible or cost-prohibitive.

2.0 MC9328MXLCVM15 Key Technical Specifications

When validating a replacement part, specs are everything.

2.1 Core Architecture: ARM920T Performance

Feature	Specification
Core	ARM920T (32-bit RISC)
Clock Speed	150 MHz
Cache	16KB Instruction / 16KB Data
MMU	Memory Management Unit (Supports Linux, Windows CE)
Voltage (Core)	1.8V
Voltage (I/O)	1.8V or 3.0V

2.2 Integrated Peripherals: LCD, USB, and UART

The "DragonBall" name comes from its ability to "do it all." * **LCD Controller:** Supports STN and TFT displays (up to 640x480). * **Connectivity:** Integrated USB 1.1 Client, UARTs (x2), SPI (x2), and I2C. * **Memory Interface:** Supports SDRAM, SRAM, and Flash (EIM - External Interface Module). * **Multimedia:** Includes a Multi-Media Card (MMC) / Secure Digital (SD) host controller.

2.3 Power Consumption and Operating Conditions

* **Operating Temperature:** -40°C to +85°C (for Industrial grades), though the 'C' suffix often denotes 0°C to 70°C or -10°C to +70°C depending on the exact datasheet vintage. Always verify the specific temperature rating on the chip marking. * **Power:** Typical power consumption is under **200 mW** at full speed, with deep sleep modes consuming microamps.

3.0 MC9328MXLCVM15 Pinout (MAPBGA-256 Package)

The MC9328MXLCVM15 pinout uses a high-density 256-ball MAPBGA package. This requires professional rework tools for replacement.

3.1 256-Ball MAPBGA Pin Configuration

The pins are arranged in a grid (e.g., A1 to T16). * **Ball Pitch:** 0.8 mm or 1.0 mm (check datasheet specifics for the 'VM' package). * **Mounting:** Surface Mount (SMT).

3.2 Key Pin Functions: Memory Bus, Power, and JTAG

When troubleshooting a board, focus on these critical pins: * **VCORE / QVDD:** Core voltage inputs (1.8V). * **NVDD:** I/O voltage inputs (1.8V-3.0V). * **CLK:** System clock input (usually 32kHz or 16MHz crystal). * **RESET:** System reset input (Active Low). * **JTAG:** TDI, TDO, TCK, TMS, TRST. These are essential for debugging and checking if the processor is "alive." * **Data/Address Bus:** D0-D31 and A0-A25 connect to the external Flash and RAM.

4.0 Applications and Replacement Strategy

This chip was the engine of the early 2000s mobile revolution.

4.1 Common Legacy Applications (Handhelds, Industrial Control)

You will find the **MC9328MXLCVM15** in: * **Industrial PDAs:** Ruggedized handheld scanners used in warehouses (e.g., Symbol, Motorola). * **Medical Monitoring:** Portable patient monitors and infusion pumps. * **Point-of-Sale (POS):** Mobile payment terminals. * **HMI Panels:** Human-Machine Interfaces in factory automation.

4.2 Finding a Replacement for the MC9328MXLCVM15

Since this part is obsolete, you have two main options: 1. **Direct Replacement:** Source a genuine **MC9328MXLCVM15** or a compatible variant (like the **MC9328MXLCVM20** - the 200MHz version). A faster speed grade can usually replace a slower one, provided the thermal design allows. 2. **System Redesign:** Migrate to a modern NXP i.MX RT (Crossover MCU) or i.MX 6UL. This is a massive engineering effort requiring a new PCB, new software (porting from older Linux/WinCE to modern Yocto/FreeRTOS), and requalification.

For 99% of MRO cases, Direct Replacement is the only viable economic choice.

In Conclusion

The MC9328MXLCVM15 Processor is a testament to the longevity of embedded designs. While the consumer world moves on every year, the industrial world relies on the stability and proven performance of chips like the DragonBall MXL. Understanding its specs, pinout, and legacy status is the key to keeping vital infrastructure running.

If you are facing a line-down situation due to this obsolete processor, don't risk your equipment with unverified sources. Explore our inventory of legacy processors or contact AichipLink today to secure the genuine components you need.

 

 

 

 

 

Written by Jack Elliott from AIChipLink.

 

AIChipLink, one of the fastest-growing global independent electronic   components distributors in the world, offers millions of products from thousands of manufacturers, and many of our in-stock parts is available to ship same day.

 

We mainly source and distribute integrated circuit (IC) products of brands such as Broadcom, Microchip, Texas Instruments, Infineon, NXP, Analog Devices, Qualcomm, Intel, etc., which are widely used in communication & network, telecom, industrial control, new energy and automotive electronics. 

 

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