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Microchip Technology AT86RF232-ZX
- Part No.:
- AT86RF232-ZX
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
AT86RF232-ZX.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 32QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:484
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Product details
Overview
AT86RF232-ZX from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 2.4GHz IEEE 802.15.4-compliant radio transceiver IC designed for ZigBee®, RF4CE, and 6LoWPAN systems. It integrates differential RF front-end, 128-byte frame buffer, hardware AES-128 accelerator, and MAC-level CSMA-CA/ACK support. Operates from 1.8V to 3.6V with -100dBm sensitivity and programmable output power (-17dBm to +3dBm), enabling coin-cell-powered wireless sensor nodes in residential automation.
For engineers reviewing the AT86RF232-ZX datasheet, AT86RF232-ZX pinout, AT86RF232-ZX application, or AT86RF232-ZX equivalent, key selection considerations include its 32-pin QFN package, SPI-only interface requiring only two GPIOs beyond /SEL/SCLK/MOSI/MISO, integrated voltage regulators for analog/digital domains, antenna diversity support via DIG1/DIG2, and hardware-accelerated IEEE 802.15.4-2011 features including FCS, CCA, RSSI, and LQI.
Technical Context
The AT86RF232-ZX implements an O-QPSK modulator with half-sine pulse shaping and 32-length spreading, paired with a fractional-N PLL supporting frequency hopping. Its analog baseband includes LNA, PPF, BPF, limiter, and ADC, feeding digital RX BBP for time/frequency synchronization and frame buffering.
Digital subsystem features dedicated hardware accelerators for AES-128 encryption, true random number generation, automated ACK/CSMA-CA/retransmission, and address filtering - all accessible via SPI without CPU intervention. The device supports dual supply domains (EVDD/DEVDD) and internal 1.8V regulators (AVDD/DVDD), with RF pins RFP/RFN configured for 100Ω differential impedance and DC-coupled common-mode control (0.9V in TX, 20mV in RX).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band | 2.4GHz ISM band (2400–2483.5MHz); fully compliant with IEEE 802.15.4-2011 PHY layer |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -100dBm at 250kbps; enables robust link budget in low-power mesh networks |
| Output Power Range | -17dBm to +3dBm programmable in 1dB steps; supports range/power trade-off tuning |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8V to 3.6V; internal regulators generate stable 1.8V AVDD/DVDD from single supply |
| Current Consumption | SLEEP = 0.4µA, TRX_OFF = 330µA, RX_ON = 11.8mA, BUSY_TX = 13.8mA (max power) |
| Frame Buffer | 128-byte SRAM; stores full IEEE 802.15.4 PSDU + PHR + metadata (LQI/ED/RX_STATUS) |
| Interface | 4-wire SPI (SCLK/MOSI/MISO/SEL) + IRQ, SLP_TR, /RST, CLKM; no external parallel bus required |
Pinout & Package
AT86RF232-ZX uses a 32-pin low-profile QFN package (5 × 5 × 0.9 mm³) with exposed paddle electrically connected to AVSS for thermal and electrical grounding. Pin layout separates analog (AVSS/AVDD/XTAL1/XTAL2/RFP/RFN) and digital (DVSS/DVDD/SCLK/MOSI/MISO/IRQ) domains per RF design best practices.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O | 100Ω differential port for TX/RX; requires balun for single-ended antenna; DC common-mode = 0.9V (TX), 20mV (RX) |
| /RST | Digital input | Active-low hardware reset; internal pull-up enabled in P_ON state |
| SLP_TR | Digital input | Multi-function control: sleep/wakeup enable, TX start trigger; active-high |
| /SEL | Digital input | Active-low SPI chip select; internal pull-up enabled in P_ON state |
| IRQ | Digital output | Configurable interrupt (active high/low); also serves as Frame Buffer Empty indicator |
| DIG1 / DIG2 | Digital outputs | DIG1 controls antenna diversity RF switch; DIG2 provides RX/TX frame timestamping or IRQ_2 |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | Analog I/O | Crystal oscillator interface (16MHz typical); XTAL1 accepts external clock if needed |
| CLKM | Digital output | Master clock output (configurable frequency); usable as MCU clock source or timing reference |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| IEEE 802.15.4-2011 Hardware Acceleration | FCS computation, Clear Channel Assessment (CCA), RSSI/ED/LQI measurement offloaded from MCU |
| MAC-Level Automation | Hardware CSMA-CA, automatic ACK generation, retransmission, and address filtering reduce host processing load |
| AES-128 Security Engine | Stand-alone 128-bit AES accelerator accessible in parallel with PHY operations (except SLEEP) |
| Antenna Diversity Support | DIG1/DIG2 pins drive external RF switch to select optimal antenna path during RX, improving link reliability |
| Ultra-Low-Power States | 0.4µA SLEEP current enables multi-year battery life in coin-cell applications like smart sensors |
Applications
| Smart Home Sensor Node | ZigBee Remote Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity/motion sensor transmitting data every 30 seconds to a ZigBee coordinator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full PHY/MAC transceiver handling O-QPSK modulation, frame assembly, CCA, ACK, and AES encryption. Use Value: 0.4µA SLEEP current extends CR2032 battery life beyond 5 years; integrated regulators eliminate need for external LDOs. | Use Scenario: RF4CE-compliant TV remote control requiring ultra-low latency and secure pairing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 2.4GHz transceiver executing RF4CE protocol stack with hardware-assisted AES-128 and fast wake-up (<0.4ms). Use Value: BUSY_TX = 13.8mA at +3dBm ensures reliable button-press response; DIG2 timestamping enables precise IR/RF sync. |
