Introduction This article describes the method to update the Boot ROM patch on MCX N94x / N54x devices to patch version T1.1.5.   Before beginning, note that this process can only be performed via ISP mode of the device and can only be performed using a command line method.  The NXP Secure Provisioning tool uses command line operations in its backend and does make these available to the user.  For directions on how to access the command line interface through the Secure Provisioning tool, consult your Secure Provisioning Tool documentation.  Command line blhost method ISP Pin Method 1) With the device powered off, assert the ISP pin (GPIO P0_6) by pulling this pin low. 2) With ISP pin still asserted, power on the device.   3) After the device has fully powered on (at least as long as the t_POR time quoted in the Power mode transition operating behaviors table of the MCX N94x / N54x datasheet), release the ISP pin.  4) Open a command prompt and set the working directory to your blhost installation. 5) Verify that the current version of ROM patch is not T1.1.5 using this command: blhost <interface> <parameters> -- get-property 24.  a) Where <interface> should be replaced with the code for the interface type and <parameters> should be replaced with the parameters of that interface.  For more information on this syntax, refer to the blhost User's Guide.   6) Execute this command:  blhost <interface> <parameters> receive-sb-file <path_to_file_location>/mcx_n10_a1_prov_fw_rp_v5.0.sb3.  7) Repeat steps 1 - 5 to verify that the ROM version is T1.1.5.  ISP Pin Unavailable - SWD Method 1) Connect to target via SWD 2) Open the secure provisioning tool 3) Select the serial interface window and select the command line button 4) Send the following command: nxpdebugmbox -i pyocd ispmode -m 0 5) Verify that the current version of ROM patch is not T1.1.5 using this command: blhost <interface> <parameters> -- get-property 24.  a) Where <interface> should be replaced with the code for the interface type and <parameters> should be replaced with the parameters of that interface.  For more information on this syntax, refer to the blhost User's Guide.   6) Execute this command:  blhost <interface> <parameters> receive-sb-file <path_to_file_location>/mcx_n10_a1_prov_fw_rp_v5.0.sb3 7) Repeat steps 1 - 5 to verify that the ROM version is T1.1.5.         

1. Overview The MCX N947 chip is a highly integrated microcontroller with robust processing capabilities, extensive peripheral support, and advanced security features, making it suitable for various complex applications. One of its critical peripherals is FlexSPI. FlexSPI is an expandable serial peripheral interface mainly used to connect solid-state storage devices such as QuadSPI NOR Flash, QuadSPI NAND Flash, and HyperRAM. FlexSPI is a comprehensive, flexible, high-performance solution that can be configured in different modes to support various storage devices. The NXP FRDM-MCXN947 board is a low-cost design and evaluation board based on the MCXN947 device. NXP provides tools and software support for the MCXN947 device, including hardware evaluation boards, integrated development environment (IDE) software, sample applications, and drivers. By default, the FlexSPI interface on this board connects to an MT35XU512 NOR Flash. In this article, we will explore how to connect HyperRAM to the FlexSPI interface of the MCXN947 board. Hardware environment:   Development Board: FRDM-MCXN947   HyperRAM：W956D8MBYA Software environment:   IDE：MCUXpresso IDE v11.9.0   SDK：SDK Builder | MCUXpresso SDK Builder (nxp.com) 2. HyperRAM Schematic Below is the official eight-line Flash schematic from the FRDM-MCXN947. Since the HyperRAM W956D8MBYA package is a TFBGA 24-Ball 5 x 5 Array, it can be directly replaced. Based on the above schematic, the signal connections for the HyperRAM memory are summarized in Table. HyperRAM Signal Connection Table HyperRAM Chip Pin Function Connected to MCXN947 CS CS Chip Select Signal P3_0/FLEXSPI0_A_SS0_b SCK SCK Clock Signal P3_7/FLEXSPI0_A_SCLK DQS DQS Signal P3_6/FLEXSPI0_A_DQS DQ0 OSPI Data Signal D0 P3_8/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA0 DQ1 OSPI Data Signal D1 P3_9/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA1 DQ2 OSPI Data Signal D2 P3_10/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA2 DQ3 OSPI Data Signal D3 P3_11/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA3 DQ4 OSPI Data Signal D4 P3_12/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA4 DQ5 OSPI Data Signal D5 P3_13/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA5 DQ6 OSPI Data Signal D6 P3_14/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA6 DQ7 OSPI Data Signal D7 P3_15/FLEXSPI0_A_DATA7 3. HyperRAM Configuration Process 3.1 Clock configuration The clock for FlexSPI needs to be correctly configured.   During the programming phase, it is safer to choose a lower frequency; here, we select 75MHz. 3.2 FlexSPI Initialization Configuration Structure Next, we configure the FlexSPI-related settings. We can call FLEXSPI_GetDefaultConfig to obtain some default configurations for the FlexSPI feature structure flexspi_config_t, which has a certain degree of universality and is compatible with most FlexSPI devices. For the W956D8MBYA HyperRAM, on the basis of the default configuration, add the following parameters: config.ahbConfig.enableAHBPrefetch = true; config.ahbConfig.enableAHBBufferable = true; config.ahbConfig.enableReadAddressOpt = true; config.ahbConfig.enableAHBCachable = true; config.rxSampleClock = kFLEXSPI_ReadSampleClkLoopbackFromDqsPad; (1) enableAHBPrefetch: Whether to enable AHB prefetching. When enabled, FlexSPI reads more data than the current AHB burst read. (2) enableAHBBufferable: Whether to enable AHB write buffer access. After executing a write command, it returns without waiting for its completion, allowing subsequent instructions to continue executing, enhancing system concurrency. (3) enableReadAddressOpt: Controls whether to remove the AHB read burst start address alignment restriction. If enabled, burst read addresses are not restricted by byte alignment. (4) enableAHBCachable: Enables AHB bus cacheable reads. If a hit occurs, data is read from the cache, but data consistency must be ensured. (5) rxSampleClock: The clock source used for reading data. For HyperRAM, HyperRAM provides a read strobe pulse and inputs it through the DQS pin. 3.3 Detailed Explanation of FlexSPI External Device Configuration Structure When FlexSPI communicates with external devices, it often needs to coordinate communication timing with the device, such as clock frequency and data validity duration. NXP's software library provides the flexspi_device_config_t structure specifically for configuring