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Microchip Technology ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 64QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,490
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Product details
Overview
ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is an 8-bit AVR microcontroller integrated with a 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee transceiver in a single QFN-64 package. It delivers 128 KB Flash, 4 KB EEPROM, 16 KB SRAM, 38 programmable I/O lines, and operates from 1.8–3.6 V at up to 16 MHz. It targets low-power wireless sensor networks and mesh routing nodes.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU datasheet, ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU pinout, ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU application, or ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU equivalent, key selection criteria include integrated MAC hardware acceleration, -100 dBm RX sensitivity, 3.5 dBm TX output, AES security engine, and deep-sleep current <700 nA - all critical for battery-powered IEEE 802.15.4 edge devices.
Technical Context
The ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU combines an enhanced RISC AVR core with a fully integrated 2.4 GHz transceiver supporting DSSS modulation, hardware-assisted MAC (auto-ack, auto-retry), and 32-bit IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter. Its fractional-N PLL provides 5 MHz/500 kHz channel spacing across the ISM band.
It features dual crystal oscillators (16 MHz for RF, 32.768 kHz for low-power timing), on-chip voltage regulation (DVDD/AVDD), dedicated RF ground pins (AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN), and hardware AES-128 encryption with true random number generation - enabling secure, timing-accurate, low-latency wireless communication without external RF components.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | AVR 8-bit RISC with 135 instructions; most execute in one cycle - enables deterministic real-time control at 16 MIPS @ 16 MHz. |
| Flash / EEPROM / SRAM | 128 KB / 4 KB / 16 KB - sufficient for full ZigBee stack + application logic with no external memory required. |
| RF Performance | -100 dBm RX sensitivity, 3.5 dBm TX output, 250 kb/s–2 Mb/s data rates - supports robust link budget in noisy industrial environments. |
| Power Consumption | Deep Sleep: <700 nA @ 25°C; RX_ON: 6.0 mA; TX max: 14.5 mA - enables multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries. |
| ADC & Peripherals | 10-bit, 8-channel ADC (330 ks/s), 2x USART, SPI, TWI, RTC, 6x PWM timers - supports sensor interfacing and wired coexistence. |
| Security | Hardware AES-128 engine + true random generator - enables authenticated encryption without CPU overhead or software vulnerability. |
| Operating Range | -40°C to +125°C, 1.8–3.6 V supply - qualified for industrial and extended-temperature embedded deployments. |
Pinout & Package
ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU uses a 64-pad QFN package (RoHS-compliant, exposed thermal pad connected to AVSS). The center metal paddle must be soldered to PCB ground for mechanical stability and thermal performance; leaving it unconnected risks delamination.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O | 100 Ω differential antenna interface; requires balun for single-ended 50 Ω systems - defines RF front-end impedance matching point. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz RF crystal oscillator | Drives transceiver PLL; layout must minimize parasitic capacitance for ±20 ppm frequency stability in high-data-rate modes. |
| AVSS_RFP / AVSS_RFN | Dedicated RF ground | Isolates RF return path from digital noise - mandatory for achieving -100 dBm sensitivity and EMI compliance. |
| DEVDD / EVDD | Digital / analog supply inputs | External 1.8–3.6 V supplies; internal regulators generate DVDD/AVDD - decoupling capacitors (CB1/CB2/CB3/CB4) are mandatory per layout guidelines. |
| TST / CLKI | Test enable / clock input | TST enables programming mode; CLKI allows external clock injection - both must be tied (TST→AVSS if unused, CLKI→DVSS) to prevent floating-induced leakage. |
| PG0 / PF3–PF7 / PE0–PE7 etc. | Programmable I/O (38 total) | Bi-directional with internal pull-ups; PB–PG ports retain ATmega1281 register mapping - enables partial software reuse from legacy designs. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware-assisted MAC | Auto-acknowledge, auto-retry, and frame buffering eliminate host CPU intervention during packet transmission - reduces latency and firmware complexity in mesh routing. |
| Multiple PAN address filtering | Enables concurrent participation in up to 8 independent ZigBee networks - supports gateway devices bridging heterogeneous sensor domains. |
| Integrated AES-128 engine | Offloads encryption/decryption from CPU; supports CCM* mode per ZigBee SE - ensures secure over-the-air updates without compromising real-time responsiveness. |
| Antenna diversity support | Uses PG1 (DIG1) and PF2 (DIG2) to control external RF switches - improves link reliability in multipath indoor environments without additional MCU GPIO overhead. |
| Low-power 32.768 kHz oscillator | Consumes <1 µA; drives asynchronous Timer/Counter2 and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter - enables precise sleep/wake scheduling and time-synced beaconing in battery-constrained nodes. |
Applications
| ZigBee Router Node | Industrial Sensor Gateway |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Deployed as a mid-tier coordinator in factory-floor wireless sensor networks monitoring temperature, vibration, and humidity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as IEEE 802.15.4 network router with hardware MAC offload and AES-secured frame forwarding; maintains synchronized symbol timing via 32.768 kHz oscillator. Use Value: Eliminates need for external transceiver + MCU pairing, reducing BOM count by 2 ICs and PCB area by >35% while maintaining -100 dBm link margin. | Use Scenario: Aggregating Modbus RTU sensor data and bridging to ZigBee mesh for cloud telemetry in HVAC control systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serves as dual-interface bridge: UART peripherals handle legacy sensors; integrated RF handles secure, low-power upstream reporting with MAC timestamping. Use Value: Enables direct integration of wired industrial sensors into wireless infrastructure without external protocol converters or power-hungry gateways. |
