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Microchip Technology ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 64QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,476
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Product details
Overview
ATMEGA256RFR2-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 in a single QFN-64 package. It delivers 256 KB Flash, 32 KB SRAM, 8 KB EEPROM, -100 dBm RX sensitivity, and 3.5 dBm TX output power. It operates from 1.8–3.6 V and supports 250 kb/s to 2 Mb/s data rates for low-power wireless sensor networks.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR datasheet, ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR pinout, ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR application, or ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR equivalent, key selection criteria include integrated MAC hardware acceleration, AES-128 security engine, 38 programmable I/O lines, deep-sleep current <700 nA, and compatibility with ZigBee Pro coordinator/router roles in industrial mesh networks.
Technical Context
The ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR integrates an enhanced RISC AVR core with a fractional-N PLL synthesizer, DSSS baseband processor, and hardware-assisted MAC layer supporting auto-acknowledge and auto-retry. Its dual-oscillator system uses 16 MHz crystal for RF timing and 32.768 kHz crystal for low-power symbol counting and RTC functions.
It implements full IEEE 802.15.4-2011 PHY/MAC compliance with 32-bit symbol counter, SFD detection, CRC-16 computation, and antenna diversity control via PG1/PG2 and PF3/PF2. The transceiver includes TX spectrum side-lobe suppression and phase measurement support for advanced RF diagnostics.
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 / EEPROM / SRAM | 256 KB / 8 KB / 32 KB - sufficient for full ZigBee Pro stack + application firmware without external memory |
| RF Band & Data Rates | 2.4 GHz ISM band; supports 250/500 kb/s, 1/2 Mb/s - enables interoperability across ZigBee, RF4CE, and 6LoWPAN |
| RX Sensitivity / TX Power | -100 dBm @ 250 kb/s / up to +3.5 dBm - provides robust link budget for multi-hop mesh deployments |
| Supply Current (Active) | 10.1 mA (AVR + transceiver RX_ON) @ 3.0 V - enables battery operation for >1 year in periodic sensing applications |
| Deep Sleep Current | <700 nA @ 25°C - preserves battery life during extended idle periods while retaining MAC symbol counter state |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +125°C - qualified for industrial automation, smart metering, and harsh-environment monitoring |
| Digital I/O Lines | 38 programmable pins - supports mixed-signal sensor interfacing, UART/SPI/TWI peripherals, and GPIO-controlled RF front-end switches |
Pinout & Package
ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR uses a 64-pad QFN package (RoHS-compliant, fully green) with exposed metal paddle internally connected to AVSS for thermal and mechanical stability. The center pad must be soldered to PCB ground plane to prevent delamination.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O port | 100 Ω differential interface requiring balun for 50 Ω single-ended antenna connection |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz crystal oscillator terminals | Drive RF transceiver PLL reference; require low-parasitic routing and 12 pF load capacitors |
| TST | Programming/test mode enable | Must be pulled low in normal operation; used to enter high-voltage programming mode |
| CLKI | External clock input | Alternative clock source for MCU core when crystal not used; connect to DVSS if unused |
| EVDD / DEVDD | Analog/digital external supply inputs | Separate analog (RF/ADC) and digital (core/peripheral) supply domains with internal LDO regulation |
| AVSS_RFP / AVSS_RFN | Dedicated RF ground returns | Isolate RF noise from digital ground; must be routed separately to minimize coupling |
| PG1 / PG2 | Antenna diversity control outputs | GPIOs configured as DIG1/DIG2 to drive external RF switches for dual-antenna selection |
| PF3 / PF2 | RX/TX indicator outputs | GPIOs configured as DIG4/DIG2 to signal active RF receive/transmit states to external circuitry |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware AES-128 Engine | Accelerates encryption/decryption for ZigBee security layers without CPU overhead or timing leakage |
| Integrated MAC Acceleration | Offloads frame filtering, CRC-16, auto-ACK, auto-retry, and symbol timing - reduces host MCU interrupt load |
| Multiple PAN Address Filtering | Enables concurrent participation in multiple ZigBee networks using hardware address matching |
| True Random Number Generator | Provides entropy source for secure key generation compliant with FIPS 140-2 requirements |
| Phase Measurement Support | Enables time-of-flight and angle-of-arrival calculations for indoor localization applications |
| Low-Power Crystal Oscillators | 32.768 kHz sub-1 µA oscillator maintains symbol counter and RTC during deep sleep modes |
Applications
| Smart Utility Metering | ZigBee Pro Coordinator |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered gas/water meters transmitting consumption data hourly over multi-hop mesh to concentrator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-function node executing ZigBee SE 1.1 stack with AES-128 encryption, MAC offload, and deep-sleep scheduling. Use Value: 700 nA deep-sleep current extends 10-year battery life; hardware CRC and auto-retry ensure reliable packet delivery in noisy utility environments. | Use Scenario: Central network coordinator managing 100+ end devices in industrial building automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-memory coordinator running ZigBee Pro stack with APS layer, binding tables, and trust center services. Use Value: 256 KB Flash stores full protocol stack + application logic; 32 KB SRAM buffers large routing tables and multicast frames. |
| Wireless Sensor Node | 6LoWPAN Edge Router |
