Microchip Technology ATSAMR21E17A-MUT
- Part No.:
- ATSAMR21E17A-MUT
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU ISM>1GHZ 32QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,525
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT 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 2.14 CoreMark/MHz performance and supports SleepWalking peripherals for autonomous low-power operation in battery-powered IoT sensor nodes.
For engineers reviewing the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT datasheet, ATSAMR21E17A-MUT pinout, ATSAMR21E17A-MUT application, or ATSAMR21E17A-MUT equivalent, key selection criteria include its QFN32 package, integrated RF transceiver with -99dBm RX sensitivity and +4dBm TX output, hardware-assisted MAC, AES security engine, and SERCOM-configurable interfaces for Zigbee/Thread/proprietary 2.4GHz protocols.
Technical Context
The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT implements a single-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor with Thumb-2 ISA, Micro Trace Buffer, and two-cycle debug interface. Its system architecture features three independent clock domains (GCLK generators including DFLL48M and FDPLL96M), enabling per-peripheral frequency optimization to minimize active power while sustaining CPU performance.
It integrates a dedicated 12-channel Event System for inter-peripheral signaling without CPU involvement, supporting synchronous/asynchronous event routing even in standby mode. The embedded AT86RF233-derived transceiver includes hardware CRC-16, SFD detection, antenna diversity control, and 128-byte TX/RX frame buffers - all accessible via dedicated FECTRL pins and SERCOM4.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M0+, 48MHz max - enables deterministic real-time control with 2.14 CoreMark/MHz efficiency |
| Memory | 128KB Flash / 16KB SRAM - sufficient for Zigbee PRO stack + application logic in compact footprint |
| RF Transceiver | 2.4GHz ISM band, 250kB/s data rate, -99dBm RX sensitivity, +4dBm TX output - meets IEEE 802.15.4 link budget requirements |
| Power Modes | Idle and standby sleep modes with SleepWalking - allows peripherals to execute tasks autonomously while CPU remains off |
| Analog Peripherals | 4-channel 12-bit ADC (350ksps), 2 analog comparators, PTC for 12-button capacitive touch - supports sensor fusion and HMI in edge nodes |
| Digital Interfaces | 4 SERCOMs (configurable as USART/I²C/SPI/LIN), USB 2.0 FS host/device, 16 GPIOs - provides flexible connectivity for sensor aggregation and gateway bridging |
| Security | Hardware AES-128 engine and true random number generator - enables secure over-the-air updates and device authentication |
Pinout & Package
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT is housed in a 32-pin QFN package (5mm × 5mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad connected to GND. The package complies with JEDEC MO-220, MSL3, and supports standard reflow per J-STD-20.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PA00–PA01 | XOSC32K input/output | Connect external 32.768kHz crystal for RTC accuracy; not present on E-variant per datasheet Table 4-2 |
| PA14–PA15 | XOSCRF XTAL1/XTAL2 | Drive internal 16MHz RF oscillator for transceiver timing - requires external crystal |
| PA17–PA18 | RFP/RFN | Differential RF antenna interface - matched 50Ω layout critical for -99dBm sensitivity |
| PA24–PA25 | USB_DP/USB_DM | Full-speed USB 2.0 differential pair - enables firmware updates and debug without external PHY |
| PA30–PA31 | SWCLK/SWDIO | Two-pin Serial Wire Debug interface - supports non-intrusive flash programming and real-time trace |
| PB02–PB03 | AIN[10]–AIN[11] | Analog inputs for 12-bit ADC - support single-ended or differential acquisition with programmable gain |
| PA06–PA07 | SERCOM0 PAD[2]–PAD[3] | Configurable UART/SPI/I²C interface - used for external sensor communication or bootloader interface |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware-assisted MAC | Auto-acknowledge and auto-retry reduce host CPU overhead by >40% in mesh network packet handling |
| SleepWalking peripherals | RTC alarm or ADC conversion completion can wake specific peripherals - eliminates polling and extends battery life |
| Event System (12 channels) | Enables zero-latency peripheral-to-peripheral triggering (e.g., TC overflow → ADC start) without software intervention |
| Configurable SERCOMs (4 instances) | Each SERCOM supports I²C up to 3.4MHz or SPI with DMA - simplifies integration of diverse sensors and radios |
| Peripheral Touch Controller (PTC) | Supports 6×2 X/Y matrix for 12-button touch interface - eliminates external touch controller IC in HMI designs |
Applications
| Smart Lighting Node | Wireless Sensor Hub |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered LED driver node in DALI-2/Zigbee lighting control system. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCU + RF transceiver managing PWM dimming, ambient light sensing, and 2.4GHz mesh networking. Use Value: Integrated TCC timers generate synchronized multi-channel PWM with dead-time control; SleepWalking wakes ADC only when lux threshold crossed. | Use Scenario: Industrial temperature/humidity/vibration sensor aggregating data from multiple analog and digital sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central processing and RF transmission unit with hardware CRC and AES encryption for secure OTA updates. Use Value: Four SERCOMs interface I²C temp/humid sensors, SPI vibration ADC, and UART debug port simultaneously; 128KB Flash stores dual-application images. |
| Home Automation Gateway | Asset Tracking Tag |
Use Scenario: Sub-GHz to 2.4GHz protocol bridge connecting legacy Z-Wave devices to Thread border routers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role USB device/host enabling PC configuration and embedded host control of external radios. Use Value: USB FS interface allows direct connection to Raspberry Pi host; SERCOM4 hardwired to AT86RF233 enables concurrent 2.4GHz and sub-GHz operation. | Use Scenario: GPS-denied indoor location tag using RSSI-based triangulation across fixed anchor nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Ultra-low-power beacon transmitter with scheduled wake-up, RF transmit, and deep-sleep cycling. Use Value: Standby current <1.5µA with RTC wake-up; +4dBm TX output ensures reliable 30m indoor range; hardware AES secures beacon payload. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATSAMR21G17A-MUT | 48-pin QFN, 28 GPIOs, 5 SERCOMs, 8-channel ADC, XOSC32K support | Required for designs needing RTC calendar alarms or more analog inputs | Select when additional I/O, SERCOM count, or 32.768kHz crystal support is required |
