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Microchip Technology ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 64QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
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Product details
Overview
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU 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, supports 250 kb/s–2 Mb/s data rates, and delivers −100 dBm RX sensitivity with up to +3.5 dBm TX output. Used in battery-powered ZigBee sensor nodes and industrial wireless control systems.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU datasheet, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU pinout, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU application, or ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU equivalent, key selection criteria include integrated RF transceiver compliance with IEEE 802.15.4-2011, hardware MAC acceleration, ultra-low deep-sleep current (<250 nA), and QFN-64 package compatibility with antenna diversity support.
Technical Context
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU integrates an enhanced RISC AVR core with a fractional-N synthesizer-based 2.4 GHz transceiver supporting DSSS modulation, hardware CRC-16, auto-acknowledge, and 32-bit IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter. Its dual-oscillator system uses external 16 MHz and 32.768 kHz crystals for RF timing and low-power RTC operation.
It implements full hardware-assisted MAC layer functions including frame buffering (128-byte TX/RX), SFD detection, spreading/despreading, and antenna diversity control via PG1/PG2 and PF3/PF2. The analog frontend includes a 10-bit, 330 ks/s ADC with differential input and programmable gain, plus on-chip temperature sensing.
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 response. |
| Flash Memory | 128 KB ISP Flash with read-while-write capability enabling firmware updates without halting operation. |
| Transceiver Data Rates | 250 kb/s, 500 kb/s, 1 Mb/s, and 2 Mb/s - selectable per IEEE 802.15.4 PHY modes. |
| RX Sensitivity | −100 dBm at 250 kb/s - enables robust link budget in noisy industrial environments. |
| TX Output Power | Up to +3.5 dBm - sufficient for 100+ meter line-of-sight range with standard PCB antennas. |
| Deep Sleep Current | <250 nA @ 25°C - supports multi-year battery life in intermittent wake-up sensor applications. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.6 V with internal regulators - eliminates need for external LDOs in compact designs. |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +125°C - qualified for industrial and automotive under-hood edge-node deployments. |
Pinout & Package
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU is housed in a 64-pad QFN package (9 mm × 9 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad internally connected to AVSS. The package supports RoHS-compliant reflow assembly and requires soldering of the center paddle for mechanical stability and optimal thermal performance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O pair | Direct connection to balun or RF switch; requires impedance-matched 100 Ω differential routing. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz crystal oscillator interface | Drives RF transceiver PLL reference; must use low-parasitic layout to maintain ±20 ppm frequency stability. |
| TST / CLKI | Programming enable / clock input | TST must be pulled low for normal operation; CLKI allows external clock injection if XTAL not used. |
| AVSS_RFP / AVSS_RFN | Dedicated RF ground returns | Isolated analog grounds for RF section - must be routed separately from digital DVSS to prevent coupling. |
| PG1 / PG2 | Antenna diversity control outputs | Drive external RF switches (e.g., SW1/SW2 in Fig 4-2) to select between ANT0/ANT1 paths. |
| PE0 / PE1 | USART0 RXD0 / TXD0 | Full-duplex serial interface for host MCU communication or debug console output. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware AES-128 engine | Accelerates encryption/decryption for ZigBee SE and 6LoWPAN security without CPU overhead. |
| Integrated 32-bit MAC symbol counter | Provides precise IEEE 802.15.4 timing base for beacon synchronization and CSMA-CA backoff. |
| On-chip 32.768 kHz oscillator | Enables sub-1 µA real-time clock operation during deep sleep - critical for scheduled wake-ups. |
| 10-bit ADC with differential mode | Supports ratiometric sensor measurements (e.g., thermistors, strain gauges) with programmable gain up to 20×. |
| Hardware MAC assist (Auto-Ack, Auto-Retry) | Offloads link-layer reliability handling from firmware - reduces latency and improves throughput consistency. |
| 38 programmable I/O lines | Includes 8-bit ports B/D/E/F/G with alternate functions for timers, USARTs, SPI, TWI, and ADC inputs. |
Applications
| ZigBee Smart Sensor Node | Industrial Wireless Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity sensor reporting every 5 minutes to a ZigBee coordinator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full Function Device (FFD) executing ZigBee stack, managing RF channel access, and performing local ADC sampling. Use Value: Deep-sleep current <250 nA extends CR2032 battery life beyond 5 years; integrated AES secures OTA firmware updates. | Use Scenario: Remote I/O module monitoring machine vibration and controlling pneumatic valves in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ZigBee RFD node with hardware MAC offload and deterministic 10 ms polling interval using asynchronous timer T/C2. Use Value: −100 dBm RX sensitivity maintains link integrity near motors and VFDs; 125°C rating ensures reliability in enclosure-mounted deployments. |
| 6LoWPAN Border Router Endpoint | WirelessHART Field Device |