| Smart Lighting Control Node | Wireless Building Automation |
Use Scenario: Embedded in LED driver modules for DALI-to-ZigBee translation and group dimming control in commercial lighting systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Executes lighting control logic while managing encrypted ZigBee cluster commands; uses PWM timers for smooth LED dimming curves. Use Value: Achieves sub-100 ms command response with hardware AES and auto-ack - meets EN 15232 Class A energy-efficiency certification requirements. | Use Scenario: Occupancy and ambient light sensing node in office building automation, reporting to central BMS via ZigBee Green Power. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Functions as ultra-low-power end device: samples sensors, compresses data, transmits infrequently using deep-sleep wake-up timers. Use Value: Delivers >10-year battery life on CR2477 cells due to <700 nA deep-sleep current and hardware-accelerated frame processing. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATMEGA256RFR2-ZU | 256 KB Flash, 8 KB EEPROM, 32 KB SRAM - double memory capacity; identical pinout and RF specs. | Suitable for full ZigBee Pro coordinators requiring larger stack footprint and routing table storage. | Select when application demands >128 KB code space or >4 KB nonvolatile configuration storage. |
| CC2652R1F | ARM Cortex-M4F core, 352 KB Flash, integrated RF front-end; no external crystal required for RF clock. | Supports BLE 5.0, ZigBee, Thread, and proprietary protocols - broader multi-standard flexibility. | Choose for multi-protocol convergence or when migrating from 8-bit to 32-bit architecture with higher compute headroom. |
Compared with ATMEGA256RFR2-ZU, the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU offers optimal cost/performance balance for mid-tier ZigBee routers where 128 KB Flash suffices; versus CC2652R1F, it provides lower power in deep-sleep modes and simpler toolchain integration for legacy AVR-based firmware teams.
Availability
ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor networks, smart lighting control systems, and wireless building automation requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for ATMEGA128RFR2-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 ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU belongs to the AVR RFR2 family, designed specifically to integrate ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4 networking capability into resource-constrained embedded nodes - eliminating external transceivers while preserving AVR's low-power, deterministic execution model.
FAQ
What is the maximum transmit output power of the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU?
The ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU achieves up to +3.5 dBm TX output power in its highest RF power setting. This value is measured at the RFP/RFN differential port under 3.3 V supply and room temperature conditions, enabling reliable communication over distances exceeding 100 meters in open-field environments with appropriate antennas.
Does the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU require external crystals?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU requires two external crystals: a 16 MHz crystal between XTAL1 and XTAL2 for the RF transceiver PLL, and a 32.768 kHz crystal between TOSC1 and TOSC2 for the low-power asynchronous timer and IEEE 802.15.4 symbol counter. Both are mandatory for full functionality.
How many general-purpose I/O pins does the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU provide?
The ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU provides 38 programmable I/O lines across Ports B, D, E, F, and G. Port A and Port C are not physically implemented, though their register addresses remain reserved for software compatibility with ATmega1281 derivatives.
What power-saving modes are supported by the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU?
The ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU supports six software-selectable power modes: Idle, Power-down, Power-save, ADC Noise Reduction, Standby, and Extended Standby. Deep Sleep mode draws <700 nA at 25°C, with optional retention of the 32.768 kHz oscillator, watchdog timer, and MAC symbol counter.
Is the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU pin-compatible with other RFR2 family members?
Yes, the ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU shares identical QFN-64 pinout, package dimensions, and peripheral register mapping with ATMEGA256RFR2-ZU and ATMEGA64RFR2-ZU. This allows hardware design reuse across memory variants, though software must account for differing Flash/EEPROM/SRAM capacities.
ATMEGA128RFR2-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:
- Zigbee®
- Modulation:
- DSSS, 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:
- 35
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 5mA ~ 12.5mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 8mA ~ 14.5mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-QFN (9x9)
ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA128RFR2-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 ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU?
ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA128RFR2-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 ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU?
For technical support, including ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA128RFR2-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 ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU?
All ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA128RFR2-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 ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA128RFR2-ZU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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