these parameters. typedef struct _flexspi_device_config { uint32_t flexspiRootClk; bool isSck2Enabled; uint32_t flashSize; flexspi_cs_interval_cycle_unit_t CSIntervalUnit; uint16_t CSInterval; uint8_t CSHoldTime; uint8_t CSSetupTime; uint8_t dataValidTime; uint8_t columnspace; bool enableWordAddress; uint8_t AWRSeqIndex; uint8_t AWRSeqNumber; uint8_t ARDSeqIndex; uint8_t ARDSeqNumber; flexspi_ahb_write_wait_unit_t AHBWriteWaitUnit; uint16_t AHBWriteWaitInterval; bool enableWriteMask; } flexspi_device_config_t; (1) flexspiRootClk = 75000000, this parameter matches the previously set FlexSPI clock frequency. (2) flashSize = 0x2000, the size of the Flash in kilobytes. For W956D8MBYA, 64Mb = 8MB = 8 * 1024KB. (3) CSIntervalUnit = kFLEXSPI_CsIntervalUnit1SckCycle, this parameter configures the time unit for the interval between CS signal lines. (4) CSInterval = 2, this parameter configures the minimum time interval for switching between valid and invalid states of the CS signal line, measured in the units defined by the above CSIntervalUnit member. (5) CSHoldTime = 3, this parameter sets the hold time for the CS signal line, measured in FlexSPI root clock cycles. (6) CSSetupTime = 3, this parameter sets the setup time for the CS signal line, measured in FlexSPI root clock cycles. According to the MCXNx4x datasheet,T_CK = 6ns，the minimum T_CSS = 8.3ns，and the minimumT_CSH = 9.8ns。The clock period for 75MHz is approximately 13.3 nanoseconds. Therefore, both CSHoldTime and CSSetupTime should be greater than or equal to 1, So they can be configured to 3 (1) dataValidTime=2，Registers DLLACR and DLLBCR are used to configure the valid data time in communication, with the unit being nanoseconds. (2) columnspace = 3，which is the width of the low-order column address. For this HyperRAM, it uses row and column addresses for access, with a column address width of 3 bits. (3) enableWordAddress = true，this parameter is configured whether the 2-byte addressable function is enabled. Once enabled, HyperRAM will be accessed using a 16-bit data format. (4) AWRSeqIndex = 1，this parameter is the index of the write timing sequence in the LUT. (5) AWRSeqNumber =1，this parameter configures the number of sequences for AHB write commands. (6) ARDSeqIndex = 0，this parameter is the index of the read timing sequence in the LUT. (7) ARDSeqNumber =1，this parameter configures the number of sequences for AHB write commands. (8) enableWriteMask = true，this parameter is used to set whether to drive the DQS bit as a mask when writing to external devices via FlexSPI. This feature is used for address alignment when accessing data widths of 16 bits. 3.4 LUT table configuration Below is a code example of the LUT table configuration for HyperRAM read and write timing. const uint32_t customLUT[CUSTOM_LUT_LENGTH] = { /* Read Data */ [4 * PSRAM_CMD_LUT_SEQ_IDX_READDATA] = FLEXSPI_LUT_SEQ(kFLEXSPI_Command_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0xA0, kFLEXSPI_Command_RADDR_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x18), [4 * PSRAM_CMD_LUT_SEQ_IDX_READDATA + 1] = FLEXSPI_LUT_SEQ(kFLEXSPI_Command_CADDR_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x10, kFLEXSPI_Command_DUMMY_RWDS_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x07), [4 * PSRAM_CMD_LUT_SEQ_IDX_READDATA + 2] = FLEXSPI_LUT_SEQ(kFLEXSPI_Command_READ_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x04, kFLEXSPI_Command_STOP, kFLEXSPI_1PAD, 0x00), /* Write data */ [4 * PSRAM_CMD_LUT_SEQ_IDX_WRITEDATA] = FLEXSPI_LUT_SEQ(kFLEXSPI_Command_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x20, kFLEXSPI_Command_RADDR_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x18), [4 * PSRAM_CMD_LUT_SEQ_IDX_WRITEDATA + 1] = FLEXSPI_LUT_SEQ(kFLEXSPI_Command_CADDR_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x10, kFLEXSPI_Command_DUMMY_RWDS_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x07), [4 * PSRAM_CMD_LUT_SEQ_IDX_WRITEDATA + 2] = FLEXSPI_LUT_SEQ(kFLEXSPI_Command_WRITE_DDR, kFLEXSPI_8PAD, 0x04, kFLEXSPI_Command_STOP, kFLEXSPI_1PAD, 0x00), }; (1) We are using an 8-line differential HyperRAM, which is utilized on both edges of the clock, hence the number of data lines used for communication with external memory is kFLEXSPI_8PAD. (2) HyperRAM and HyperFlash are memory products designed based on the HyperBus&#8482; interface specification by Cypress Semiconductor. This operand is defined in the specification, therefore the read operation operand is fixed at 0xA0, and the write data operand is fixed at 0x20. (3) CADDR_DDR column address: Since the number of bytes transferred in one transmission must be a multiple of 8, if the row and column addresses you provide exceed the maximum rows and columns of a specific size HyperRAM, FlexSPI will automatically set the higher bits to 0. The table above shows that the lower 16 bits are the column address, with 3 valid bits, and the upper 13 bits are reserved for compatibility and need to be set to 0. Therefore, the timing parameter for the column address here needs to be filled with 16, i.e., 0x10. (4) RADDR_DDR row address: As shown in the figure, if the FLSHxxCR1[CAS] bit is not zero, then the FlexSPI peripheral will split the actual mapped Flash Address (i.e., the memory's own offset address) into a row address FA[31:CAS+1] and a column address [CAS:1] for transmission during transfer timing. For word-addressable flash devices, the last bit of the address is not needed because the flash is read and programmed in two-byte units. FlexSPI considers one word as two bytes; thus, if alignment to two bytes is required, one less bit address is needed. The sum of row and column addresses should be one bit less. W956D8MBYA has 64Mbit, which is 2^26; with 3 bits for the column address, theoretically, 26-1-3=22 bits are needed for the row address to access the entire HyperRAM. Then, align it to 8 bits; otherwise, FlexSPI will pad zeros at the lower bits, which would not be the address we want to access. Therefore, the parameter is 0x18, i.e., 24 bits. 4. Experimental Verification We can use simple AHB read and write operations to verify whether this HyperRAM is functional. The code is as follows. for (i = 0; i < sizeof(s_psram_write_buffer); i++) { s_psram_write_buffer[i] = i; } memcpy((uint32_t*)(EXAMPLE_FLEXSPI_AMBA_BASE), s_psram_write_buffer, sizeof(s_psram_write_buffer)); memcpy(s_psram_read_buffer,(uint32_t*)(EXAMPLE_FLEXSPI_AMBA_BASE) , sizeof(s_psram_read_buffer)); if (memcmp(s_psram_read_buffer, s_psram_write_buffer, sizeof(s_psram_write_buffer)) == 0) { PRINTF("AHB Command Read/Write data successfully !\r\n"); }   When your serial port prints "AHB Command Read/Write data successfully!", it indicates that your FlexSPI connection to the HyperRAM is functioning properly.

