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Microchip Technology ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 64QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,750
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Product details
Overview
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR 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, -100 dBm RX sensitivity, 3.5 dBm TX output, and ultra-low deep-sleep current of <250 nA. It serves as a single-chip wireless node for battery-powered sensor networks and mesh endpoints.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR datasheet, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR pinout, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR application, or ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR equivalent, key selection criteria include its monolithic 2.4 GHz transceiver integration, hardware-accelerated AES-128 security engine, 32-bit MAC symbol counter, 38 programmable I/O lines, and industrial temperature support from -40°C to +125°C.
Technical Context
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR combines an enhanced RISC AVR core (135 instructions, 16 MIPS @ 16 MHz) with a fully integrated DSSS transceiver supporting 250 kb/s–2 Mb/s data rates. Its radio subsystem includes hardware-assisted MAC (auto-acknowledge, auto-retry), baseband processing, SFD detection, CRC-16 computation, and antenna diversity control via PG0/PG1 and PF2/PF3.
Power management integrates six software-selectable sleep modes, including Deep Sleep (<250 nA), Power-down, and ADC Noise Reduction mode. Voltage regulation supports 1.8–3.6 V operation with internal DVDD/AVDD generation from external DEVDD/EVDD supplies, enabling robust low-power RF performance without external LDOs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | AVR 8-bit RISC with 32 general-purpose registers and 2-cycle hardware multiplier |
| Flash Memory | 128 KB ISP-programmable Flash with read-while-write capability for firmware updates over-the-air |
| Transceiver Frequency | 2.4 GHz ISM band, fully compliant with IEEE 802.15.4-2011 and ZigBee PRO stack requirements |
| RX Sensitivity | -100 dBm at 250 kb/s, enabling reliable link budget in dense RF environments |
| TX Output Power | Up to +3.5 dBm, configurable in steps to optimize range vs. power consumption |
| Supply Current (Deep Sleep) | <250 nA @ 25°C, preserving battery life for multi-year deployments |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8–3.6 V with internal digital/analog regulators-no external LDO required |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +125°C industrial grade, validated for harsh environmental operation |
Pinout & Package
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR uses a 64-pad QFN package (9 mm × 9 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad internally connected to AVSS. Mechanical stability requires soldering the center pad to the PCB ground plane.
| 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 layout |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz crystal oscillator interface | Drives both MCU core and transceiver reference clock; requires low-parasitic routing |
| DEVDD / EVDD | External digital/analog supply inputs | Feed internal DVDD/AVDD regulators; require local 1 µF bypass capacitors per supply rail |
| AVSS_RFP / AVSS_RFN | Dedicated RF ground returns | Must be isolated from digital ground planes to prevent RF noise coupling into analog front-end |
| PG0 / PG1 | Antenna diversity control outputs | Drive external RF switches (e.g., SW1/SW2 in Fig 4-2) to select between ANT0/ANT1 paths |
| TST / CLKI | Programming enable & external clock input | TST must be tied low if unused; CLKI may connect to DVSS when not used as clock source |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware AES-128 Engine | Offloads encryption/decryption from CPU, enabling secure ZigBee key exchange and payload protection without latency penalty |
| 32-bit IEEE 802.15.4 Symbol Counter | Provides precise MAC-layer timing for beacon synchronization and CSMA-CA backoff in mesh networks |
| Integrated 32.768 kHz Oscillator | Enables sub-1 µA real-time clock operation during Deep Sleep for scheduled wake-up and time-stamped events |
| On-chip Voltage Regulators | Eliminates need for external LDOs-DVDD/AVDD generated internally from single 1.8–3.6 V supply |
| JTAG Debug Interface | IEEE 1149.1-compliant boundary scan and on-chip debug support for full flash/EEPROM/fuse programming and real-time tracing |
| 10-bit ADC with Differential Gain | Supports precision sensor interfacing (e.g., thermistors, strain gauges) with programmable gain up to 200× |
Applications
| ZigBee End Device (RFD) | Industrial Wireless Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity sensor reporting to a ZigBee coordinator every 5 minutes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-function ZigBee endpoint executing MAC layer, network layer, and application logic while managing low-duty-cycle RF transmission. Use Value: Integrated transceiver and sleep modes extend coin-cell battery life beyond 5 years using <250 nA Deep Sleep current and hardware MAC acceleration. | Use Scenario: Vibration monitoring node on rotating machinery in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time data acquisition (ADC + timer capture), local preprocessing, and burst-mode 2.4 GHz transmission to gateway. Use Value: On-chip 16 KB SRAM buffers high-speed sensor streams; hardware CRC-16 ensures packet integrity over noisy industrial RF environments. |
| 6LoWPAN Router (FFD) | Secure Smart Home Actuator |
Use Scenario: Mains-powered lighting controller bridging IPv6 traffic between Ethernet and ZigBee mesh. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-function ZigBee router handling neighbor discovery, route maintenance, and 6LoWPAN header compression/decompression. Use Value: 128 KB Flash stores dual-stack firmware (ZigBee + 6LoWPAN); hardware AES enables end-to-end TLS-like security for OTA updates. | Use Scenario: Battery-operated smart lock actuating motor based on encrypted BLE/ZigBee commands. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure command parser, motor driver control (PWM via OC0A/OC1B), and tamper-detection interrupt handler. Use Value: True random number generator seeds cryptographic keys; dedicated RF ground pins (AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN) minimize EMI-induced false triggers. |
