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Microchip Technology ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 64QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,206
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Product details
Overview
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 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, delivering 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 monitoring and smart home gateways.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 datasheet, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 pinout, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 application, or ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 equivalent, key selection criteria include its monolithic 2.4 GHz transceiver integration, -100 dBm RX sensitivity, 3.5 dBm TX output, 38 programmable I/O lines, and QFN-64 package with dedicated RF ground pins (AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN).
Technical Context
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 combines an enhanced RISC AVR core with a fully integrated DSSS-based 2.4 GHz transceiver supporting data rates up to 2 Mb/s. Its hardware-assisted MAC includes auto-acknowledge, auto-retry, and 32-bit IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter, enabling robust ZigBee stack implementation without external co-processor overhead.
It integrates dual crystal oscillators (16 MHz for transceiver timing, 32.768 kHz for low-power RTC and symbol counting), on-chip voltage regulators (DVDD/AVDD), and dedicated analog/digital supply domains (EVDD/DEVDD, AVSS/DVSS) with separate RF ground pins to minimize noise coupling between digital logic and RF front-end.
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-programmable Flash with read-while-write capability for firmware updates without halting operation. |
| Transceiver Data Rate | 250 kb/s, 500 kb/s, 1 Mb/s, and 2 Mb/s - selectable per IEEE 802.15.4-2011 PHY modes. |
| RX Sensitivity | -100 dBm at 250 kb/s - enables reliable link budget in low-SNR environments like building interiors. |
| TX Output Power | Up to +3.5 dBm - sufficient for 100+ meter line-of-sight range with standard PCB antenna. |
| Supply Current (Deep Sleep) | <250 nA @ 25°C - extends coin-cell battery life to multi-year operation in wake-on-RF applications. |
| I/O Count | 38 programmable I/O lines across Ports B, D, E, F, G - supports mixed-signal sensor interfacing and peripheral expansion. |
Pinout & Package
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 uses a 64-pad QFN (RoHS/Fully Green) package with exposed metal thermal pad internally connected to AVSS. The pad must be soldered to PCB ground plane for mechanical stability and thermal performance; leaving it unconnected risks delamination.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O port | 100 Ω differential interface requiring balun for single-ended antenna connection; isolated analog ground (AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN) minimizes digital noise injection. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz crystal oscillator terminals | Drive external 16 MHz crystal for transceiver reference clock; layout requires short traces and no nearby digital signals to maintain frequency stability. |
| EVDD / DEVDD | External analog/digital supply inputs | Accept 1.8–3.6 V; feed internal LDOs generating regulated AVDD/DVDD - decoupling capacitors (CB1/CB2/CB3/CB4) are mandatory for RF stability. |
| AVSS / DVSS | Analog/digital ground returns | Separate ground domains prevent digital switching noise from degrading ADC or RF performance; AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN are dedicated RF ground pins. |
| TST / CLKI | Test enable / external clock input | TST enables programming mode; CLKI allows external clock source - both must be tied (TST→AVSS, CLKI→DVSS) if unused to avoid floating inputs. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware AES-128 Engine | Offloads encryption/decryption from CPU, enabling secure ZigBee network joining and frame protection without software latency or memory footprint. |
| Integrated 32.768 kHz Oscillator | Enables sub-1 µA real-time clock and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter operation during Deep Sleep - critical for time-synchronized mesh networks. |
| On-chip Voltage Regulators | DVDD/AVDD generation from single EVDD/DEVDD supply simplifies power design and eliminates external LDOs in space-constrained nodes. |
| Antenna Diversity Support | Uses PG1 (DIG1) and PF2 (DIG2) to control external RF switch - improves link reliability in multipath indoor environments. |
| Hardware MAC Acceleration | Auto-Acknowledge, Auto-Retry, and CRC-16 computation reduce host CPU load and ensure IEEE 802.15.4 compliance without firmware overhead. |
Applications
| ZigBee Smart Home Hub | Industrial Wireless Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Central coordinator in residential ZigBee network managing lighting, thermostats, and door sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full Function Device (FFD) running ZigBee PRO stack with hardware MAC and AES security engine. Use Value: Single-chip integration eliminates external transceiver and reduces BOM cost by ~30% versus discrete MCU + radio solutions. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity node deployed in factory machinery monitoring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reduced Function Device (RFD) with Deep Sleep mode activated between 10-second sensor reads and RF transmissions. Use Value: <250 nA Deep Sleep current enables 5+ year operation on CR2032, eliminating maintenance cycles in inaccessible locations. |
| WirelessHART Field Instrument | 6LoWPAN Edge Router |