| Industrial Wireless Monitor | Healthcare Wearable Transmitter |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted gateway collecting data from 10+ IEEE 802.15.4 end devices in factory environment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability transceiver using antenna diversity (DIG1/DIG2) to mitigate multipath fading near metal machinery. Use Value: -100dBm sensitivity and hardware LQI/ED enable adaptive channel selection; 32-pin QFN simplifies PCB layout in space-constrained enclosures. | Use Scenario: Disposable glucose monitor transmitting encrypted readings to smartphone via 6LoWPAN over BLE proxy. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Ultra-low-voltage transceiver operating down to 1.8V with integrated battery monitor (BATMON) for end-of-life detection. Use Value: EVDD/DEVDD dual-supply flexibility allows direct connection to primary cell; true RNG supports HIPAA-compliant key generation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 2.4GHz IEEE 802.15.4 transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| CC2531F256RHAR | Integrated 8051 MCU + 2.4GHz transceiver; higher active current (24mA RX); no antenna diversity pins | Requires embedded firmware development; better for standalone node designs needing local processing | Choose CC2531F256RHAR when on-chip MCU execution is preferred over external microcontroller architecture |
| JN5169-001-M00 | 32-bit RISC CPU + 2.4GHz transceiver; supports ZigBee PRO/HA; higher integration but larger 48-pin QFN package | Targets certified ZigBee HA products; includes flash bootloader and enhanced security suite | Choose JN5169-001-M00 for full-stack ZigBee certification requirements and larger memory footprint needs |
Compared with CC2531F256RHAR and JN5169-001-M00, the AT86RF232-ZX offers lowest system-level BoM cost due to minimal external components (crystal + capacitors + balun), smallest footprint (32-pin QFN), and lowest SLEEP current - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-constrained sensor endpoints where host MCU handles protocol stack.
Availability
AT86RF232-ZX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for residential automation, industrial wireless monitoring, and healthcare wearable transmitter applications requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for AT86RF232-ZX 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 support for legacy Atmel wireless products including the AT86RF232-ZX.
The AT86RF232-ZX belongs to Microchip's legacy 2.4GHz IEEE 802.15.4 transceiver product line, engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, low-BOM-cost wireless sensor networks in consumer and industrial markets.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the AT86RF232-ZX?
The AT86RF232-ZX is specified for commercial temperature operation from 0°C to +70°C. This range supports deployment in indoor residential and office environments, including smart thermostats, lighting controls, and PC peripherals. The device does not support extended industrial (-40°C to +85°C) or automotive temperature grades.
Does the AT86RF232-ZX require an external crystal oscillator?
Yes, the AT86RF232-ZX requires a 16MHz fundamental-mode crystal connected between XTAL1 and XTAL2 pins. The crystal must be rated for ±10ppm stability with appropriate load capacitance (typically 12pF). An external clock signal may be applied to XTAL1 instead, but crystal operation is the default and recommended configuration for IEEE 802.15.4 timing accuracy.
How does antenna diversity work on the AT86RF232-ZX?
Antenna diversity on the AT86RF232-ZX is implemented using DIG1 and DIG2 pins to control an external RF switch (e.g., SPDT switch). During receive mode, the transceiver evaluates signal quality from two antennas and asserts DIG1 to select the optimal path. DIG2 provides frame timestamping to synchronize diversity decisions with packet boundaries, improving reliability in multipath environments.
Can the AT86RF232-ZX operate from a single 3.3V supply?
Yes, the AT86RF232-ZX supports single-supply operation from 3.3V applied to DEVDD and EVDD. Its internal 1.8V regulators (AVDD/DVDD) automatically generate required analog/digital domain voltages. Bypass capacitors (100nF for AVDD/DVDD; 1µF for DEVDD/EVDD) must be placed close to respective pins to ensure stable regulation and low-noise RF performance.
What security features does the AT86RF232-ZX hardware support?
The AT86RF232-ZX includes a dedicated AES-128 hardware accelerator and true random number generator (TRNG). The AES engine operates in parallel with PHY functions (except in SLEEP state) and supports ECB/CBC modes via SPI. The TRNG feeds cryptographic key generation and is compliant with NIST SP 800-90A standards for entropy quality.
AT86RF232-ZX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4, General ISM > 1GHz
- Protocol:
- 6LoWPAN, Zigbee®
- Modulation:
- O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 250kbps
- Power - Output:
- 3dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -100dBm
- Memory Size:
- 128B SRAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- SPI
- GPIO:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 11.3mA ~ 11.8mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 7.2mA ~ 13.8mA
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-QFN (5x5)
AT86RF232-ZX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT86RF232-ZX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT86RF232-ZX 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 AT86RF232-ZX reliable?
The price and inventory of AT86RF232-ZX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT86RF232-ZX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT86RF232-ZX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT86RF232-ZX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT86RF232-ZX?
AT86RF232-ZX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT86RF232-ZX 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 AT86RF232-ZX?
For technical support, including AT86RF232-ZX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT86RF232-ZX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT86RF232-ZX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT86RF232-ZX 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 AT86RF232-ZX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT86RF232-ZX?
All AT86RF232-ZX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT86RF232-ZX, 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 AT86RF232-ZX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT86RF232-ZX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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