Microchip Technology AT88SC6416CRF-MY1

Overview

AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 from Microchip Technology (acquired Atmel in 2016) is a contactless 13.56 MHz CryptoRF EEPROM memory IC optimized for secure RF smart cards and tamper-resistant data storage. It delivers 64 kilobits of user memory across sixteen 512-byte zones, ISO/IEC 14443-2 & -3 Type B compliance, and integrated 82 pF tuning capacitance - enabling single-coil antenna operation in access control and e-ID applications.

For engineers reviewing the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 datasheet, AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 pinout, AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 application, or AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 100,000-write-cycle endurance, −25°C to +85°C industrial temperature range, 64-bit mutual authentication protocol, and zone-level password/key access control with anti-tearing protection.

Technical Context

The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 implements a dedicated RF interface compliant exclusively with ISO/IEC 14443-2:2001 and -3:2001 Type B signaling, including Slot-MARKER anticollision and 106 kbps half-duplex communication with 2-byte CRC_B error detection. It draws power entirely from the RF field - no battery or external supply required.

Its security architecture supports three distinct communication modes: Standard (clear data), Authentication (encrypted passwords + MAC), and Encryption (end-to-end encrypted data + MAC). Each of the 16 user zones can be independently secured using four key sets, eight 24-bit password pairs, and programmable access rights stored in a 2-Kbit configuration zone.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 is supplied in an R Module package: 2-terminal, XOA2-style RF smart card module (5.06 mm × 8.00 mm, 0.38 mm thick), with AC1 and AC2 serving as coil connection terminals. No VDD/VSS pins - power is harvested from the RF field.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar contactless secure memory applications.

Compared with NTAG 424 DNA and SLE 78 CLP, the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 uniquely combines ISO/IEC 14443-B compliance, integrated tuning capacitance, 64-kbit EEPROM, and hardware-enforced zone-level security - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-free, high-assurance smart card applications requiring proven reader interoperability.

Availability

AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for physical access control systems, electronic identity cards, and public transport fare media requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 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 manufacturing continuity for the CryptoRF family.

The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 belongs to Microchip's CryptoRF secure memory product line - designed specifically for contactless, battery-free, high-security applications in government ID, access control, and transit systems where ISO/IEC 14443-B interoperability and hardware-enforced cryptography are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1?

The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 is a contactless 13.56 MHz secure EEPROM IC implementing ISO/IEC 14443-2 and -3 Type B protocols. Its primary function is to provide tamper-resistant, authenticated, and encrypted data storage in battery-free smart cards - with 64 kbit user memory, 2 kbit configuration space, and hardware-accelerated 64-bit mutual authentication. The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 operates entirely from harvested RF energy and requires no external power source.

Does the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 support ISO/IEC 14443 Type A?

No, the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 is compliant only with ISO/IEC 14443-2 and -3 Type B specifications. However, its RF interface is tolerant of Type A signals - meaning exposure to Type A modulation will not damage the device or cause latch-up, though it will not respond to Type A commands. The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 must be used with Type B readers for functional operation.

What is the purpose of the integrated 82 pF capacitor in the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1?

The integrated 82 pF ±10% tuning capacitor enables the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 to form a resonant LC circuit with an external antenna coil - eliminating the need for discrete capacitors in the RF front-end. This simplifies PCB or tag layout, reduces bill-of-materials cost, and improves manufacturing yield. The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 relies on this integrated capacitance to achieve optimal power harvesting and data communication at 13.56 MHz.

How is security enforced across different memory zones in the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1?

Security is enforced per zone using independently configurable access rights stored in the 2-kbit configuration memory. Each of the 16 user zones can be assigned unique Read/Write passwords, authentication keys, and encryption keys - with separate attempt counters and anti-tearing settings. The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 validates credentials before granting access, and zone-level fuses lock configuration data after personalization to prevent tampering.

What is the transport password for initial configuration of the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1?

The factory-default transport password for accessing the configuration memory of the AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 is $70 BA 2E (hexadecimal). This secure code must be presented using the Check Password command before programming AFI, anticollision response, keys, or passwords. Once personalization begins, the transport password may be overwritten - so it should be used only during initial setup. The AT88SC6416CRF-MY1 ships with all security features disabled, requiring this step to activate protected functionality.