Use Scenario: Pressure transmitter in oil & gas pipeline with redundant mesh routing and time-synchronized sampling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Time-synced node using 32.768 kHz oscillator and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter for precise TDMA slot alignment. Use Value: Hardware symbol counter ensures sub-millisecond timing accuracy across mesh hops without drift compensation firmware. | Use Scenario: IPv6 gateway bridging IEEE 802.15.4 sensor network to Ethernet/Wi-Fi infrastructure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role device: 2.4 GHz transceiver for sensor network, USART/SPI for upstream connectivity, and SRAM buffer for 6LoWPAN header compression. Use Value: 16 KB internal SRAM accommodates full 6LoWPAN stack with fragmentation buffers, avoiding external memory and associated EMC issues. |
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 2.4 GHz transceiver IP, but no hardware AES; higher current in RX_ON (13.5 mA vs 12.5 mA). | Lacks hardware security engine - unsuitable for ZigBee 3.0 or Thread-certified deployments requiring AES acceleration. | Select when larger code space is needed and security is handled in software or external crypto IC. |
| CC2652R1FIPNR | ARM Cortex-M4F core, 352 KB Flash, integrated RF with -100 dBm sensitivity, but requires external DC-DC converter and lacks integrated voltage regulators. | Higher processing throughput and BLE 5.0 support, but demands more complex power design and lacks AVR toolchain compatibility. | Select for BLE/ZigBee dual-mode or high-throughput edge processing where ARM ecosystem and TI-RTOS support are prioritized. |
Compared with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00, ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR offers double Flash capacity but sacrifices hardware AES, while CC2652R1FIPNR delivers superior compute and protocol flexibility at the cost of increased board-level complexity and loss of AVR's ultra-low-power sleep efficiency.
Availability
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial wireless sensor networks, ZigBee smart home hubs, and WirelessHART field instruments requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 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 AVR wireless products. The company specializes in microcontrollers, analog, FPGA, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 belongs to the Atmel AVR Wireless family, designed specifically for ultra-low-power, standards-compliant 2.4 GHz mesh networking in resource-constrained IoT endpoints where integration, security, and battery longevity are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum transmit output power of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 delivers up to +3.5 dBm TX output power in its highest setting, measured at the RFP/RFN differential port. This level supports reliable communication over 100+ meters in open-air conditions and is configurable via register settings without external PA components. The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 maintains this output across its full 1.8–3.6 V supply range.
Does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 support hardware AES encryption?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 includes a dedicated hardware AES-128 engine compliant with FIPS-197. It performs encryption/decryption and key scheduling independently of the AVR core, reducing CPU load and ensuring deterministic timing for ZigBee security frame processing. The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 uses this engine for MIC generation, frame confidentiality, and network key derivation.
What crystal frequencies are required for the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 requires two crystals: a 16 MHz fundamental-mode crystal on XTAL1/XTAL2 for transceiver timing and baseband processing, and a 32.768 kHz tuning-fork crystal on TOSC1/TOSC2 for the asynchronous timer and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter. Both crystals must meet specified load capacitance (12 pF for 16 MHz; 12–25 pF for 32.768 kHz) and ESR limits per the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 datasheet.
How many I/O pins does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 provide?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 provides 38 programmable I/O lines distributed across Ports B (8), D (8), E (8), F (8), and G (6). Port A and Port C are not physically implemented, though their register addresses remain reserved for software compatibility. All I/O pins support internal pull-ups and multiple alternate functions including UART, SPI, I²C, PWM, and ADC inputs.
What is the Deep Sleep current consumption of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 achieves less than 250 nA typical current in Deep Sleep mode at 25°C, with the 32.768 kHz oscillator, MAC symbol counter, and watchdog timer optionally active. This ultra-low leakage enables multi-year operation on primary batteries. The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 maintains this spec across -40°C to +85°C, with derating to <1 µA at 125°C.
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 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-ZU00 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 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-ZU00 reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00?
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 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-ZU00?
For technical support, including ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 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-ZU00 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00, 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-ZU00 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZU00:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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