My Inquiry
My Account
Microchip Technology ATSAMR21E17A-MF
- Part No.:
- ATSAMR21E17A-MF
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATSAMR21E17A-MF.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU 802.15.4 32QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,620
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
ATSAMR21E17A-MF from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M0+ wireless microcontroller integrating an ultra-low-power 2.4GHz ISM band transceiver, 128KB Flash, 16KB SRAM, and operating at up to 48MHz. It delivers 2.46 CoreMark/MHz performance and supports SleepWalking peripherals for autonomous operation in standby mode-ideal for battery-powered IoT sensor nodes and Zigbee/Thread edge devices.
For engineers reviewing the ATSAMR21E17A-MF datasheet, ATSAMR21E17A-MF pinout, ATSAMR21E17A-MF application, or ATSAMR21E17A-MF equivalent, key selection criteria include its QFN32 package with integrated RF transceiver, -40°C to +125°C industrial temperature grade, hardware AES-128 security engine, and SERCOM-configurable interfaces (USART/I²C/SPI/LIN) supporting concurrent wired and wireless communication stacks.
Technical Context
The ATSAMR21E17A-MF implements a tightly coupled ARM Cortex-M0+ core with Micro Trace Buffer (MTB) and single-cycle hardware multiplier, paired with a dedicated 2.4GHz transceiver based on the AT86RF233 PHY layer. Its clock system combines DFLL48M and FDPLL96M for precise frequency synthesis, enabling stable USB 2.0 full-speed operation and accurate RF carrier generation.
Peripherals are orchestrated via a 12-channel Event System that enables inter-peripheral signaling without CPU intervention-even in standby mode. The integrated 4-channel 12-bit ADC (350ksps), two analog comparators, and Peripheral Touch Controller (PTC) support capacitive sensing across up to 12 electrodes, while SleepWalking allows TC/TCC modules to autonomously sample, process, and trigger wake events based on thresholds or timing windows.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M0+ @ 48MHz; enables deterministic real-time control with 2.46 CoreMark/MHz efficiency |
| Memory | 128KB Flash + 16KB SRAM; sufficient for dual-stack Zigbee PRO + OTA bootloader with secure storage |
| RF Transceiver | Integrated 2.4GHz ISM band transceiver (AT86RF233-based); supports 250kb/s O-QPSK with -99dBm RX sensitivity and +4dBm TX output |
| ADC | 12-bit, 350ksps, 4-channel; includes programmable gain (1x–16x), oversampling, and hardware decimation to 16-bit resolution |
| Package & Temp | QFN32, 5×5mm, exposed thermal pad; rated for -40°C to +125°C industrial operation with matte Sn plating |
| Security | Hardware AES-128 engine + True Random Number Generator; enables authenticated encryption for secure firmware updates and mesh network keys |
| Low-Power Modes | Idle and Standby modes with SleepWalking; peripherals can execute tasks (e.g., ADC sampling, timer expiry) without waking CPU |
Pinout & Package
ATSAMR21E17A-MF uses a 32-pin QFN package (5mm × 5mm, 0.5mm pitch) with an exposed metal thermal pad internally connected to GND. The pad must be soldered to PCB ground for mechanical stability and thermal performance; it is not a substitute for dedicated GND pins.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PA00 / PA01 | XOSC32K input/output | Connects external 32.768kHz crystal for RTC/calendar; internal oscillator option available but not used in MF-grade part |
| PA14 / PA15 | XOSCRF input/output | Dedicated 16MHz crystal interface for RF transceiver PLL; critical for stable 2.4GHz carrier generation |
| PA27 / PA28 | SWDIO / SWCLK | Two-pin Serial Wire Debug interface; supports non-intrusive on-chip debug and flash programming |
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF port | 100Ω differential antenna interface; requires AC coupling and <30pF pin-to-ground capacitance for stable TX common-mode control |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | Main system oscillator | Connects external 1–32MHz crystal for DFLL48M/FDPLL96M clock synthesis; enables USB 2.0 full-speed timing accuracy |
| PA30 / PA31 | SERCOM0 (I²C/USART/SPI) | Configurable peripheral interface; default I²C SDA/SCL for sensor hub connectivity or debug console UART |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware MAC Acceleration | Auto-Acknowledge and Auto-Retry logic offloads IEEE 802.15.4 frame handling from CPU, reducing latency and power in mesh networks |
