Microchip Technology ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU
- Part No.:
- ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 48QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is an 8-bit AVR microcontroller with integrated 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee transceiver in a 48-pin QFN package. It delivers 64 KB Flash, 2 KB EEPROM, 8 KB SRAM, 33 programmable I/O lines, and -100 dBm RX sensitivity with up to +3.5 dBm TX output power. It targets battery-powered wireless sensor nodes and end-device applications requiring low-power RF communication.
For engineers reviewing the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU datasheet, ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU pinout, ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU application, or ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated MAC hardware acceleration, deep-sleep current <700 nA, 250–2000 kb/s data rates, AES-128 security engine, and dual-crystal support (16 MHz for RF, 32.768 kHz for low-power timing).
Technical Context
The ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU integrates a high-efficiency AVR RISC core with a fully featured 2.4 GHz transceiver on a single die. Its architecture includes hardware-assisted IEEE 802.15.4 MAC (auto-acknowledge, auto-retry), 32-bit symbol counter, CRC-16 computation, and DSSS spreading/despreading - all operating independently of the CPU.
It features dual regulated supply domains (AVDD/DVDD internally generated from EVDD/DEVDD), dedicated RF ground pins (AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN), and separate 16 MHz (RF) and 32.768 kHz (low-power timer) crystal interfaces. The transceiver supports 250/500 kb/s, 1 Mb/s, and 2 Mb/s modes with configurable TX power and PLL synthesizer channel spacing (5 MHz / 500 kHz).
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 MHz. |
| Flash / EEPROM / SRAM | 64 KB / 2 KB / 8 KB - sufficient for ZigBee end-node stack + application logic with field-upgradable firmware. |
| RF Performance | -100 dBm RX sensitivity, +3.5 dBm max TX output - supports robust 2.4 GHz mesh links over 100+ meters in open air. |
| Power Consumption | Deep Sleep: <700 nA @ 25°C; RX_ON: 6.0 mA; TX (max power): 14.5 mA - enables multi-year battery life in sensor nodes. |
| Data Rates & Modulation | 250/500 kb/s, 1/2 Mb/s O-QPSK DSSS per IEEE 802.15.4-2011 - compatible with ZigBee Pro, 6LoWPAN, and RF4CE. |
| Security Engine | Hardware AES-128 accelerator + true random number generator - offloads encryption from CPU and ensures cryptographically secure key generation. |
| Crystal Support | Dual oscillators: external 16 MHz crystal (XTAL1/XTAL2) for RF timing; external 32.768 kHz crystal (PG3/PG4) for low-power RTC and symbol counter. |
Pinout & Package
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU uses a 48-pad, 7×7 mm RoHS-compliant QFN package with exposed thermal pad internally connected to AVSS. The center pad must be soldered to PCB ground for mechanical stability and thermal performance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF I/O port (positive/negative) | 100 Ω differential interface requiring balun for single-ended antenna connection; dedicated AVSS_RFP/AVSS_RFN grounds minimize RF noise coupling. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16 MHz crystal oscillator inputs | Drive the RF transceiver's PLL reference; require low-parasitic layout and 12 pF load capacitors for ±20 ppm stability. |
| PG3 / PG4 | 32.768 kHz crystal oscillator inputs | Enable ultra-low-power timing for MAC symbol counter and asynchronous RTC; total shunt capacitance ≤15 pF required. |
| EVDD / DEVDD | External analog/digital supply inputs | Accept 1.8–3.6 V; feed internal LDOs generating AVDD/DVDD - decoupling with ≥1 µF capacitors per supply is mandatory. |
| TST / CLKI | Test mode enable / clock input | Must be externally tied: TST to AVSS (if unused), CLKI to DVSS - floating states cause undefined behavior and excess current draw. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware MAC Acceleration | Offloads frame filtering, SFD detection, CRC-16, auto-ACK, and auto-retry - reduces CPU load and improves protocol timing accuracy. |
| Multiple Low-Power Modes | Deep Sleep (<700 nA), Power-save (asynchronous timer active), ADC Noise Reduction - enables precise duty-cycled operation for energy harvesting systems. |
| Integrated Security Subsystem | AES-128 encryption/decryption + TRNG - eliminates need for external crypto ICs in secure sensor networks and IoT edge devices. |
| 33 Programmable I/O Lines | With JTAG, SPI, two USARTs, TWI, and 7-channel 10-bit ADC - supports rich peripheral interfacing while retaining full RF functionality. |
| Antenna Diversity Support | Hardware-controlled TX/RX switching between multiple antennas - improves link reliability in multipath indoor environments without software overhead. |
Applications
| ZigBee End-Node Sensor | 6LoWPAN Smart Meter |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Wireless temperature/humidity sensor deployed in HVAC ducts with 10-year battery life requirement. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU acts as autonomous sensing node, executing ADC sampling, ZigBee stack, and scheduled beacon transmission using its 32.768 kHz RTC. Use Value: Deep Sleep current <700 nA and hardware MAC reduce average system current to ~1.2 µA - enabling coin-cell operation for >12 years. |
Use Scenario: Gas/water meter transmitting consumption data hourly via IPv6-over-LoWPAN to gateway. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU serves as network processor and RF interface, handling 6LoWPAN header compression, fragmentation, and IEEE 802.15.4 PHY/MAC layer. Use Value: Integrated 2 Mb/s DSSS modulation and hardware CRC-16 ensure reliable sub-second packet delivery even under RF interference in utility infrastructure. |
| RF4CE Remote Control | WirelessHART Field Device |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered TV remote supporting bidirectional pairing and firmware updates over 2.4 GHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU implements RF4CE protocol stack with AES-128 session keys and low-latency TX/RX switching using its dedicated RF I/O pins. Use Value: Hardware AES engine processes encryption in <10 µs per packet - enabling real-time response (<15 ms) without perceptible lag. |
