My Inquiry
My Account
Microchip Technology AT86RF215-ZU
- Part No.:
- AT86RF215-ZU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
AT86RF215-ZU.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX 802.15.4 48VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:468
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
AT86RF215-ZU from Microchip Technology (acquired Atmel) is a dual-band sub-1GHz/2.4GHz IEEE 802.15.4g/802.15.4-2015 transceiver with two independent RF systems, supporting MR-FSK, MR-OFDM, MR-O-QPSK, and O-QPSK PHYs across 389.5–510 MHz, 779–1020 MHz, and 2400–2483.5 MHz bands, and delivering -123 dBm sensitivity at 6.25 kb/s and +14.5 dBm TX output power at 900 MHz - deployed in smart metering gateways requiring simultaneous band monitoring.
For engineers reviewing the AT86RF215-ZU datasheet, AT86RF215-ZU pinout, AT86RF215-ZU application, or AT86RF215-ZU equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated dual-band I/Q interface behavior, confirmed SPI register mapping, and real-world smart utility network deployment context - all grounded in the official Atmel-42415E datasheet.
Technical Context
The AT86RF215-ZU integrates two fully independent transceivers: RF09 (sub-1GHz) and RF24 (2.4GHz), each paired with dedicated baseband cores (BBC0/BBC1) supporting multi-rate modulation schemes including MR-FSK (up to 400 ksymbol/s), MR-OFDM (up to 2400 kb/s), and MR-O-QPSK (up to 1000 kb/s). Each radio features its own 2 kB frame buffer, integrated LNA, PA, PLL, and automatic filter calibration.
It implements a dual LVDS I/Q interface: one 13-bit TX path (TXDP/TXDN, TXCLKP/TXCLKN) and two independent RX paths (RXDP09/RXDN09 for sub-1GHz; RXDP24/RXDN24 for 2.4GHz), both operating up to 4 MHz sampling rate. Control is exclusively via SPI (MOSI/MISO/SCLK/SELN), with IRQ signaling and RSTN reset support - no UART or parallel interface.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Bands | 389.5–510 MHz, 779–1020 MHz, and 2400–2483.5 MHz - enables global smart metering compliance across ETSI TS 102 887-1, IEEE 802.15.4g-2012, and IEEE 802.15.4-2015. |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -123 dBm @ 6.25 kb/s MR-O-QPSK - ensures reliable reception in low-SNR utility infrastructure environments with high path loss. |
| TX Output Power | +14.5 dBm @ 900 MHz band - supports extended range in sub-GHz mesh networks without external PA. |
| Noise Figure | <5 dB for both sub-1GHz and 2.4GHz receivers - preserves signal integrity during simultaneous dual-band listening. |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - compatible with battery-powered and mains-powered metering endpoints using single-supply design. |
| Deep Sleep Current | 30 nA - enables multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries in wake-on-RF event architectures. |
| Package | 48-pin QFN, 7×7 mm², 0.5 mm pitch - surface-mountable with thermal paddle (AVSS) for RF stability and thermal management. |
Pinout & Package
AT86RF215-ZU uses a 48-pin lead-free QFN package (7×7 mm², 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal paddle connected to AVSS. Pin functions are validated per Atmel-42415E datasheet Section 2.1–2.2.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP09 / RFN09 | Differential RF port (sub-1GHz) | 50 Ω balanced interface for 389.5–1020 MHz bands; requires external balun or differential antenna matching. |
| RFP24 / RFN24 | Differential RF port (2.4 GHz) | 50 Ω balanced interface for 2400–2483.5 MHz band; isolated from sub-GHz path for true concurrent operation. |
| TXDP / TXDN / TXCLKP / TXCLKN | LVDS TX I/Q interface | 13-bit differential data/clock inputs for external baseband processing; supports up to 4 MHz sampling. |
| RXDP09 / RXDN09 / RXDP24 / RXDN24 | LVDS RX I/Q interfaces | Two independent 13-bit differential outputs - one per transceiver - enabling simultaneous dual-band I/Q streaming. |
| MOSI / MISO / SCLK / SELN | SPI control interface | 4-wire slave interface for full register access, frame buffer read/write, and state machine control (no address lines required). |
| FEA09 / FEB09 / FEA24 / FEB24 | RF frontend control outputs | Digital GPIOs to drive external LNAs/PAs per band; non-differential, logic-level compatible with 1.8 V CMOS. |
| RSTN | Active-low hardware reset | Asynchronous reset input; must be held low ≥100 ns to trigger chip-wide register initialization and TRXOFF state entry. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual independent transceivers | RF09 (sub-1GHz) and RF24 (2.4GHz) operate simultaneously with separate baseband cores (BBC0/BBC1), enabling concurrent spectrum monitoring and hybrid network bridging. |
| Integrated analog front-end | On-chip LNA, PA, TX/RX switch, PLL loop filter, and AGC eliminate ≥8 external RF components - reduces BOM cost and layout complexity. |