| Event System | 12-channel asynchronous event router enables peripherals (e.g., ADC → TC → DMA) to interact without CPU involvement-even in standby mode |
| SleepWalking Timers | TC/TCC modules autonomously perform periodic sampling, compare operations, or PWM generation while CPU remains in deep sleep |
| Peripheral Touch Controller | Supports up to 12 capacitive touch channels (6×2 PTC matrix); enables low-power proximity detection and slider/wheel UI without host polling |
| USB 2.0 Full-Speed | Integrated USB device/host controller with 8 endpoints; supports CDC ACM for virtual COM port debugging and DFU firmware updates |
Applications
| Smart Utility Metering | Industrial Wireless Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered gas/water meter transmitting consumption data hourly via Zigbee PRO mesh network. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary SoC executing protocol stack, managing RF link, performing RTC-based wakeup scheduling, and reading pulse-count sensors. Use Value: SleepWalking TC triggers ADC sampling only when flow is detected; hardware AES encrypts payload before transmission, meeting utility cybersecurity mandates. | Use Scenario: Vibration and temperature monitoring node on rotating machinery in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time signal acquisition front-end with synchronized ADC sampling, FFT preprocessing, and low-latency wireless reporting. Use Value: 350ksps ADC with oversampling captures high-frequency vibration spectra; TCC-generated PWM drives local status LED with fault-pattern encoding. |
| Home Automation Gateway | Medical Wearable Monitor |
Use Scenario: Sub-GHz/Zigbee bridge aggregating sensor data and forwarding to cloud via Wi-Fi/Ethernet. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role USB device (for PC configuration) and embedded host (for USB-to-serial dongles), managing concurrent SERCOM interfaces. Use Value: Five SERCOMs enable simultaneous I²C (sensor hub), SPI (display), USART (debug), and LIN (legacy HVAC control) - all coexisting with RF stack. | Use Scenario: Patch-style ECG/SpO₂ monitor with multi-day battery life and Bluetooth LE coexistence. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Signal conditioning SoC acquiring analog biopotentials, applying digital filtering, and securely transmitting encrypted health metrics. Use Value: 12-bit ADC with programmable gain amplifies µV-level ECG signals; hardware AES ensures HIPAA-compliant data confidentiality during BLE advertising. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATSAMR21G17A-MF | 48-pin QFN, 28 GPIOs, 8 ADC channels, XOSC32K integrated, SERCOM count increased to 5+1 | Required for designs needing >16 I/Os, RTC alarm with 32.768kHz crystal, or additional SERCOM for multi-interface gateways | Select when board layout accommodates larger footprint and higher peripheral count is needed; not pin-compatible with ATSAMR21E17A-MF |
| STM32WLE5JC | ARM Cortex-M4, LoRa/Sub-GHz + 2.4GHz dual-band, 256KB Flash, no integrated capacitive touch controller | Better suited for long-range LPWAN deployments requiring sub-GHz coverage; lacks PTC and SERCOM flexibility of SAM R21 | Choose for LoRaWAN end-node applications where range >1km is critical; requires different RF layout and stack integration effort |
Compared with ATSAMR21G17A-MF and STM32WLE5JC, the ATSAMR21E17A-MF provides optimal balance of compact QFN32 packaging, integrated capacitive touch capability, and hardware-accelerated IEEE 802.15.4 MAC-making it ideal for space-constrained, battery-operated edge nodes requiring both sensing and secure mesh networking.
Availability
ATSAMR21E17A-MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial sensor networks, home automation gateways, and medical wearables requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for ATSAMR21E17A-MF 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 SMART ARM-based microcontroller portfolio, including design tools, documentation, and long-term manufacturing commitments.
The SAM R21 product line was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, secure, wireless IoT edge devices-combining ARM Cortex-M0+ compute efficiency with certified 2.4GHz RF transceivers and hardware security engines.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating temperature rating for the ATSAMR21E17A-MF?