1. RS485 hardware connection RS-485 is a multiple drop communication protocol in which the LPUART transceiver's driver is three-stated unless LPUART is driving. The transmitter can uses the RTS_B signal to enable the driver of a transceiver. The polarity of RTS_B can be configured by firmware to match with the polarity of the transceiver's driver enabling signal. The following figure shows the receiver enabling signal asserted. This connection can also connect RTS_B to both DE and RE_B. The transceiver's receiver is disabled when the uart transmitter is sending char. A pullup can pull RXD to a non-floating value during this time. You can refine this option further by operating LPUART in Single-Wire mode, freeing the RXD pin for other uses.     When the uart transmits character via TXD pin, the RTS_b signal is asserted automatically, after the RS-485 transceiver, the urat transmitter can drive the differential signals Y/Z. When the uart dose not transmit character, the RTS_b signal is unasserted, so the RS-485 transceiver is in tr-state, the differential signal Y/Z is NOT driven by this RS-485 transceiver. For receiver part of the RS-485 transceiver, if the RTS_b sigbal is connected to the RE_b pin of receiver of RS-485 transceiver directly or via an inverter depending on the required logic of the RS-485 transceiver , when the uart transmits character, the receiver of  RS-485 transceiver is disabled, the RO pin of the RS485 is in tri-state, so a pull-up resistor is required on the RO pin and the RXD pin of LPUart can not receive any character from it’s own transmitter.  The RTS_B signal can function as hardware flow control, but note the application uses RTS_b signal to control RS485 enabling instead of hardware flow control. )   2. RTS_b pin assigmnet.   For the uart module of MCXN family, the FCx_P0 is RXD pin of UARTx module, the FCx_P1 is TXD pin of UARTx module, the FCx_P2 is RTS_b of UARTx module. For MCXN94x family, the P1_8 pin can function as FC4_P0 or RXD pin of UART4; the P1_9 pin can function as FC4_P1 or TXD pin of UART4; the P1_22 pin can function as FC4_P2 or RTS_b pin of UART4 with setting up PORT1_PCR22[MUX] bits as decimal 3;   3)software 3.1 pin assignment void BOARD_InitPins(void) {     /* Enables the clock for PORT1: Enables clock */     CLOCK_EnableClock(kCLOCK_Port1);       const port_pin_config_t port1_8_pinA1_config = {/* Internal pull-up/down resistor is disabled */                                                     kPORT_PullDisable,                                                     /* Low internal pull resistor value is selected. */                                                     kPORT_LowPullResistor,                                                     /* Fast slew rate is configured */                                                     kPORT_FastSlewRate,                                                     /* Passive input filter is disabled */                                                     kPORT_PassiveFilterDisable,                                                     /* Open drain output is disabled */                                                     kPORT_OpenDrainDisable,                                                     /* Low drive strength is configured */                                                     kPORT_LowDriveStrength,                                                     /* Pin is configured as FC4_P0 */                                                     kPORT_MuxAlt2,                                                     /* Digital input enabled */                                                     kPORT_InputBufferEnable,                                                     /* Digital input is not inverted */                                                     kPORT_InputNormal,                                                     /* Pin Control Register fields [15:0] are not locked */                                                     kPORT_UnlockRegister};     /* PORT1_8 (pin A1) is configured as FC4_P0 */     PORT_SetPinConfig(PORT1, 8U, &port1_8_pinA1_config);       const port_pin_config_t port1_9_pinB1_config = {/* Internal pull-up/down resistor is disabled */                                                     kPORT_PullDisable,                                                     /* Low internal pull resistor value is selected. */                                                     kPORT_LowPullResistor,                                                     /* Fast slew rate is configured */                                                     kPORT_FastSlewRate,                                                     /* Passive input filter is disabled */                                                     kPORT_PassiveFilterDisable,                                                     /* Open drain output is disabled */                                                     kPORT_OpenDrainDisable,                                                     /* Low drive strength is configured */                                                     kPORT_LowDriveStrength,                                                     /* Pin is configured as FC4_P1 */                                                     kPORT_MuxAlt2,                                                     /* Digital input enabled */                                                     kPORT_InputBufferEnable,                                                     /* Digital input is not inverted */                                                     kPORT_InputNormal,                                                     /* Pin Control Register fields [15:0] are not locked */                                                     kPORT_UnlockRegister};     /* PORT1_9 (pin B1) is configured as FC4_P1 */     PORT_SetPinConfig(PORT1, 9U, &port1_9_pinB1_config);       //* PORT1_22 (pin L4) is configured as FC4_P2 with ALT3*/       const port_pin_config_t port1_22_pinC3_config = {/* Internal pull-up/down resistor is disabled */                                                        kPORT_PullDisable,                                                        /* Low internal pull resistor value is selected. */                                                        kPORT_LowPullResistor,                                                        /* Fast slew rate is configured */                                                        kPORT_FastSlewRate,                                                        /* Passive input filter is disabled */                                                        kPORT_PassiveFilterDisable,                                                        /* Open drain output is disabled */                                                        kPORT_OpenDrainDisable,                                                        /* Low drive strength is configured */                                                        kPORT_LowDriveStrength,                                                        /* Pin is configured as FC4_P1 */                                                        kPORT_MuxAlt3,                                                        /* Digital input enabled */                                                        kPORT_InputBufferEnable,                                                        /* Digital input is not inverted */                                                        kPORT_InputNormal,                                                        /* Pin Control Register fields [15:0] are not locked */                                                        kPORT_UnlockRegister};        /* PORT1_9 (pin B1) is configured as FC4_P1 */        PORT_SetPinConfig(PORT1, 22U, &port1_22_pinC3_config); }   The   //P1_22 function as RTS_b signal void RTS_b_init(LPUART_Type *base) {  base->MODIR |=LPUART_MODIR_TXRTSE(1); //                   (((uint32_t)(((uint32_t)(x)) << LPUART_MODIR_TXRTSE_SHIFT)) & LPUART_MODIR_TXRTSE_MASK)   }   4)uart timing tested by scope   Conclusion: From the above scope screen shot, you can see that when the uart transmitter sends char, the RTS_b signal becomes low, so it can function as RS485 transceiver enabling signal.  