| IEEE 802.15.4 MAC acceleration | Hardware frame filtering, FCS generation/verification, automatic ACK, and CCA with auto-transmit reduce host MCU load in mesh routing nodes. |
| True random number generator | Dedicated on-die entropy source compliant with NIST SP 800-90B - enables secure key generation for AES-128 encryption in firmware updates and commissioning. |
| Low-power operational modes | Deep sleep (30 nA), RX listen (6–28 mA depending on RPC mode), and TX (62 mA @ +14.5 dBm) support energy-constrained battery deployments. |
Applications
| Smart Metering Gateway | Utility Mesh Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Aggregating consumption data from hundreds of endpoint meters across multiple frequency bands (e.g., 868 MHz EU and 2.4 GHz for local HAN). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-band transceiver performing simultaneous receive on sub-1GHz (long-range WAN) and 2.4GHz (short-range HAN), with hardware-accelerated IEEE 802.15.4g MAC layer. Use Value: Eliminates need for two discrete radios; reduces gateway bill-of-materials and PCB area while enabling time-synchronized multi-band channel scanning. |
Use Scenario: Relay node in an ETSI-compliant AMI network, forwarding packets between legacy 868 MHz meters and newer 2.4 GHz devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-duplex capable transceiver executing store-and-forward bridging with hardware frame filtering and automatic ACK handling per band. Use Value: Enables seamless interoperability across regional PHY variants without software translation - critical for cross-border utility deployments. |
| Industrial Sensor Hub | Smart Grid Monitoring Unit |
Use Scenario: Collecting vibration, temperature, and current data from distributed industrial assets in noisy factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sub-1GHz receiver (RF09) operating in MR-O-QPSK mode at 6.25 kb/s for robust low-data-rate telemetry; 2.4GHz (RF24) used for local diagnostics and OTA updates. Use Value: -123 dBm sensitivity ensures reliable link budget in electrically hostile settings; deep sleep (30 nA) extends battery life beyond 5 years. |
Use Scenario: Real-time grid health monitoring using synchronized phasor measurements across substations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-band timing reference node leveraging TCXO input (26 MHz) and CLKO output to distribute precise clock signals to adjacent sensors. Use Value: Integrated TCXO interface and low-jitter CLKO output enable sub-microsecond timestamp alignment across distributed units - meeting IEEE C37.118 synchrophasor requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-band sub-GHz/2.4GHz transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Si4468-B1B-C2 | Single-band (sub-GHz only); no 2.4 GHz capability; higher max TX power (+20 dBm); proprietary EZRadioPRO API. | Cannot replace AT86RF215-ZU in dual-band or IEEE 802.15.4g-compliant systems; suitable only for pure sub-GHz star networks. | Select only if application requires >+14.5 dBm output and does not need concurrent 2.4 GHz operation or standard-compliant MAC offload. |
| CC1352P-2RSMR | Single SoC with Arm Cortex-M4F + integrated sub-GHz/2.4 GHz radios; lower TX power (+14 dBm); smaller 7 mm × 7 mm QFN but no external baseband I/Q interface. | Lacks dedicated 13-bit LVDS I/Q streams; relies on internal DSP for PHY processing - limits custom waveform development. | Prefer when system integration favors MCU+radio consolidation and does not require external FPGA/DSP-based signal processing. |
Compared with Si4468-B1B-C2 and CC1352P-2RSMR, the AT86RF215-ZU uniquely delivers true hardware-isolated dual-band operation with independent I/Q interfaces - essential for advanced spectral analysis, cognitive radio, or hybrid protocol gateways where sub-GHz and 2.4 GHz paths must be processed separately.
Availability
AT86RF215-ZU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering gateways, utility mesh nodes, and industrial sensor hubs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing for regulatory-certified designs.
Supply support for AT86RF215-ZU includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology acquired Atmel in 2016 and maintains full product support, documentation, and qualification for the AT86RF215 family - a leader in certified wireless SoC solutions for industrial and utility markets.
The AT86RF215-ZU belongs to Microchip's IEEE 802.15.4g/802.15.4-2015-compliant transceiver product line, engineered specifically for smart utility networks demanding simultaneous multi-band operation, hardware MAC acceleration, and ultra-low-power wide-area connectivity.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the AT86RF215-ZU in a smart metering system?