The ATSAMR21E17A-MF is rated for industrial operation from -40°C to +125°C, as indicated by the 'F' suffix in its part number. This extended temperature range supports deployment in harsh environments such as automotive under-hood modules, industrial motor controls, and outdoor utility infrastructure where ambient temperatures exceed standard commercial limits.
Does the ATSAMR21E17A-MF include an integrated 32.768kHz crystal oscillator for RTC functionality?
No, the ATSAMR21E17A-MF does not integrate the 32.768kHz crystal oscillator (XOSC32K). Per the datasheet Configuration Summary, XOSC32K is present only in SAM R21G variants. For RTC/calendar operation, ATSAMR21E17A-MF requires an external 32.768kHz crystal connected to PA00/PA01 pins.
How many ADC channels are available on the ATSAMR21E17A-MF, and what is their resolution?
The ATSAMR21E17A-MF features a 12-bit, 350ksps successive-approximation ADC with four external input channels (AIN[0]–AIN[3]). Hardware oversampling and decimation support effective resolutions up to 16 bits, and programmable gain (1x–16x) enables direct measurement of low-amplitude sensor outputs without external op-amps.
Can the ATSAMR21E17A-MF operate as both a USB device and USB host simultaneously?
Yes, the ATSAMR21E17A-MF integrates a full-speed USB 2.0 interface supporting both device and embedded host functions. It includes eight endpoints and on-chip PHY, allowing concurrent CDC ACM (virtual COM port) operation as a device while acting as a host for USB-to-serial adapters or HID peripherals-enabling flexible debug and field-service capabilities.
What RF regulatory certifications apply to the ATSAMR21E17A-MF's integrated transceiver?
The integrated AT86RF233 transceiver in ATSAMR21E17A-MF is pre-certified for FCC Part 15.247, IC RSS-247, CE RED, and ETSI EN 300 328 compliance when used with approved antennas and reference layouts. Final system-level certification remains the responsibility of the end-equipment manufacturer, but the module-level RF design reduces validation effort and time-to-market.
ATSAMR21E17A-MF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- SMART™ SAM R21
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 802.15.4, General ISM > 1GHz
- Protocol:
- -
- Modulation:
- O-QPSK
- Frequency:
- 2.4GHz
- Data Rate (Max):
- 250kbps
- Power - Output:
- 4dBm
- Sensitivity:
- -99dBm
- Memory Size:
- 128kB Flash, 16kB SRAM
- Serial Interfaces:
- I2C, SPI, UART, USART, USB
- GPIO:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Receiving:
- 11.3mA ~ 11.8mA
- Current - Transmitting:
- 7.2mA ~ 13.8mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-QFN (5x5)
ATSAMR21E17A-MF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATSAMR21E17A-MF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATSAMR21E17A-MF 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 ATSAMR21E17A-MF reliable?
The price and inventory of ATSAMR21E17A-MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATSAMR21E17A-MF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATSAMR21E17A-MF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATSAMR21E17A-MF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATSAMR21E17A-MF?
ATSAMR21E17A-MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATSAMR21E17A-MF 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 ATSAMR21E17A-MF?
For technical support, including ATSAMR21E17A-MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATSAMR21E17A-MF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATSAMR21E17A-MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATSAMR21E17A-MF 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 ATSAMR21E17A-MF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATSAMR21E17A-MF?
All ATSAMR21E17A-MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATSAMR21E17A-MF, 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 ATSAMR21E17A-MF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATSAMR21E17A-MF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
ATSAMR21E17A-MF Tags
-
ESP32-D0WD-V3
Espressif Systems
-
ESP8266EX
Espressif Systems
-
ESP32-S3
Espressif Systems
-
NRF24L01P-R7
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
NRF24L01P-R
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
ESP32-U4WDH
Espressif Systems
-
DA14531-00000OG2
Renesas
-
ESP32-C6FH4
Espressif Systems
-
DA14531-00000FX2
Renesas
-
NRF24L01P-T
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
NRF52810-QCAA-R
Nordic Semiconductor ASA
-
ESP32-S3FN8
Espressif Systems
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
