My Inquiry
My Account
Microchip Technology ATSAMR21G17A-MU
- Part No.:
- ATSAMR21G17A-MU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Transceiver ICs
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ATSAMR21G17A-MU.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF TXRX+MCU ISM>1GHZ 48QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,773
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
ATSAMR21G17A-MU 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 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 ATSAMR21G17A-MU datasheet, ATSAMR21G17A-MU pinout, ATSAMR21G17A-MU application, or ATSAMR21G17A-MU equivalent, key selection criteria include its QFN48 package with 28 GPIOs, integrated RF transceiver (−99dBm RX sensitivity, +4dBm TX), hardware-assisted MAC, AES-128 security engine, and dual-clock domain architecture enabling independent peripheral clock scaling.
Technical Context
The ATSAMR21G17A-MU implements a single-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor with Thumb-2 ISA, Micro Trace Buffer (MTB), and single-cycle hardware multiplier. Its system architecture features three AHB-APB bridges, a 12-channel DMA controller, and a 12-channel Event System supporting synchronous/asynchronous peripheral event routing-even in standby mode.
RF functionality is delivered via an integrated AT86RF233-derived 2.4GHz transceiver with hardware-accelerated frame handling (SFD detection, CRC-16, auto-acknowledge, auto-retry), 128-byte TX/RX buffers, and antenna diversity control. Clocking includes DFLL48M and FDPLL96M PLLs, plus dedicated 16MHz RF crystal oscillator (XOSCRF) and 32.768kHz RTC oscillator (XOSC32K).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M0+, 48MHz max - enables deterministic real-time control with Thumb-2 instruction set compatibility and low gate count. |
| Memory | 128KB Flash / 16KB SRAM - sufficient for Zigbee/Thread stack + application firmware with in-system reprogramming via SWD. |
| RF Transceiver | 2.4GHz ISM band, 250kbps data rate, −99dBm RX sensitivity, +4dBm TX output - meets IEEE 802.15.4 PHY requirements for robust short-range mesh networking. |
| Power Management | Idle & standby sleep modes; SleepWalking peripherals - allows autonomous ADC sampling or timer-triggered RF wake-up without CPU intervention, extending battery life in sensor endpoints. |
| Analog Peripherals | 8-channel 12-bit 350ksps ADC with programmable gain (1/2x–16x), oversampling to 16-bit resolution - supports high-accuracy environmental sensing with on-chip calibration. |
| Security | AES-128 encryption engine + True Random Number Generator - provides hardware-accelerated cryptographic operations for secure over-the-air updates and device authentication. |
| Operating Range | 1.8V–3.6V supply, −40°C to +85°C industrial grade - suitable for unregulated battery-powered deployments in harsh environments. |
Pinout & Package
ATSAMR21G17A-MU is housed in a 48-pin QFN package (7mm × 7mm, 0.5mm pitch) with an exposed thermal pad internally connected to GND. The pad must be soldered to PCB ground for mechanical stability and thermal performance; it is not a functional signal pin.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| PA00 / PA01 | XIN32 / XOUT32 | 32.768kHz crystal oscillator inputs for RTC calendar accuracy and low-power timekeeping. |
| XTAL1 / XTAL2 | 16MHz crystal oscillator | Dedicated RF crystal interface for stable 2.4GHz carrier generation; no software multiplexing. |
| RFP / RFN | Differential RF antenna interface | 50Ω matched differential outputs feeding external balun or RF front-end; requires impedance-controlled layout. |
| PA30 / PA31 | SWCLK / SWDIO | Two-pin Serial Wire Debug interface - supports non-intrusive flash programming and real-time debugging without JTAG overhead. |
| PA14 / PA15 | SERCOM4 / AT86RF233 interface | Hardwired SPI connection to internal transceiver; pins reserved exclusively for RF control (no alternate functions). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware-assisted MAC | Enables IEEE 802.15.4-compliant frame handling (auto-ACK, auto-retry, CRC-16) without CPU load, reducing latency and power in mesh networks. |
| Atmel Event System | 12-channel peripheral-to-peripheral signaling path - eliminates CPU polling and ISR overhead for time-critical tasks like PWM-triggered ADC capture. |
| Peripheral Touch Controller (PTC) | Supports up to 48 capacitive touch channels - enables robust human interface design (buttons, sliders, proximity) with noise immunity and low-power scanning. |
| Flexible SERCOM modules | 5 configurable serial interfaces (USART/I2C/SPI/LIN) - simplifies connectivity to sensors, displays, and legacy peripherals without external level shifters or protocol converters. |
| Dual-clock domain architecture | Independent GCLK generators per peripheral - allows high-speed USB (48MHz) and low-power RTC (32.768kHz) to run simultaneously, optimizing system-level energy efficiency. |
Applications
| Smart Home Sensor Node | Industrial Wireless Monitor |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity/motion sensor reporting to a gateway every 5 minutes via Zigbee. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary MCU + integrated RF transceiver; RTC triggers periodic wake-up; SleepWalking ADC samples sensor data autonomously before RF transmission. Use Value: Eliminates external transceiver and timing components, reducing BOM cost and PCB area while achieving >5-year battery life on two AA cells. | Use Scenario: Vibration and temperature monitoring on rotating machinery with edge analytics and alert-based transmission. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time data acquisition host; TCC timers generate precise PWM excitation for piezoelectric sensors; hardware CRC validates integrity before RF upload. Use Value: On-chip signal conditioning and secure RF transmission reduce latency and eliminate external FPGA or DSP, accelerating time-to-deployment. |
| Medical Wearable Tracker | Asset Tracking Tag |