MCUXN947 Security Configuration (Secure Boot + Lifecycle)   1. Introduction This application note aims to guide developers on configuring Secure Boot and Lifecycle on the MCXN947 microcontroller. The goal is to ensure security during mass production, prevent code theft and tampering, and allow for secure firmware updates. By following this document, developers can better understand and implement best practices for secure boot and firmware updates. 2. Implementation Overview 2.1 Secure Boot (SB) Introduction The Secure Binary (SB) container brings secure and easy way to upload or update firmware in embedded device during either the manufacturing process or end-customer's device lifecycle. An SB file is a command-based firmware update image. The SB file can be considered a script (commands and data), with the ROM acting as the interpreter. The ROM supports version 3.1 of the SB image format. The SB container in version 3.1 (SB3.1) uses the latest cryptographic algorithms to ensure the authenticity and confidentiality of the carried firmware. The boot time and security level, which fit the best for the required use case, control the various available security configurations. The digital signature based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) ensures the authenticity of the SB3.1 container. The use of the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) in Cipher Block Chaining (CBC) mode ensures the confidentiality of the SB3.1 container. 2.2 Lifecycle Introduction The lifecycle state of a chip reflects its actual state and is used to guide how the chip protects its hosted assets at specific times. For example, when a project is completed, during mass production, or when the device is in use by the end customer, the chip's access permissions are much more restricted compared to the development stage. The MCXN947 microcontroller supports multiple secure lifecycle states. For detailed information, refer to the "Lifecycle States" chapter in the MCX Nx4x Security Reference Manual. Note that the lifecycle state is monotonic, meaning it can only increase, and access permissions become more restrictive. This document focuses on field configuration (In-field) to ensure security after deployment. 2.3 MCUXpresso Tool Introduction The MCUXpresso Security Configuration Tool is a GUI-based application that simplifies the generation and configuration of bootable executable files on NXP MCUs. This tool can be used to generate SB3.1 files and deploy MCU security configurations. 3. Implementation Steps 3.1 Preparation Software Two image files: frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_red.s19 and frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_green.s19 MCUXpresso Secure Provisioning Tool v9.0 (SPT Tool) Blhost Hardware FRDM-MCXN947 Development Board 2 USB Type-C Cables Computer 3.2 Steps 3.2.1 Restore MCU to Default Configuration Power on MCU with ISP Mode Hold the ISP key and power on the MCU (POR). This document uses the ISP-USB interface, so connect the USB cable to J11 (HS-USB) port. Configure CMPA and CFPA to Default State Open the SPT Tool, create a new workspace, and select the corresponding chip. Configure as follows:   Program CMPA and CFPA OK -> Build image, Write image, to burn the configured default CMPA and CFPA into the MCU. Erase Entire Flash Connect the board's debugging interface MCU-link via USB. Select the debug probe in the SPT Tool. After a successful connection, use Erase to erase the entire flash. The chip is restored to its default state with no enabled security configurations. 3.2.2 Configure Secure Boot and Lifecycle for Field Mode (In-field)  Generate Secure Boot Keys Select the PKI management interface -> Generate Keys... -> Generate   Configure Image File Open the "Build image" interface and configure as follows: Boot: Select Encrypted (PRINCE/IPED) and signed Source executable image: Select the application image file frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_green.s19 Start address: 0x00000000 Firmware version: 1 Authentication key: Choose any one of the 4 options CUST_MK_SK: Click Random to generate a random number OEM seed: Click Random to generate a random number   Configure CMPA and CFPA Open CMPA and CFPA, and configure to enable security: Generate Configuration Files and Image File After configuration, build the image to generate CMPA, CFPA configuration files, and the SB3-formatted image file.   3.2.3 Program Application Program Configuration Files and Image File Open the "Write image" window, click "Write image" to program the configuration files and the SB image file.   Verify Application Power on the board again, and you should see the green LED flashing, indicating that the application is running normally. Then, hold the ISP key and perform a software reset of the board (note that this must be a software reset for the CFPA lifecycle configuration to take effect; a power-on reset will not activate the CFPA configuration). If the development is complete and in the production stage, and OTP is used to manage the lifecycle, any reset will detect the OTP configuration. At this point, secure boot is enabled, and the lifecycle is configured for field mode. Therefore, the chip no longer supports SWD interface debugging or reading flash content via ISP. To update the flash program, only a valid SB3 file can be burned. 3.2.4 Update Application Create a New SB3 File Compile the SDK example frdmmcxn947_led_blinky to generate a .bin file or s19 file. For all supported formats by the SPT tool, refer to the SPT manual. Here, use the s19 file format frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_red.s19. Open the SPT tool and use the workspace created for the first application image file. This will import the necessary keys directly. Then, import frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_red.s19. The Image firmware version should be greater than 0. Since we have not configured Set minimal firmware version, the minimum version is 0. This involves the anti-rollback feature, which will be explained in detail later. After configuration, hold the ISP key and power on the board to restart. Then, build the image to generate frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_red.sb. Program the New SB3 File Use the blhost receive-sb-file command to burn the file: blhost.exe -u 0x1fc9 0x014f receive-sb-file frdmmcxn947_led_blinky_red.sb After burning, restart the MCU. The red LED flashing indicates that the firmware update was successful. 3.2.5 Verify Security Features After enabling secure boot and configuring the lifecycle for field mode, the MCU cannot read the flash via SWD or ISP, ensuring the security of the customer's code against theft and tampering. To test if the configuration is successful, you can use the SWD and ISP interfaces. You should find that the SWD interface cannot connect, and while the ISP interface can connect, it cannot read or write. Note that before testing, you need to hold the ISP key and perform a software reset (not a power-on reset).     4. Notes By following this document, developers can learn how to configure and manage the security lifecycle on the MCXN947 microcontroller, ensuring the security and reliability of the device at different stages. Following the steps in this document can effectively achieve secure boot and operation, as well as firmware updates.  