| ESP32-WROOM-32 | Wi-Fi + Bluetooth SoC, 4MB Flash, dual-core Xtensa LX6, no native USB device | Better suited for cloud-connected applications requiring Wi-Fi throughput >1Mbps | Choose for high-bandwidth local/cloud connectivity; avoid if IEEE 802.15.4 compliance or ultra-low-power sleep is mandatory |
Compared with ATSAMR21G17A-MUT, the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT reduces PCB area and BOM cost via 32-pin QFN and fewer peripherals, while maintaining identical RF performance and core architecture; versus ESP32-WROOM-32, it offers superior RF sensitivity (-99dBm vs -90dBm) and lower active current (1.5mA/MHz vs ~3mA/MHz), making it optimal for long-life battery-powered 2.4GHz mesh nodes.
Availability
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor networks, smart lighting controls, and industrial telemetry systems requiring stable component supply, full production traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT 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 SAM portfolio, delivering robust, qualified silicon for industrial and automotive applications.
The SAM R21 product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power 2.4GHz wireless embedded systems, combining ARM Cortex-M0+ compute efficiency with integrated IEEE 802.15.4-compliant RF and hardware security engines.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency and process technology of the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT?
The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT operates at a maximum frequency of 48MHz using a low-power CMOS process optimized for energy efficiency. Its ARM Cortex-M0+ core achieves 2.14 CoreMark/MHz, and the device supports dynamic voltage scaling between 1.8V and 3.6V to further reduce active power consumption in varying workload conditions. This makes the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT well-suited for battery-powered applications where sustained performance and minimal energy draw are critical design goals.
Does the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT include an integrated RF transceiver, and what standards does it support?
Yes, the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT integrates an ultra-low-power 2.4GHz ISM-band transceiver derived from the AT86RF233, supporting IEEE 802.15.4 physical layer with 250kB/s data rate, -99dBm RX sensitivity, and +4dBm TX output. It includes hardware-assisted MAC functions (auto-acknowledge, auto-retry), CRC-16, SFD detection, and antenna diversity control. The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT does not natively support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi but is compatible with Zigbee, Thread, and proprietary 2.4GHz protocols through software stack implementation.
What debug and programming interfaces are supported by the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT?
The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT supports two-pin Serial Wire Debug (SWD) via PA30 (SWCLK) and PA31 (SWDIO), enabling non-intrusive on-chip debugging, flash programming, and real-time trace using the Micro Trace Buffer (MTB). It also supports in-system programming via the SWD interface without requiring external debug probes beyond standard CMSIS-DAP or J-Link adapters. The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT does not include JTAG support, and its debug interface is fully compliant with ARM CoreSight specifications for Cortex-M0+.
How many SERCOM modules does the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT provide, and what interfaces can they be configured as?
The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT provides four SERCOM modules (SERCOM0–SERCOM3), each configurable as USART, UART, SPI, I²C (up to 3.4MHz), or LIN slave. SERCOM4 is internally hardwired to the AT86RF233 transceiver and not available for general-purpose use. Each SERCOM supports DMA, configurable baud rates, and flexible pin multiplexing - allowing simultaneous use of multiple serial protocols (e.g., I²C for sensors, SPI for external memory, UART for debug) without resource conflict. This flexibility is essential for the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT's role in heterogeneous sensor node designs.
What power management features enable ultra-low-power operation in the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT?
The ATSAMR21E17A-MUT supports two primary low-power modes: idle (CPU halted, peripherals active) and standby (all clocks stopped except selected ones). Its SleepWalking capability allows peripherals like RTC, ADC, or TC to operate autonomously and trigger events without waking the CPU - reducing average current to sub-µA levels in duty-cycled applications. Combined with multiple clock domains and configurable voltage scaling (1.8V–3.6V), these features make the ATSAMR21E17A-MUT ideal for multi-year battery life in wireless sensor deployments.
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- SMART™ SAM R21
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- TxRx + MCU
- RF Family/Standard:
- 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 ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-QFN (5x5)
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT 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-MUT reliable?
The price and inventory of ATSAMR21E17A-MUT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT?
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATSAMR21E17A-MUT 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-MUT?
For technical support, including ATSAMR21E17A-MUT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATSAMR21E17A-MUT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATSAMR21E17A-MUT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATSAMR21E17A-MUT 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-MUT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATSAMR21E17A-MUT?
All ATSAMR21E17A-MUT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATSAMR21E17A-MUT, 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-MUT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATSAMR21E17A-MUT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
ATSAMR21E17A-MUT 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…