The AT86RF215-ZU serves as a dual-band transceiver enabling simultaneous communication across sub-1GHz (e.g., 868 MHz EU band) and 2.4 GHz ISM bands. In smart metering, it acts as a gateway radio that receives data from legacy sub-GHz meters while managing local HAN traffic over 2.4 GHz - all within a single IC. Its hardware-accelerated IEEE 802.15.4g MAC, frame filtering, and automatic ACK handling significantly reduce host MCU overhead in AT86RF215-ZU-based designs.
Does the AT86RF215-ZU support true simultaneous transmit and receive on both bands?
The AT86RF215-ZU supports simultaneous independent reception on sub-1GHz and 2.4 GHz bands - confirmed by its dual RX I/Q interfaces (RXDP09/RXDN09 and RXDP24/RXDN24). However, it does not support concurrent transmission on both bands; TX operation is time-multiplexed between RF09 and RF24. The datasheet explicitly states "simultaneous operation of sub-1GHz and 2.4GHz transceiver" refers to independent RX capability and rapid band switching - not full-duplex TX/RX on both bands at once. AT86RF215-ZU's architecture prioritizes low-latency RX diversity over simultaneous dual-band TX.
What are the voltage regulator requirements for AT86RF215-ZU?
The AT86RF215-ZU requires external 3.0 V supplies on EVDD (analog) and DEVDD (digital), which must be shorted at the PCB level. Internally, it generates regulated 1.8 V analog supplies (AVDD0 for sub-1GHz, AVDD1 for 2.4 GHz) and a 1.8 V digital supply (DVDD), each requiring dedicated 1 µF decoupling capacitors placed near their respective pins. These internal regulators are enabled/disabled automatically during sleep modes - users must not connect AVDD0/AVDD1 to external rails or short them together, as specified in Section 2.2.3 of the AT86RF215-ZU datasheet.
Can the AT86RF215-ZU be used without an external microcontroller?
No - the AT86RF215-ZU is a transceiver-only device with no embedded processor core. It requires an external microcontroller (e.g., Microchip SAM4 series or similar) to manage SPI configuration, frame buffer handling, interrupt servicing (IRQ), and higher-layer protocol stacks (e.g., 6LoWPAN, Thread, or proprietary mesh). While it includes hardware MAC acceleration and a true random number generator, all control logic, memory management, and application-layer execution reside externally. AT86RF215-ZU operates strictly as a peripheral under host MCU direction.
What crystal or oscillator is required for AT86RF215-ZU operation?
The AT86RF215-ZU requires a 26 MHz reference clock supplied either via a TCXO connected to the TCXO pin (with XTAL2 grounded) or a 26 MHz crystal between TCXO and XTAL2 pins. The device does not support other frequencies or internal RC oscillators. This 26 MHz clock feeds both PLLs (RF09 and RF24), ensuring precise frequency synthesis across all supported bands. Stability and phase noise of the external source directly impact AT86RF215-ZU's EVM and adjacent channel rejection - TCXO is recommended for outdoor or temperature-varying utility deployments.
AT86RF215-ZU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx Only
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4, General ISM < 1GHz
- Protocol:
- -
- Modulation:
- FSK, OFDM, O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 389.5MHz ~ 510MHz, 779MHz ~ 1.02GHz, 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 2.4Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 16dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -123dBm
- Memory Size:
- -
- Serial Interfaces:
- SPI
- GPIO:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 5mA ~ 33mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 62mA ~ 64mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-VQFN (7x7)
AT86RF215-ZU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT86RF215-ZU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT86RF215-ZU on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AT86RF215-ZU reliable?
The price and inventory of AT86RF215-ZU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT86RF215-ZU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT86RF215-ZU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT86RF215-ZU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT86RF215-ZU?
AT86RF215-ZU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT86RF215-ZU order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AT86RF215-ZU?
For technical support, including AT86RF215-ZU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT86RF215-ZU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT86RF215-ZU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT86RF215-ZU products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AT86RF215-ZU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT86RF215-ZU?
All AT86RF215-ZU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT86RF215-ZU, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AT86RF215-ZU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT86RF215-ZU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AT86RF215-ZU Tags
-
ESP32-D0WD-V3
Espressif Systems
-
ESP8266EX
Espressif Systems
-
ESP32-S3
Espressif Systems
-
NRF24L01P-R7
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
NRF24L01P-R
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
ESP32-U4WDH
Espressif Systems
-
DA14531-00000OG2
Renesas
-
ESP32-C6FH4
Espressif Systems
-
DA14531-00000FX2
Renesas
-
NRF24L01P-T
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
NRF52810-QCAA-R
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
ESP32-S3FN8
Espressif Systems
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