Part 1: Introduction The eIQ Neutron Neural Processing Unit (NPU) is a highly scalable accelerator core architecture that provides machine learning (ML) acceleration. Compared to traditional MCUs like the Kinetis series and LPC series, the MCX N series marks the first integration of NXP's eIQ® Neutron NPU for ML acceleration. The eIQ Neutron NPU offers up to 42 times faster machine learning inference performance compared to a standalone CPU core. Specifically, the MCX N94 can execute 4.8G (150MHz * 4 * 4 * 2) INT8 operations per second. The eIQ Portal, developed in exclusive partnership with Au-Zone Technologies, is an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies vision based ML solutions development. Developers can create, optimize, debug and export ML models, as well as import datasets and models, rapidly train and deploy neural network models and ML workloads for vision applications. Hardware Environment: Development Board: FRDM-MCXN947 Display: 3.5" TFT LCD (Part Number: PAR-LCD-S035) Camera: OV7670 Software Environment: eIQ Portal: eIQ® ML Software Development Environment | NXP Semiconductors MCUXpresso IDE v11.9.0 Application Code Hub Demo：Label CIFAR10 image   Part 2: Basic Model Classification Training and Deployment The main content is divided into three steps: model training, model converting, and model deployment. 1. Dataset Preparation The dataset is prepared for a simple demonstration of binary classification between apples and bananas. The training set and test set are split in an 8:2 ratio. This follows the guidelines mentioned in section 3.3.2 Structured Folders Dataset of the eIQ_Toolkit_UG.pdf: The folder structure is as follows:   Note: The dataset needs to be organized according to the above folder structure. 2. Create Project and Import Dataset into eIQ a. Open the eIQ Portal tool, click on "CREATE PROJECT" -> "Import dataset". b. Import using "Structured folders" as follows: c. After clicking "IMPORT", select the project save path and click "Save".   3. Select Base Model for Training a. After the dataset is imported, click on "SELECT MODEL" and choose a base model. Modify the "Input Size" to 128, 128, 3.   b. Click on "Start Training". Note: Other parameters can be set according to your needs, and here the "learning rate", "batch size", and "epoch" are set to their default values. This is a demonstration and trains the model for one epoch. Users can train the model as needed to meet application requirements. Upon completion of training, it will look like this: If the accuracy does not meet the required standard, you can modify the training parameters or update the training data, and then click "CONTINUE TRAINING" to continue the training process. 4. Model Evaluation "VALIDATE" a. Click on "VALIDATE" to enter the model evaluation stage. Set the parameters including "Softmax Threshold", "Input Data Type", and "Output Data Type". Currently, the MCXN series Neutron NPU only supports the int8 data type. It should look like this:   b.After setting the parameters, click on "VALIDATE" and wait for the confusion matrix to be generated. The confusion matrix provides a clear view of how different categories are classified. In the diagram, the x-axis represents the predicted labels, while the y-axis represents the actual labels. You can see the correspondence between the predicted and actual labels for each image, as shown below:   5. Model Export to TensorFlow Lite a. Click on "DEPLOY", set the "Export File Type", "Input Data Type", and "Output Data Type". Turn on "Export Quantized Model", and then click on "EXPORT MODEL", as shown below: b. Set the location to save the model and click "Save". 6. Convert to TensorFlow Lite for Neutron (.tflite) a. After saving, click on "OPEN MODEL" to view the model structure, as shown below:   b Selecting the version of the Neutron Converter, ensure it is compatible with the SDK version.       c. Click on "Convert" and select "TensorFlow Lite for Neutron (.tflite)" as shown below:   d. Select the "Neutron target", click on "Convert", and set the save path. It should look like this:   7. Deploy the Model to the Label CIFAR10 Image Project This example is based on a machine learning algorithm supported by the MCXN947, which can label images captured from a camera and display the type of object at the bottom of the LCD. The model is trained on the CIFAR10 dataset, which supports 10 categories of images: "Airplane", "Automobile", "Bird", "Cat", "Deer", "Dog", "Frog", "Horse", "Ship", "Truck". a. Open MCUXpresso IDE and import the Label CIFAR10 Image project from the Application Code Hub, as follows:   b. Select the project, click on "GitHub link" -> "Next", as shown below:   c. Set the save path, click "Next" -> "Next" -> "Finish", as shown below:   d. After successful import, click on the "source" folder -> "model" folder, open "model_data.s", and copy the model file converted through eIQ into the "model" folder. Modify the name of the imported model (the name of the converted model) in "model_data.s", as shown below:   Note: The model imported into the project is the one obtained after multiple training sessions. e. Click on the "source" folder -> "model" folder -> open the "labels.h" file. Modify the "labels[]" array to match the order of labels displayed in the dataset in eIQ, as shown below:     f. Compile the project and download it to the development board.   Part 3: Experimental Results     Part 4: Summary By efficiently utilizing the powerful performance of the eIQ Neutron NPU and the convenient tools of the eIQ Portal, developers can significantly streamline the entire process from model training to deployment. This not only accelerates the development cycle of machine learning applications but also enhances their performance and reliability. Therefore, for developers looking to implement efficient machine learning applications on MCX N-series edge devices, mastering these technologies and tools is crucial.   We can also refer to the video for detailed steps. https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1SS411N7Hv?t=12.9 

An open-source PCB template for creating a custom shield for the FRDM-MCXN947  

The open source hardware community is please to offer ECAD schematic symbols for the new MCX A153 and MCX N947 microcontrollers.     The MCX A153 schematic library has the QFP32, QFN48 and LQFP64 variants. The MCX N947 schematic library has the BGA184 and LQFP100 variants. The symbols were generated using data from the MCUXpresso Pin Config tool to ensure accuracy. The pin names include all pin mux options to make it easy to see all available peripheral functions and further simplify the symbol for your own design purpose The symbol data is provided in the open source KiCad V7 format and is attached to this post. The symbols can be imported into commercial tools such as Altium Designer. Enjoy!  