Use Scenario: IPv6-capable edge node bridging IEEE 802.15.4 mesh to Ethernet via external host processor. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power network processor handling 6LoWPAN header compression, fragmentation, and MAC layer framing. Use Value: Hardware CRC-16 and 128-byte frame buffers reduce host processing load; 2 Mb/s mode accelerates bulk sensor data upload. | Use Scenario: Self-powered pressure transmitter in hazardous area requiring intrinsic safety and time-synchronized mesh routing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: WirelessHART device implementing TDMA scheduling, channel hopping, and secure join procedure. Use Value: Integrated 32.768 kHz oscillator enables precise slot timing; hardware AES meets WirelessHART security certification requirements. |
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 RF core, added 2.4 GHz antenna diversity support, no 32.768 kHz oscillator. | Better suited for larger firmware stacks and dual-antenna installations; lacks integrated low-power RTC. | Select when code size exceeds 128 KB or antenna switching is mandatory; verify external RTC integration. |
| CC2652R1F | ARM Cortex-M4F core, Bluetooth 5.1 + IEEE 802.15.4 multi-protocol, higher TX power (+5 dBm), no integrated AES accelerator. | Requires external crypto library for ZigBee SE; better for Bluetooth coexistence or future protocol migration. | Choose for multi-protocol flexibility or higher RF output; accept software-based security implementation. |
Compared with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU, ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR offers more Flash and native antenna diversity but removes the 32.768 kHz oscillator needed for autonomous deep-sleep timing, while CC2652R1F provides ARM performance and multi-protocol support at the cost of increased BOM complexity and software crypto overhead.
Availability
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ZigBee sensor networks, industrial wireless control systems, and 6LoWPAN edge devices requiring stable component supply across long product lifecycles.
Supply support for ATMEGA128RFA1-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 support for the AVR wireless portfolio. The company specializes in microcontrollers, analog, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and IoT markets.
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU belongs to Atmel's legacy AVR Wireless family, 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-ZU?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU delivers up to +3.5 dBm TX output power in its highest setting, measured at the RFP/RFN differential port. This value is achievable across the full 1.8–3.6 V supply range and enables reliable communication over 100+ meters in open-field conditions with a properly matched PCB antenna. Actual radiated power depends on balun efficiency and PCB layout.
Does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU support hardware AES encryption?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU includes a dedicated hardware AES-128 engine compliant with FIPS-197. It performs full encryption/decryption cycles in under 100 clock cycles with zero CPU intervention, enabling secure ZigBee Smart Energy profile operations and authenticated 6LoWPAN packet processing without degrading real-time responsiveness of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU.
What crystal frequencies are required for the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU requires two external crystals: a 16 MHz crystal across XTAL1/XTAL2 for RF transceiver timing and system clock generation, and a 32.768 kHz crystal across TOSC1/TOSC2 for the low-power asynchronous timer and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter. Both crystals must meet specified load capacitance (12 pF for 16 MHz; ≤15 pF total for 32.768 kHz) to ensure timing accuracy and deep-sleep stability of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU.
How many I/O pins does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU provide?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU provides 38 programmable I/O lines distributed across Ports B, D, E, F, and G. Port A and Port C are omitted in this variant, consistent with its optimized RF-focused architecture. All I/O pins support internal pull-up resistors, multiple alternate functions (e.g., USART, SPI, ADC), and configurable drive strength - critical for noise-sensitive RF layout in the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU.
What is the deep-sleep current consumption of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU achieves <250 nA deep-sleep current at 25°C when configured with watchdog timer disabled, 32.768 kHz oscillator stopped, and all voltage regulators in retention mode. This ultra-low quiescent current enables multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries in wireless sensor applications, directly enabled by the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU's segmented power domain architecture and leakage-optimized process technology.
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- 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 ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-QFN (9x9)
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA128RFA1-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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU?
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA128RFA1-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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU?
For technical support, including ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA128RFA1-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 ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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