Use Scenario: Temperature/humidity sensor node in HVAC ducts reporting every 5 minutes via IPv6-over-IEEE 802.15.4. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reduced Function Device (RFD) with hardware-assisted frame handling and low-power wake-up timer. Use Value: Hardware SFD detection and despreading reduce CPU wake-up latency; 10.1 mA RX_ON current enables fast polling response. | Use Scenario: Gateway bridging IEEE 802.15.4 sensor network to Ethernet/Wi-Fi using 6LoWPAN header compression. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full Function Device (FFD) performing 6LoWPAN adaptation layer processing and neighbor discovery. Use Value: Dual USARTs support simultaneous serial debug and host interface; SPI allows external flash expansion for firmware 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATMEGA128RFR2-ZUR | 128 KB Flash, 16 KB SRAM, 4 KB EEPROM - reduced memory footprint | Targeted for ZigBee router or mid-tier coordinator roles with smaller stack footprint | Select when application requires lower cost and memory constraints allow simplified stack implementation |
| ATMEGA64RFR2-ZUR | 64 KB Flash, 8 KB SRAM, 2 KB EEPROM - minimal memory configuration | Optimized for end-node sensor devices with no routing or coordinator responsibilities | Select for ultra-low-cost, battery-operated endpoints where only basic MAC and sensor I/O are needed |
Compared with ATMEGA128RFR2-ZUR and ATMEGA64RFR2-ZUR, the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR provides 2× Flash/SRAM of the 128K variant and 4× of the 64K variant - enabling full ZigBee Pro stack deployment, larger routing tables, and future firmware scalability without hardware redesign.
Availability
ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, smart metering, and wireless sensor network applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for ATMEGA256RFR2-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 continues to manufacture, support, and extend the AVR wireless microcontroller portfolio with full backward compatibility and long-term product commitments.
The ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR belongs to the Atmel RFR2 family - designed specifically for standards-based, low-power 2.4 GHz wireless mesh networking in industrial, utility, and building automation systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum transmit output power of the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
The ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR delivers up to +3.5 dBm TX output power in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. This value is measured under standard conditions (3.0 V supply, 250 kb/s data rate) and enables robust link budgets for multi-hop ZigBee networks. Output power is software-configurable and can be reduced to meet regulatory limits or extend battery life in endpoint devices.
Does the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR support hardware AES encryption?
Yes, the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR includes a dedicated hardware AES-128 encryption/decryption engine compliant with IEEE 802.15.4 security requirements. It operates independently of the AVR core, enabling secure frame processing without CPU intervention or timing side-channel vulnerabilities. The engine supports ECB, CTR, and CCM* modes required for ZigBee Pro and Smart Energy profiles.
What crystal frequencies are required for the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
The ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR requires two crystals: a 16 MHz crystal on XTAL1/XTAL2 for RF transceiver timing and PLL reference, and a 32.768 kHz crystal on TOSC1/TOSC2 for low-power symbol counting and asynchronous timer operation. Both crystals must be placed close to their respective pins with minimal trace length and proper load capacitance (12 pF for 16 MHz; 12–25 pF for 32.768 kHz).
How many GPIO pins does the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR provide?
The ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR provides 38 programmable I/O lines across Ports B, D, E, F, and G. Port A and Port C are not physically implemented but retain register compatibility with legacy ATmega2561 code. All 38 pins support multiple alternate functions including UART, SPI, TWI, ADC, PWM, and RF-specific controls like antenna diversity (PG1/PG2) and RX/TX indicators (PF3/PF2).
What is the deep sleep current specification for the ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
The ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR achieves <700 nA deep sleep current at 25°C when configured with the watchdog timer, 32.768 kHz oscillator, and MAC symbol counter active. This ultra-low quiescent current enables multi-year battery life in intermittently active sensor nodes. The value is validated per datasheet Figure 3-2 and assumes proper PCB layout, unused pin termination, and disabled non-essential regulators.
ATMEGA256RFR2-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:
- Zigbee®
- Modulation:
- DSSS, O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 2Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 3.5dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -100dBm
- Memory Size:
- 256kB Flash, 8kB EEPROM, 32kB 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)
ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA256RFR2-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 ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA256RFR2-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 ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
For technical support, including ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA256RFR2-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 ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR?
All ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA256RFR2-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 ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA256RFR2-ZUR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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