An open-source PCB template for creating a custom shield for the FRDM-MCXA153  

The table below contains notable updates to the current release of the Reference Manual. The information provided here is preliminary and subject to change without notice. Affected Modules Issue Summary Description  Date MCXNx4x Pinout xlsx Attachment Defeature PF* pins Erroneous pinouts to PF* signals on ALT11 are removed.  Before:    After:    01 March 2024 System Boot ROM API Missing Boot Modes sections in ROM API chapter of System Boot New sections added: 15.3 Boot modes 15.3.1 Master boot mode Master boot mode supports the following boot devices: Internal flash memory boot FlexSPI NOR flash memory boot SPI 1-bit NOR recovery boot Secondary bootloader boot Table 229. Image offsets for different boot media   Boot media Image offset Internal flash memory boot 0h FlexSPI NOR flash memory boot 1000h SPI 1-bit NOR recovery boot 0h Secondary bootloader boot 0h   15.3.2 Secondary bootloader mode   The Secondary bootloader mode can be enabled by setting the CMPA[BOOT_SRC] as 2, the image loaded in the Bank1_IFR0 region (0x0100_8000 to 0x0100_FFFF) will be set as primary boot mode, and the secondary boot image will boot first after the device reset. The secondary boot image type can be plain, crc or signed image, but cannot set as the SB file.   Based on the CMPA[OEM_BANK1_IFR0_PROT](0x01004004[5:7]) setting, after the secondary boot image boot, the Bank1_IFR0 region will be configured with different MBC setting:   Lifecycle CMPA[OEM_BANK1_IFR0_PROT] Secondary bootloader mode MBC IFR0 recovery boot MBC Develop (0x3) NA GLABC0 GLBAC0 Develop2 (0x7), In-field (0xF), In-field Locked (0xCF), Field Return OEM (1F) 0 GLBAC4 GLBAC4   1 GLBAC4 2 GLBAC2 3 GLBAC6 4 GLBAC4 5 6 7     01 March 2024 Input Multiplexing (INPUTMUX) Clarification to CMP trigger input registers Update to the CMPx_TRIG Register function description for the following registers: CMP0_TRIG (260h), CMP1_TRIG (4EOh), and CMP2_TRIG (500h)  Before:  Function This register selects the CMPx trigger inputs   After: Function This register selects the CMPx SAMPLE/WINDOW input 01 March 2024  

Ⅰ、Introduction MCXA153 supports Read Out Protection (ROP) to protect code from reading from the device internal flash. This read out protection is a mechanism that allows user to enable different levels of protection in the system. This article explains in detail the configuration of the four ROP levels as well as the relationships between the different levels and the corresponding life cycles. Ⅱ、Four levels of Read Out Protection (ROP) The ROP is controlled by ROP_STATE bits, It is a 32-bit field stored in IFR0. It can be programmed by customer. Below is an introduction to the four ROP levels： 1.ROP_LEVEL0 ROP_STATE = 0xFFFF_FFFF (erased FLASH value), No ROP. Default for blank state. 2.ROP_LEVEL1 ROP_STATE = 0x0000_0003 Debug is disabled and unlocked, however it can be modified by customer, only limited debug mailbox commands are available. 3 .ROP_LEVEL2 ROP_STATE = 0x0000_0001 Debug is disabled and locked, it cannot be modified by customer, only limited debug mailbox commands are available. 4.ROP_LEVEL3 ROP_STATE = 0x0000_0000 Debug is disabled and locked, it cannot be modified by customer, no debug mailbox commands are available NOTE：Anything else = ROP3-like behavior (Debug disabled/Locked, ISP disabled). When the ROP level is 0, we can change the ROP level to 1, 2, and 3 by modifying the value of ROP_STATE in IFR0.When the ROP level is 1 or 2, we can change the ROP level to 0 through the ISP or DM-AP command. ROP level 3 is a one-way trip, so be careful. Below is a diagram of the relationship between the four levels：   Ⅲ、Life cycle and ROP When the chip is delivered to the customer from NXP, the life cycle is “NXP Provisioned”, we can also call it “OEM Open”, ”OEM Field return”, “NXP Field Return”. Because at this point, the chip is completely blank, and ISP and debugging functions are allowed. Of course, the ROP level at this point is 0. In this lifecycle, customers can develop and debug. During customer production, customers can impose certain restrictions on ISP and debugging based on their needs through ROP. Customers can choose between ROP level 1 or ROP level 2. The lifecycle at this point is “OEM Closed”. In this lifecycle, when there are some quality issues, customers can use the ISP or DM-AP command to erase the entire chip, or use the DM-AP command “set FA” to transfer the chip life cycle to the initial state, and return it to NXP’s factory for analysis without storing any IP assets. In some scenarios, customers may need to completely disable ISP and debugging functions. In that case, customers can set the ROP level to 3, and the chip’s lifecycle is “OEM No Return”. Please note that at this point, even NXP cannot restore the chip. So once there are some CQC issues, our factory cannot conduct further analysis. Also, we can transfer the chip to a ‘Bricked’ state in any lifecycle. During “Bricked” lifecycle, the chip will not be booted and will become a brick. The following table shows the relationship between life cycle and ROP: Ⅳ. Impact of different ROP levels on SWD and ISP The supported SWD and ISP commands are different at different ROP levels. From ROP0 to ROP3, fewer commands are supported. The following figure shows the commands supported by SWD and ISP at different ROP Levels. ISP commands supported in ROP0-ROP3:   SWD DM-AP commands supported in ROP0-ROP3:   Ⅴ、Configure ROP with SEC tool We can configure ROP through the MCUXpresso Secure Provisioning( SEC) tool. The MCUXpresso Secure Provisioning Tool is a GUI-based application provided to simplify generation and provisioning of bootable executables on NXP MCU devices. Hardware requirements: FRDM-MCXA153 board、Type-C USB cable Software requirements: MCUXpresso Secure Provisioning (MCUXpresso Secure Provisioning v8_b240110 or later.) Configuration steps: Step1. Create a new workspace After opening the software, click File->New Workspace, select "MCX A14x/A15x" -> MCXA153 -> Click "create". Refer to the following figure: Step2. Connection with Target Processor Enter ISP mode：Press and hold SW3(ISP key) => Press and release SW1 (RESET key) => Release SW3 Go to your workspace and click “Target”->Connection, the Connection with Target Processor window is displayed. Here, we make Connection through UART and select port and baud rate. Refer to the following figure: We can click "Test connection" to check whether the connection is successful. If the connection is successful, the result will display "OK". We can also see the life cycle of the current board: OEM Open. Refer to the following figure: Step3.Select Life Cycle Settings ROP Click on the toolbar "OEM Open" According to the requirements, select the appropriate ROP, in this case ROP 2. NOTE: Use ROP 3 with caution. Refer to the following figure: Step4. Build image After completing the above operations, we need to load the .s19 or .hex file generated by MCUXpresso IDE into the Source executable image. After the file is loaded, the start address is automatically identified. If the start address is not 0x00000000, you cannot "built image". Then click on "built image". Refer to the following figure: After completing the built image, "SUCCECC: built image" will be displayed. Click "close". Refer to the following figure: Step5. Write image We can see that the required .bin file has been generated automatically in "write image", or we can import the corresponding .bin file we wrote by "import". The Image path file will be automatically loaded. Clicking "write image" will pop up to confirm, and then click "ok" to run the script automatically. After the file is successfully written, the message "SUCCESS: write image" is displayed. Refer to the following figure: Step6. Check When we complete the configuration of ROP 2, we can check the status of registers through "PFR configuration". The used registers cannot be read out and unknown is displayed, as shown in the following figure: Finally, by pressing the RESET key on the board to exit ISP mode. At this point, the board has entered ROP 2, debug is disabled. The method of entering other ROP levels is the same. So how do we get back to the other ROP levels? ROP 2 state debugging is disabled, even the IDE cannot operate, we can only use ISP command and SWD command to operate. The SEC tool integrates SWD bulk erase command to return to ROP 0. However, we can also use the Blhost software to use ISP command, enter the ISP mode, enter “blhost -p comxx -- flash-erase-all” and return to ROP 0. Next, we'll look at using the SWD bulk erase command. Click on the toolbar "Dbg": The Select Debug Probe window is displayed. Refer to the following figure: Select “Probe: ”and click “erase”. After the erase succeeds, the following message is displayed: Flash mass erase succeeded! So we've successfully returned to ROP 0. Ⅶ、Summary ROP function protects the security of the chip, users can set different levels of ROP according to the requirements of their own applications. Using MCUXpresso Secure Provisionin simplifies the ROP configuration process. Configuring different ROPs requires modifying the status bits of ROP_STAT and ROP_STAT_DP in CMPA. The SEC tool helps us automate this work through a GUI interface.                               

