My Inquiry
My Account
Microchip Technology ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 64QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,713
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is an integrated 8-bit AVR microcontroller with a fully embedded 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee transceiver, 128 KB Flash, 16 KB SRAM, and hardware AES encryption. It operates from 1.8–3.6 V, achieves 16 MIPS at 16 MHz, and supports ultra-low-power Deep Sleep mode (<250 nA). It targets battery-powered wireless sensor nodes in industrial automation and smart metering.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR datasheet, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR pinout, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR application, or ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR equivalent, key selection factors include its monolithic RF+MCU integration, -100 dBm RX sensitivity, 3.5 dBm TX output, hardware-assisted MAC, and 64-pin QFN package with dedicated RF ground pins (AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN).
Technical Context
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR combines an enhanced RISC AVR core with a fractional-N synthesizer-based 2.4 GHz transceiver supporting DSSS modulation per IEEE 802.15.4-2011. Its hardware MAC handles auto-acknowledge, auto-retry, and 32-bit symbol timing, while the integrated AES engine enables secure frame encryption/decryption.
It features dual crystal oscillators: a 16 MHz for transceiver timing and a 32.768 kHz for low-power RTC and MAC symbol counter. Power management includes six software-selectable sleep modes, with Deep Sleep retaining only watchdog timer, MAC symbol counter, and 32.768 kHz oscillator functionality.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | AVR 8-bit RISC with 135 instructions; most execute in one cycle for deterministic real-time control. |
| Flash Memory | 128 KB ISP Flash with read-while-write capability-enables firmware updates without halting operation. |
| Transceiver Data Rates | 250 kb/s, 500 kb/s, 1 Mb/s, and 2 Mb/s-supports both legacy ZigBee and high-throughput mesh applications. |
| RX Sensitivity | -100 dBm at 250 kb/s-ensures robust link budget in noisy industrial environments. |
| TX Output Power | Up to +3.5 dBm-improves range and reliability without external PA. |
| Supply Current (Deep Sleep) | <250 nA @ 25°C-extends battery life to years in intermittent-sensing applications. |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V with internal voltage regulators-simplifies power design and supports single-cell Li-ion or coin-cell operation. |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +125°C industrial grade-qualified for harsh environments including factory floors and outdoor metering. |
Pinout & Package
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR uses a 64-pad QFN package (RoHS-compliant, fully green) with an exposed metal center pad internally connected to AVSS for mechanical stability and thermal dissipation. The pad must be soldered to PCB ground plane; leaving it unconnected risks mechanical detachment.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O port | Direct connection to 100 Ω differential antenna interface; requires balun for single-ended 50 Ω systems. |
| AVSS_RFP / AVSS_RFN | Dedicated RF ground terminals | Isolate RF analog ground return paths from digital noise-critical for achieving -100 dBm sensitivity. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz crystal oscillator inputs | Drive the transceiver's fractional-N synthesizer; require low-parasitic layout to maintain frequency accuracy. |
| TST / CLKI | Test enable / clock input | TST enables programming mode; CLKI allows external clock injection-both must be externally tied (TST→AVSS, CLKI→DVSS if unused). |
| EVDD / DEVDD | External analog/digital supply pins | Accept 1.8–3.6 V input; feed internal LDOs that generate regulated AVDD/DVDD-bypass capacitors required per datasheet. |
| PG0 / PF3–PF7 | GPIO with alternate functions | Support DIGx, ADC, JTAG (TMS/TCK/TDI/TDO), and RF control signals like AMR and antenna diversity switching. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware AES-128 Engine | Enables full-frame encryption/decryption in real time without CPU overhead-required for ZigBee Pro and Secure Boot implementations. |
| Integrated 32.768 kHz Oscillator | Drives asynchronous Timer/Counter2 and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter during Deep Sleep-maintains precise timing at sub-1 µA current. |
| On-chip Voltage Regulators | Generate clean AVDD/DVDD from single 1.8–3.6 V supply-eliminates need for external LDOs and reduces BOM count. |
| 38 Programmable I/O Lines | Includes 8-channel 10-bit ADC with differential gain options, two USARTs, SPI, and 2-wire interface-supports sensor interfacing and host communication simultaneously. |
| Hardware MAC Acceleration | Offloads frame filtering, CRC-16, SFD detection, and auto-ACK handling-reduces MCU intervention and improves protocol stack determinism. |
| Antenna Diversity Support | Uses PG1 (DIG1) and PF2 (DIG2) to control external RF switches-enhances link reliability in multipath environments without software latency. |
Applications
| Smart Utility Metering | ZigBee Home Automation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Wireless gas/water/electricity meters transmitting consumption data hourly via mesh network to concentrator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full Function Device (FFD) node performing sensor acquisition, AES-encrypted frame assembly, and multi-hop routing using hardware MAC. Use Value: Ultra-low Deep Sleep current (<250 nA) enables 10+ year battery life; -100 dBm sensitivity ensures reliable reception in buried or shielded meter enclosures. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered door/window sensors and light switches communicating with ZigBee coordinator in residential HVAC/lighting control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reduced Function Device (RFD) endpoint executing periodic wake-up, sensor polling, and encrypted payload transmission. Use Value: Integrated transceiver eliminates external RF IC and matching components; hardware AES meets ZigBee SE 1.1 security requirements out-of-box. |
| Industrial Wireless Sensor Network | 6LoWPAN Edge Node |