Use Scenario: Low-power wearable tracking vital signs (ECG, SpO₂) and transmitting encrypted data to a smartphone via BLE-compatible 802.15.4 stack. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure sensor hub; AES engine encrypts biometric data pre-transmission; PTC enables touchless gesture control. Use Value: Hardware crypto acceleration meets HIPAA-aligned data protection requirements without sacrificing battery runtime or adding discrete security ICs. | Use Scenario: GPS-denied indoor asset tag using RSSI-based localization and periodic beaconing in warehouse logistics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Location-aware endpoint; Event System synchronizes UWB pulse timing with RF transmit; TC3 captures precise timestamp of received anchor signals. Use Value: Integrated timing and RF subsystem ensures sub-meter localization accuracy with <10μs timestamp jitter, eliminating external timing ICs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wireless microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATSAMR21G18A-MU | 256KB Flash / 32KB SRAM vs. 128KB/16KB - doubles code space for complex stacks or OTA update partitioning. | Required for full Thread/Zigbee 3.0 certification with bootloader + application + NVM storage. | Select when firmware complexity exceeds 128KB or dual-bank OTA updates are mandatory. |
| STM32WLE5JC | Sub-GHz + 2.4GHz dual-band radio, LoRa modulation support, no integrated PTC or SERCOM flexibility. | Better suited for long-range LPWAN (LoRaWAN) than short-range mesh; lacks capacitive touch and advanced timer control. | Choose for wide-area coverage in smart metering where range outweighs local UI or motor control needs. |
Compared with ATSAMR21G17A-MU, the G18A variant offers headroom for future firmware expansion and certified stack deployment, while the STM32WLE5JC trades rich MCU peripherals for superior RF link budget and LoRa compatibility-making each optimal for distinct network topology and feature-set priorities.
Availability
ATSAMR21G17A-MU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart home sensor nodes, industrial wireless monitors, medical wearables, and asset tracking tags requiring stable component supply and long-term production support.
Supply support for ATSAMR21G17A-MU 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 the SMART ARM portfolio with full backward compatibility and long-term commitment to industrial-grade microcontrollers.
The SAM R21 product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, RF-integrated IoT edge devices-emphasizing hardware-accelerated security, autonomous peripheral operation, and seamless migration across Flash/SRAM variants within the same pinout family.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency and CoreMark performance of the ATSAMR21G17A-MU?
The ATSAMR21G17A-MU operates at a maximum CPU frequency of 48MHz and achieves 2.14 CoreMark/MHz, delivering 102.72 CoreMark total. This benchmark reflects efficient Thumb-2 execution and single-cycle I/O access, validated under typical industrial voltage (3.3V) and temperature (25°C) conditions per the official Atmel-42223AS datasheet summary.
Does the ATSAMR21G17A-MU include hardware security features?
Yes, the ATSAMR21G17A-MU integrates a dedicated AES-128 encryption engine and True Random Number Generator (TRNG). These hardware blocks enable secure boot, encrypted firmware updates, and authenticated communication without consuming CPU cycles-critical for meeting IoT security standards like PSA Level 1 certification.
What RF capabilities does the ATSAMR21G17A-MU support out of the box?
The ATSAMR21G17A-MU includes a fully integrated 2.4GHz ISM band transceiver compliant with IEEE 802.15.4 PHY/MAC, supporting 250kbps O-QPSK modulation, −99dBm RX sensitivity, and +4dBm TX output. Hardware-assisted features include auto-acknowledge, auto-retry, SFD detection, and CRC-16 computation-enabling robust Zigbee or custom mesh stack implementation.
How many GPIO pins are available on the ATSAMR21G17A-MU in its QFN48 package?
The ATSAMR21G17A-MU provides 28 programmable general-purpose I/O pins (GPIOs) in its 48-pin QFN package. These pins support multiple peripheral functions via configurable multiplexing (SERCOM, TC, TCC, ADC, PTC, etc.) and include dedicated hardware features like external interrupt capability (15 lines) and analog input channels (8 ADC, 2 AC).
Is the ATSAMR21G17A-MU pin-compatible with other SAM R21 variants?
Yes, all SAM R21G variants-including ATSAMR21G16A-MU, ATSAMR21G17A-MU, and ATSAMR21G18A-MU-are pin-compatible within the QFN48 package. They share identical pinouts, peripheral mappings, and power/ground configurations, enabling seamless Flash/SRAM scalability without PCB redesign or firmware porting effort.
ATSAMR21G17A-MU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- SMART™ SAM R21
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- 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:
- 28
- 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:
- 48-QFN (7x7)
ATSAMR21G17A-MU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATSAMR21G17A-MU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATSAMR21G17A-MU 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 ATSAMR21G17A-MU reliable?
The price and inventory of ATSAMR21G17A-MU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATSAMR21G17A-MU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATSAMR21G17A-MU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATSAMR21G17A-MU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATSAMR21G17A-MU?
ATSAMR21G17A-MU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATSAMR21G17A-MU 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 ATSAMR21G17A-MU?
For technical support, including ATSAMR21G17A-MU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATSAMR21G17A-MU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATSAMR21G17A-MU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATSAMR21G17A-MU 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 ATSAMR21G17A-MU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATSAMR21G17A-MU?
All ATSAMR21G17A-MU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATSAMR21G17A-MU, 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 ATSAMR21G17A-MU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATSAMR21G17A-MU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
ATSAMR21G17A-MU 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…