FRDM-MCXA153 FRDM-MCXN947    Hardware & Software To do this, surely you have to download the next software. MCU Link JTAG/SWD Debug Probe | NXP Semiconductors MCUXpresso IDE for NXP MCUs | Linux, Windows and MacOS | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors About the hardware. FRDM-MCXN947 FRDM-MCXA153 MCU Link Firmware update. We will need the firmware to update the LPC55s69 on the board, the MCU Link firmware version 2.263 is compatible with the MCX. You may need the EVK connected to the computer under DFU mode, in the schematic of the EVK does not mention the DFU but has the named jumper of ISP [JP21] MCX - N or [JP8] MCX - A, sure you put the LPC55s69 in ISP, not the MCX, review the schematic below. MCX - N MCX - A When you have installed this version on your computer, go to the locations. ROOT: C:\nxp\MCU-LINK_installer_2.263\scripts Then open the CMD prompt console and run the script for CMSIS. The console asks if you have the appropriate jumper, if yes click enter again. If everything is right the message successfully will appear. Then in the MCUXpresso, you can see the debugger probe. Happy Debugging.

Abstract   This Knowledge Base text is intended to be an introduction for the MCX A14x/15x Architecture. Therefore, the content that is presented is described in a simplified way.   Contents 1. Introduction  2. Bus and Memory Architecture  3. MCX N vs MCX A series  4. MCXA SoC Power Domain Configuration 5. Clock Tree  6. Life Cycle and ROP State  7. Closing remarks    1.    Introduction   The MCX is the new MCU for NXP generic-purposes microcontrollers. Its portfolio offers a comprehensive selection of Arm® Cortex®-M based MCUs offering expanded scalability with breakthrough product capabilities simplified system design, and a developer-focused experience thought the widely adopted MCUXpresso suite of software and tools. Particularly, the MCXA series MCUs expands the MCX Arm® Cortex®-M33 product offerings with multiple high-speed connectivity, operating up to 96 MHz, serial peripherals, timers, analog and low power consumption. This device has following target applications: Consumer and industrial IoT Industrial Communications Smart Metering Automation and Control Sensors The following figure shows a top-level organization of the modules within the chip organized by functional category. Figure 1. Features block diagram   2.    Bus and Memory Architecture   The memory system of the device includes SRAM, ROM, internal flash, and external memory. The following figure shows the Bus matrix block diagram of this chip. Where there are three bus initiators (CM33, DMA and USB FS) which to access to different slave ports thought a Multilayer AHB bus matrix. ROM, Flash and RAMX0/1 share the same slave port. RAMA0/1 share a second slave port. And the third slave port is used to access to the peripherals.   Figure 2. Bus matrix block diagram   The Bus matrix block diagram has de following features: CM33 Max speed is 96MHz Does not include MPU, FPU, DSP and Trustzone Cache 4KB LPCAC on CM33 code bus 8-way, 2-set-associative design based on 256-byte superpages. The access to flash can be cached. Write through Flash Up to 128KB flash. Line buffer and prefetch buffer IFR0 sector0 is CMPA region Memory Block Checker (MBC) is used to control the access permission Swap RAM SRAM is divided into Code TCM and System TCM: CTCM: Mapped to CM33 code bus space RAM X0: 8 KB 32-bit RAM RAM X1: 4 KB 32-bit RAM Can only be used as code RAM when LPCAC is disabled. STCM: Mapped to CM33 system bus space: RAM A0: 8 KB 32+7-bit ECC RAM RAM A1: 16 KB 32bit RAM Execute permission is configurable Remap When remap is enabled, the access to RAM X0, will be remapped to the end of system RAM   3.    MCX N vs MCX A series   The MCX N series have feature-rich on-chip accelerators and peripheral sets. Aimed at applications that need higher performance and fast features. The MCX A series have several device options for a wide range of applications. Provides coverage for all applications requiring microcontrollers in entry-level target products. The following table summarizes the main features of the MCX A and the MCX N series to compare their differences. Table 1. Feature Comparison between MCX N and MCX A series Description MCXN94x MCXA14x/15x Comments System 2x DMA3, CRC, 2x WWDT, SPC, SCG, EIM, ERM, INTM, EWM, SYSCON, WUU, CMC, VBAT 1x DMA3, CRC, WWDT, SPC, SCG, CMC, VBAT, EIM, ERM, SYSCON, WUU - MRCC in MCXA SYSCON is used to control peripherals’ clock select, clock divider and clock gating. - SPC and SCG programming model is forward compatible with MCXN. Security S50, PKC, PUF, TRNG, SM3, 2x GDET, Tamper, eFuse, ITRC, 2x CDOG, LVD/HVD, ROP (Read out protection), 1x CDOG, GLIKEY   Clocking 2x PLL, FRO144M, FRO12M, OSC48M, OSC32K, FRO16K FRO192, FRO12M, OSC48M, FRO16K - OSC48M min. frequency is reduced to 8MHz. Communications USB FS, 10x LP_FLEXCOMM,  2x FlexCAN, 2x SAI, 2x I3C, FlexIO, 2x EMVSIM USB FS, 2x LPSPI, 3x LPUART, LPI2C, I3C - LPSPI/LPUART/LPI2C are compatible with LP_FLEXCOMM. FIFO depth in MCXA is 4, and MCXN is 8. - I3C is new version in MCXA. It is compatible with MCXN - USB FS doesn’t support USB DCD in MCXA. High Speed Interface USB HS, FlexSPI, SDHC, ENET, eSPI, SPI Filter LPSPI (LP_FlexCOMM) LPSPI   Timers 2x FlexPWM, 2x QDC, 5x Ctimer, SCT, uTimer, OS Timer, RTC, 2x LPTMR, MRT 1x FlexPWM, 1x QDC, 3x Ctimer, SCT, uTimer, OS Timer, Wakeup Timer,  LPTMR - FlexPWM and Ctimer support up to 192MHz clock - 3 Sub Modules in FlexPWM of MCXA - QDC is a new design, but compatible with MCXN Analog 2x 16bit ADC, 3x DAC, 3x CMP, 3x OPAMP, VREF, TSI 1x 12bit ADC, 2x CMP - The ADC MCXA is single ended ADC, with single sample/hold circuit. Supports up to 4Msps in 12bit mode. Regulators DCDC, SYS_LDO, CORE_LDO, VBAT, SRAM_LDO OD/SD/MD RUN Mode CORE_LDO, SRAM_RET_LDO   Power Mode RUN Mode: OD/SD/MD LP Mode: Sleep/DS/PD/DPD/VBAT RUN Mode: SD/MD LP Mode: Sleep/DS/PD/DPD   IO 6 rails, 124 GPIO, 100M/50M/25M IO 2 rails, ~52 GPIO, 50M/25M IO High Drive IO, 5V Tolerant IO   NEW MODIFIED       New and modified features are highlighted. And as it can be seen, most of the features of the MCX A are compatible with the MCX N.   4.    