Use Scenario: Temperature/vibration monitoring nodes on rotating machinery in factory settings, reporting to gateway via TSCH or beacon-enabled networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: FFD node running IEEE 802.15.4e TSCH stack with precise 32-bit symbol counter synchronized to 32.768 kHz oscillator. Use Value: 125°C operating range tolerates proximity to motors/transformers; hardware auto-retry maintains link integrity during EMI bursts. | Use Scenario: IPv6-capable sensor node bridging legacy analog sensors to IoT cloud via 6LoWPAN over IEEE 802.15.4. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: RFD endpoint compressing IPv6 headers and encrypting payloads using integrated AES before transmission. Use Value: 16 KB SRAM accommodates 6LoWPAN stack + application buffers; 2 MB/s high-data-rate mode accelerates firmware OTA updates. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 2.4 GHz wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR | 256 KB Flash, same 64-pin QFN, backward-compatible register map; adds 2.4 GHz RF front-end support for higher TX power. | Preferred for larger firmware images or future-proofing; lacks integrated 32.768 kHz oscillator for Deep Sleep timing. | Select when >128 KB Flash is needed and external 32 kHz crystal is acceptable. |
| CC2652R1FIPNR | ARM Cortex-M4F core, 352 KB Flash, integrated RF with better RX sensitivity (-104 dBm), but requires external DC-DC and more complex power sequencing. | Better suited for Bluetooth LE + ZigBee dual-mode or TI-RTOS-based stacks; no native AVR toolchain compatibility. | Choose for higher processing throughput or BLE coexistence; avoid if migrating existing AVR codebase. |
Compared with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR, ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR offers expanded memory while maintaining pin and software compatibility, whereas CC2652R1FIPNR delivers superior RF performance and dual-protocol flexibility at the cost of toolchain migration and increased system complexity.
Availability
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart utility metering, industrial wireless sensor networks, and ZigBee home automation requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle deployments.
Supply support for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR 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 continues to support the AVR wireless portfolio. It specializes in microcontrollers, analog, FPGA, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR belongs to Atmel's "Wireless AVR" product line, designed specifically for low-power, standards-compliant 2.4 GHz mesh networking in resource-constrained embedded systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum transmit output power of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR delivers up to +3.5 dBm TX output power in its highest setting. This value is measured at the RFP/RFN differential port under 3.3 V supply and room temperature conditions. The actual radiated power depends on antenna efficiency and matching network design, and regulatory limits (e.g., FCC Part 15.247) must be observed in final certification. ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR supports programmable power levels to optimize range versus battery life.
Does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR support IEEE 802.15.4-2011 compliance?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR is fully compliant with IEEE 802.15.4-2011, including mandatory PHY and MAC layer features such as DSSS modulation, 32-bit symbol counter, hardware CRC-16, SFD detection, and auto-acknowledge. Its transceiver implements all required packet formats and timing parameters. ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR also supports ZigBee PRO and RF4CE profiles built atop this foundation.
Can the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR operate from a single 3.0 V lithium coin cell?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR operates across 1.8–3.6 V, making it compatible with standard CR2032 (3.0 V nominal) and BR2032 (2.8 V) coin cells. Its Deep Sleep current of <250 nA at 25°C enables multi-year operation. However, peak TX current reaches 14.5 mA, so the coin cell's pulse load capability and internal resistance must be verified-low-ESR cells or supplemental bulk capacitance are recommended for reliable transmission.
What crystal configurations are required for the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR requires two crystals: a 16 MHz fundamental-mode crystal across XTAL1/XTAL2 for transceiver timing, and a 32.768 kHz tuning-fork crystal across TOSC1/TOSC2 for low-power RTC and MAC symbol counter. Load capacitance for the 16 MHz crystal is typically 12 pF; for the 32.768 kHz crystal, total shunt capacitance must not exceed 15 pF. Both crystals must be placed close to their respective pins with minimal trace length and isolation from digital noise.
Is the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR pin-compatible with the ATMEGA1281?
No, the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR is not pin-compatible with the ATMEGA1281. While it shares architectural similarities and register-level compatibility for many peripherals, it replaces Port A and Port C with RF-specific pins (RFP, RFN, AVSS_RFP, AVSS_RFN) and adds TST/CLKI. Its 64-pin QFN footprint differs from ATMEGA1281's 64-pin TQFP, and critical RF grounding requirements mandate different PCB layout practices. ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR is a purpose-built wireless SoC, not a drop-in upgrade.
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4
- Protocol:
- 6LoWPAN, Zigbee®
- Modulation:
- O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 2Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 3.5dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -100dBm
- Memory Size:
- 128kB Flash, 4kB EEPROM, 16kB SRAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- I2C, JTAG, SPI, USART
- GPIO:
- 38
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 12mA ~ 12.5mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 8mA ~ 14.5mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-QFN (9x9)
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR 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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR?
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR 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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR?
For technical support, including ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR 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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR, 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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZFR 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…