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 engine | Lacks integrated security acceleration-requires software AES, increasing CPU load and latency | Choose when larger code space is needed and security is handled externally or in software |
| CC2652R1FIPNR | ARM Cortex-M4F core, multi-protocol (ZigBee, BLE, Thread), higher RF sensitivity (-104 dBm) | Requires external DC-DC converter and separate security co-processor for full TrustZone implementation | Choose for protocol flexibility and higher throughput; avoid if legacy AVR toolchain compatibility is required |
Compared with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR, ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR offers double Flash capacity but sacrifices hardware AES, while CC2652R1FIPNR delivers broader protocol support and better sensitivity at the cost of increased BOM complexity and ARM ecosystem dependency.
Availability
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial wireless sensor networks, ZigBee mesh endpoints, and secure smart home actuators requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.
Supply support for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR 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, FPGA, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and IoT markets.
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR belongs to Atmel's legacy AVR Wireless family, designed specifically for ultra-low-power, standards-compliant 2.4 GHz mesh networking in resource-constrained edge devices.
FAQ
What is the maximum transmit output power of the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR achieves a maximum TX output power of +3.5 dBm at the RFP/RFN differential port. This value is measured under standard conditions (3.0 V supply, 25°C ambient) and is programmable in discrete steps via register configuration. The actual radiated power depends on external balun and antenna efficiency, and users must comply with regional regulatory limits (e.g., FCC Part 15.247, ETSI EN 300 328) when designing the RF front-end for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR.
Does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR support hardware AES encryption?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR includes a dedicated hardware AES-128 encryption/decryption engine compliant with FIPS-197. It operates independently of the AVR CPU, accepts 128-bit keys and 128-bit blocks via memory-mapped registers, and completes each round in one clock cycle. This enables secure ZigBee key establishment and payload encryption without consuming CPU cycles-critical for maintaining real-time responsiveness in ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR-based sensor nodes.
What are the critical layout requirements for the RF section of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR?
For optimal RF performance, ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR requires strict PCB layout discipline: RFP/RFN traces must be length-matched 100 Ω differential pairs with no stubs; AVSS_RFP and AVSS_RFN grounds must be isolated from digital ground planes and connected directly to the balun ground; crystal traces (XTAL1/XTAL2) must be short, shielded from digital signals, and use low-parasitic capacitors (CX1/CX2 = 12 pF). Failure to follow these guidelines degrades ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR's -100 dBm sensitivity and increases bit error rate.
Can the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR operate without an external 32.768 kHz crystal?
No-the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR requires an external 32.768 kHz crystal connected to PG4 (TOSC1) and PG3 (TOSC2) to enable its low-power asynchronous timer and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter. While the device includes an internal RC oscillator for main system clock, only the external crystal provides the accuracy and sub-1 µA current needed for Deep Sleep timing and MAC-layer synchronization. Omitting the crystal disables ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR's ability to maintain time-critical ZigBee beacon intervals and scheduled wake-ups.
How many general-purpose I/O pins does the ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR provide?
The ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR provides 38 programmable I/O lines across Ports B, D, E, F, and G. Port A and Port C are omitted in this variant (as confirmed in Section 3.4.1 of the datasheet), and Port G is 6-bit instead of 8-bit. All I/O pins support internal pull-ups, interrupt-on-change, and alternate functions including UART, SPI, TWI, PWM, and ADC inputs-enabling flexible peripheral mapping while retaining full GPIO count for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR-based designs.
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR 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 ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-QFN (9x9)
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR 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-ZUR reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR?
ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR 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-ZUR?
For technical support, including ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR 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-ZUR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR?
All ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR, 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-ZUR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA128RFA1-ZUR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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