MCXA SoC Power domain configuration   The following figure introduce in a simplified way the Power Architecture block diagram of the MCX A. Where it can be seen that consist in three power supplies (VDD, VDD_ANA and VDD_USB) to power system and peripherals.   Figure 3. Power Architecture   VDD is the main supply which powers SYSTEM Domain, PMC, LDO_CORE and IO. At the same time CORE_MAIN Domain is supplied by LDO_CORE. VDD_ANA supplies ADC. And VDD_USB supplies USB FS PHY. Power Architecture has the following features: Run Mode SD mode with 1.1V VDD_CORE, 96MHz max. MD mode with 1.0V VDD_CORE, 48MHz max. Low Power Mode Sleep Mode DS Mode PD Mode CORE_MAIN domain and RAM are retained in different voltage DPD Mode. CMC and SPC control the LP mode, which is compatible with MCX N RAM Retention 3 RAM retention groups, which can be retained independently RAM X0 and RAM X1 RAM A0 RAM A1 All RAM can be retained down to DPD mode RAM retention control logic is implemented in SPC Power Sequence VDD and VDD_ANA must be ramp up same time with same level Voltage Monitors POR on VDD LVD and HVD on VDD LVD on VDD_CORE VDD_USB detector The following figure shows the Power Mode Transition block diagram. After POR the chip enters in Reset, when it exits from Reset the chip enters Active Mode. By performing Active Mode, it is able to enter all Low Power Modes. In Sleep and Deep Sleep Modes, it is possible to return directly to Active Mode. Meanwhile, to exit from Deep Power Down Mode, a Reset must be performed. Figure 4. Power Modes Transition   5.    Clock Tree   The following Figure shows a high level of Clock Architecture block diagram. In the left of the block diagram there are the on-chip clock sources, meanwhile in the right there is the distribution of the clock signals that clocking the systems and peripherals of the chip. The SCG controls FRO192M, FRO12M and SOSC clock sources. VBAT implements the 16 kHz internal clock source. And the MRCC provides on-chip modules their own dedicated MRCC bits for clock gating, reset control and configuration options. Figure 5. Clock Architecture The Clock Architecture has the following features: Clock Source FRO192M. Outputs 192/96/48MHz FRO12M. Outputs 12MHz and 1MHz. SOSC. Supports 8~50MHz FRO16K. Output 16.384KHz Clock Management Overall clock architecture is same with MCXN SCG and VBAT control clock generators MRCC in SYSCON controls clock mux and clock divider of the system and peripherals.   6.    Life Cycle and ROP State The following Table summarizes the Life Cycle State model and the Read Out Protection (ROP), which are designed to protect customer code and data from reading from the device internal flash. There are different levels of protection in the system, so that access to the on-chip flash and use of ISP can be restricted. Also, the life cycle state of the device determines the debug access and ISP command availability. Table 2. Life Cycle and ROP Life Cycle State ROP State Debug Port Status Debug Mail Box Command ISP Command NXP_PROVISIONED OEM_OPEN OEM_FIELD_RETURN NXP_FIELD_RETURN ROP0  ROP_STATE = 0xFFFF_FFFF  ROP_STATE_DP = 0xFFFF_FFFF - Disabled by default - Enabled by Bootloader Full command OEM_CLOSED ROP1    ROP_STATE = 0x0000_0003    ROP_STATE_DP = 0x0000_0003 - Disabled by default - Not enabled by Bootloader - Debug configure register is not locked Reduced command ROP2    ROP_STATE = 0x0000_0001    ROP_STATE_DP = 0x0000_0001 - Disabled by default - Not enabled by Bootloader - Debug configure register is locked Reduced command OEM_NO_RETURN ROP3    ROP_STATE = 0x0000_0000    ROP_STATE_DP = 0x0000_0000 - Disabled by default - Not enabled by Bootloader - Debug configure register is locked No command BRICKED Other value - Disabled by default - Not enabled by Bootloader - Debug configure register is locked No command   NXP_BLANK and NXP_FAB are NXP states that are not available for customers. NXP_PROVISIONED, OEM_OPEN, OEM_FIELD_RETURN and NXP_FIELD_RETURN are initial customer development states after leaving NXP manufacturing. OEM_CLOSED is the customer in-field application state, with ROP protection. OEM_NO_RETURN is the customer in-field application state, with ROP protection which prevents use of field return. And finally, BRICKED is the end-of-life state to prevent device use.   7.    Closing remarks   The MCX A series is based on the Arm Cortex-M33 operating at up to 96 MHz. It is scalable and easily migrated between N and A series given that peripherals and memories are very similar. The main on-chip memories are a Non-Volatile Flash memory with ECC and a RAM with ECC and Self-Test. Enhanced peripherals are designed with specific use cases in mind. This gives the applications a lot of focus on what they need. Improved Read Out Protection is built into the hardware designed to protect customer code and data from unauthorized readings. This device provide great flexibility and multiple options for the user to achieve low-power consumption with memory retention. Comprehensive serial communications included in the MCX A allow to interact with various components in customer applications. The analog integration selection within the MCX A also provides real-time response to the outside world, including ADC, CMP and temperature sensor. Utilize MCUXpresso software and tools to optimize, ease and help accelerate your embedded system development with a development suite that includes device configuration tools, drivers and middleware, multiple IDEs and a secure provisioning tool.