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Microchip Technology AT86RF233-ZU
- Part No.:
- AT86RF233-ZU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
AT86RF233-ZU.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 32QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,074
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Product details
Overview
AT86RF233-ZU from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a low-power 2.4GHz IEEE 802.15.4-compliant RF transceiver IC for ZigBee, RF4CE, 6LoWPAN, and ISM-band wireless sensor networks. It integrates MAC hardware acceleration, AES-128 encryption, true random number generation, and supports 250–2000 kb/s data rates with -101 dBm receiver sensitivity and programmable TX output from -17 to +4 dBm.
For engineers reviewing the AT86RF233-ZU datasheet, AT86RF233-ZU pinout, AT86RF233-ZU application, or AT86RF233-ZU equivalent, key selection considerations include its 32-pin QFN package, SPI interface with only two GPIOs required, ultra-low DEEP_SLEEP current (0.02 µA), integrated PLL for frequency hopping, and hardware-accelerated CSMA-CA, ACK, and FCS handling.
Technical Context
The AT86RF233-ZU implements a fully integrated RF-CMOS transceiver with a fast-settling PLL supporting 500 kHz channel spacing and frequency agility under 0.4 ms wake-up time. Its MAC accelerator handles automated acknowledgement, CSMA-CA retry, address filtering, and FCS validation in hardware.
It features dual voltage regulators (AVREG/DVREG), battery monitoring, crystal oscillator with CLKM output, and extended feature set including AES-128 encryption engine, true RNG, antenna diversity control, and high-data-rate modes up to 2000 kb/s - all operating across -40°C to +125°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band | 2.4 GHz ISM band (2400–2483.5 MHz), compliant with IEEE 802.15.4-2011 |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -101 dBm at 250 kb/s, enabling robust link budget in low-power mesh networks |
| TX Output Power | Programmable from -17 dBm to +4 dBm in 1 dB steps, supporting range vs. power trade-offs |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V with internal regulators - enables direct coin-cell (e.g., CR2032) operation |
| Deep Sleep Current | 0.02 µA, minimizing battery drain during extended idle periods in sensor endpoints |
| Data Rates | 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 kb/s PSDU rates - supports both legacy and high-throughput 802.15.4e modes |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +125°C, qualified for industrial and automotive under-hood environments |
Pinout & Package
AT86RF233-ZU is housed in a 32-pin, 5 mm × 5 mm × 0.9 mm low-profile QFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP). Pin functions are defined per Atmel-8351E-MCU_Wireless-AT86RF233_Datasheet_072014 Section 1.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDDANA / VDDDIG | Analog & digital supply rails | Separate 1.8–3.6 V inputs with internal regulation; decoupling required per datasheet layout guidelines |
| GND | Ground reference | Multiple GND pins (Pins 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32) ensure low-noise RF/DC return paths |
| ANT1 / ANT2 | RF antenna terminals | Differential RF I/O supporting antenna diversity; requires external matching network per application schematic |
| SCLK / MOSI / MISO / SS_N | SPI interface signals | Full-duplex SPI (mode 0, CPOL=0, CPHA=0) for register/frame buffer/AES SRAM access |
| IRQ_N | Interrupt output | Active-low asynchronous interrupt signaling state changes (RX start/end, TX complete, AES ready, etc.) |
| SLP_TR | Sleep/wake control | Direct hardware control of sleep states; <0.4 ms wake-up latency from DEEP_SLEEP to RX_ON |
| XIN / XOUT | Crytal oscillator terminals | Supports 16 MHz fundamental-mode crystal; internal load caps eliminate external capacitors |
| CLKM | Master clock output | Configurable prescaled clock output (e.g., 8 MHz, 4 MHz) for MCU synchronization or timing reference |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware MAC Acceleration | Offloads CSMA-CA, automatic ACK, retransmission, address filtering, and FCS check - reduces MCU firmware overhead and latency |
| AES-128 Encryption Engine | Dedicated on-chip cryptographic module with 128-bit key storage and fast SRAM-based data transfer - enables secure frame encryption without CPU involvement |
| True Random Number Generator | Entropy source compliant with NIST SP 800-90A; used for key derivation and nonce generation in security protocols |
| Smart LISTEN Mode | Reduces RX_ON current by 10–50% via adaptive duty cycling while maintaining packet detection capability |
| Integrated Battery Monitor | On-chip ADC measures supply voltage with ±3% accuracy; triggers IRQ_N when threshold crossed - enables autonomous battery management |
| Antenna Diversity Support | Hardware-controlled switching between ANT1/ANT2 based on RSSI/LQI - improves link reliability in multipath environments |
Applications
| Smart Home Sensor Node | ZigBee Lighting Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity/motion sensors transmitting data every 5–60 seconds to a ZigBee coordinator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 2.4 GHz transceiver handling PHY/MAC layer, with hardware-accelerated frame assembly, ACK, and AES encryption. Use Value: 0.02 µA DEEP_SLEEP current extends CR2032 battery life beyond 5 years; integrated regulators eliminate external LDOs. | Use Scenario: Wireless dimmer switches and LED driver modules requiring low-latency, bi-directional command/response in lighting networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: IEEE 802.15.4-compliant transceiver with sub-0.4 ms wake-up and hardware CSMA-CA for deterministic channel access. Use Value: Fast TX_ARET_ON mode ensures reliable command delivery with ≤3 retries; RSSI/LQI feedback enables adaptive transmit power control. |
| Industrial Wireless Sensor Network | RF4CE Remote Control |