Use Scenario: Industrial pressure transmitter in hazardous area requiring intrinsic safety and redundant wireless links. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU functions as WirelessHART device with time-synchronized channel hopping, leveraging its 32-bit symbol counter and hardware frame buffering. Use Value: Hardware-assisted multiple PAN address filtering allows coexistence with other 2.4 GHz networks (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) in dense plant environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATMEGA1284RFR2-ZU | 128 KB Flash, 4 KB EEPROM, 16 KB SRAM - double memory capacity; identical pinout and RF specs. | Supports larger ZigBee coordinator stacks or dual-application firmware images. | Select when firmware size exceeds 64 KB or field-upgrade rollback capability is required. |
| CC2652R1F | ARM Cortex-M4F core, 352 KB Flash, integrated BLE + IEEE 802.15.4, lower RX current (5.9 mA), no hardware AES but software-accelerated. | Targets multi-protocol gateways and higher-throughput industrial telemetry. | Choose for BLE/802.15.4 dual-mode operation or when ARM ecosystem tooling is preferred over AVR GCC. |
Compared with ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU, the ATMEGA1284RFR2-ZU offers scalable memory for complex coordinator roles, while the CC2652R1F provides ARM-based flexibility and multi-protocol support - neither is pin-compatible, but both serve overlapping low-power wireless end-node use cases with distinct architectural trade-offs.
Availability
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ZigBee sensor networks, 6LoWPAN smart meters, and RF4CE remote controls requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for ATMEGA644RFR2-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 ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU belongs to Atmel's legacy AVR RFR2 family, designed specifically for ultra-low-power IEEE 802.15.4 end-node applications where integrated RF, deterministic real-time control, and minimal external components are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum transmit output power of the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU?
The ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU achieves up to +3.5 dBm TX output power in its highest RF power setting. This value is measured into a 100 Ω differential load and enables robust 2.4 GHz communication links in challenging RF environments. Actual radiated power depends on antenna matching and PCB layout - the integrated transceiver requires careful balun design and impedance control per the reference schematic.
Does the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU support hardware AES encryption?
Yes, the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU includes a dedicated hardware AES-128 encryption/decryption engine and a true random number generator (TRNG). These peripherals operate independently of the AVR CPU, enabling secure key exchange and payload encryption without compromising real-time sensor sampling or RF timing - critical for ZigBee and WirelessHART compliance.
What crystal frequencies are required for the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU?
The ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU requires two crystals: a 16 MHz crystal on XTAL1/XTAL2 for RF transceiver timing and PLL synthesis, and a 32.768 kHz crystal on PG3/PG4 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) and stability requirements to ensure RF accuracy and deep-sleep timing integrity.
How many ADC channels does the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU support?
The ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU provides 7 single-ended ADC input channels (ADC0–ADC6) with 10-bit resolution and 330 ks/s sampling rate. Port F pins PF0–PF6 serve as analog inputs; PF3 and PF4 share a single pin, limiting simultaneous use. The ADC includes an optional differential input stage with programmable gain, supporting precision sensor interfacing directly without external signal conditioning.
Is the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU pin-compatible with other RFR2 devices?
Yes, the ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU shares identical QFN-48 pinout, package dimensions, and peripheral mapping with ATMEGA1284RFR2-ZU and ATMEGA2564RFR2-ZU. Memory size differences (64 KB/128 KB/256 KB Flash) do not affect pin function or electrical behavior - enabling hardware reuse across product tiers by simply updating firmware and fuse settings.
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4
- Protocol:
- Zigbee®
- Modulation:
- O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 2Mbps
- Power - Output:
- 3.5dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -100dBm
- Memory Size:
- 64kB Flash, 2kB EEPROM, 8kB SRAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- I2C, JTAG, SPI, USART
- GPIO:
- 32
- 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:
- 48-QFN (7x7)
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATMEGA644RFR2-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 ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU reliable?
The price and inventory of ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU?
ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATMEGA644RFR2-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 ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU?
For technical support, including ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATMEGA644RFR2-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 ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU?
All ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATMEGA644RFR2-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 ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATMEGA644RFR2-ZU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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