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NXP’s MCX FRDM Board Hands-On

Featuring the MCX-A and MCX-N

Check out NXP’s latest microcontroller boards. These boards of their new MCX-A and MCX-N microcontrollers. The form factor is what NXP calls Freedom (FRDM.)

The MCX line of microcontrollers, each with its unique set of features, caters to a wide range of projects. The MCX-A, a general-purpose microcontroller, is ideal for entry-level projects, while the high-performance MCX-N is designed for advanced AI/machine learning tasks. NXP recently started shipping the MCX-N, adding to its versatility and appeal.

The FRDM boards, with their various connection options, provide a high level of flexibility in design. NXP’s inclusion of an onboard simplifies the programming and debugging process, ensuring a smooth development experience. However, I did encounter some issues with the development environment. 

The VS Code install was not smooth, and some of the examples from NXP’s Application Hub would not load. The Eclipse-based MCUXpresso fared slightly better, but it refused to program the MCX-N board for some reason.

With onboard debuggers, versatile connectivity options, and an affordable price range, these boards are an exciting option for any embedded designer. 

Fan of making things beep, blink and fly. Created AddOhms. Writer for Hackster.io News. Freelance electronics content creator for hire! KN6FGY and, of course, bald.

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