Use Scenario: Factory-floor vibration, pressure, or valve position monitors deployed in harsh environments (-40°C to +125°C). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust RF transceiver with extended temperature qualification, integrated crystal oscillator, and desensitization support for EMI resilience. Use Value: -101 dBm sensitivity and programmable +4 dBm output maintain >100 m range in metal-rich settings; no external TCXO needed. | Use Scenario: Consumer IR-to-RF remotes for TVs, set-top boxes, and audio systems using RF4CE protocol stack. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-latency 2.4 GHz transceiver supporting RF4CE's 250 kb/s mandatory rate and optional 500 kb/s high-speed mode. Use Value: Hardware FCS, CCA, and ED enable compliant RF4CE channel scanning and packet validation; IRQ_N simplifies MCU event-driven polling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4 transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TI CC2531F256RHAR | Integrated 8051 MCU core; higher RX current (24.3 mA); no AES engine; 27-pin QFN | Requires full protocol stack implementation on-chip; less suitable for host-MCU architectures | Prefer when standalone SoC functionality is needed over external MCU integration |
| Silicon Labs EFR32MG1P132F256GM32 | ARM Cortex-M4 with 256 kB flash; +10 dBm TX power; supports Bluetooth LE + 802.15.4 dual-mode; 32-pin QFN | Higher BOM cost and power; targets multi-protocol gateways rather than cost-sensitive end nodes | Choose when future-proofing for multi-protocol support or embedded stack execution is required |
Compared with CC2531F256RHAR and EFR32MG1P132F256GM32, the AT86RF233-ZU delivers optimal balance of ultra-low sleep current, hardware MAC offload, and minimal external component count - making it ideal for resource-constrained, battery-operated 802.15.4 endpoints where MCU-hosted stacks dominate.
Availability
AT86RF233-ZU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart home sensor nodes, industrial wireless monitoring systems, and RF4CE remote controls requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant green packaging.
Supply support for AT86RF233-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 is a global semiconductor company delivering microcontrollers, analog, FPGA, and connectivity solutions with emphasis on reliability, longevity, and embedded system integration.
The AT86RF233-ZU belongs to Microchip's legacy Atmel wireless transceiver product line, designed specifically for ultra-low-power, standards-compliant 2.4 GHz IoT edge devices operating on coin cells or energy harvesting sources.
FAQ
What is the operating voltage range for the AT86RF233-ZU?
The AT86RF233-ZU operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V on both analog (VDDANA) and digital (VDDDIG) supplies. Internal voltage regulators stabilize core logic and RF sections, enabling direct connection to common coin-cell batteries like CR2032 without external DC-DC conversion. This wide input range supports flexible power architecture design in battery-constrained applications.
Does the AT86RF233-ZU support hardware AES encryption?
Yes, the AT86RF233-ZU includes a dedicated AES-128 hardware encryption engine with 128-bit key storage and fast SRAM-based data transfer. It performs encryption/decryption independently of the host MCU, reducing processing load and improving security protocol timing determinism. The AT86RF233-ZU AES module complies with IEEE 802.15.4 security requirements and supports counter mode (CTR) and cipher-block chaining (CBC) operations.
What is the minimum deep-sleep current consumption of the AT86RF233-ZU?
The AT86RF233-ZU achieves a deep-sleep current of 0.02 µA (20 nA) when configured in DEEP_SLEEP mode with all clocks and regulators disabled except for the wake-up circuitry. This ultra-low quiescent draw enables multi-year battery life in intermittent transmission applications such as wireless sensor nodes powered by CR2032 cells - a key differentiator versus competing transceivers with µA-range sleep currents.
How many pins does the AT86RF233-ZU package have, and what is its footprint?
The AT86RF233-ZU uses a 32-pin, 5 mm × 5 mm × 0.9 mm low-profile QFN package with an exposed thermal pad (EP). Its compact footprint supports high-density PCB layouts, and the pinout is optimized for minimal external components - requiring only a 16 MHz crystal, matching network, and decoupling capacitors. The package is RoHS-compliant and fully green.
Which IEEE 802.15.4 data rates does the AT86RF233-ZU support?
The AT86RF233-ZU supports four physical layer data rates: 250 kb/s (mandatory for IEEE 802.15.4-2003/2006), 500 kb/s, 1000 kb/s, and 2000 kb/s. These rates are implemented in distinct high-data-rate modes defined in the extended feature set, enabling scalable throughput for applications ranging from simple sensor reporting to high-bandwidth firmware updates - all within the same 2.4 GHz ISM band and regulatory compliance framework.
AT86RF233-ZU 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):
- 2Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 4dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -101dBm
- 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:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-QFN (5x5)
AT86RF233-ZU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT86RF233-ZU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT86RF233-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 AT86RF233-ZU reliable?
The price and inventory of AT86RF233-ZU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT86RF233-ZU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT86RF233-ZU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT86RF233-ZU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT86RF233-ZU?
AT86RF233-ZU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT86RF233-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 AT86RF233-ZU?
For technical support, including AT86RF233-ZU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT86RF233-ZU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT86RF233-ZU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT86RF233-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 AT86RF233-ZU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT86RF233-ZU?
All AT86RF233-ZU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT86RF233-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 AT86RF233-ZU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT86RF233-ZU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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