Microchip Technology ATSTK502

Overview

ATSTK502 from Atmel is an AVR microcontroller expansion board designed exclusively for the ATmega169V and ATmega169L devices with integrated LCD controller, supporting both serial in-system programming and parallel high-voltage programming, featuring an on-board 32 kHz crystal, NTC thermistor-based temperature sensor, and a 120-segment LCD display for real-time monitoring demonstrations.

For engineers reviewing the ATSTK502 datasheet, ATSTK502 pinout, ATSTK502 application, or ATSTK502 equivalent, key considerations include JTAG ICE debugging support, TQFP socket compatibility, STK500 integration, LCD driver demonstration capability, and low-power operation across 1.8–5.5 V target voltage range.

Technical Context

The ATSTK502 functions as a hardware extension to the STK500 development system, enabling full evaluation of the ATmega169's on-chip LCD controller, JTAG debug interface, and temperature-sensing peripherals. It provides dedicated connectors for external LCD modules, expansion plug-in modules, and emulator adapters via TQFP footprint.

It integrates a pre-programmed temperature monitoring application (AVR064) and LCD driver reference implementation (AVR065), both validated for ATmega169V/L operation. Power is supplied solely by the host STK500 board, eliminating independent power supply requirements.

Key Specifications

Availability

ATSTK502 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for AVR microcontroller development, LCD controller evaluation, and embedded temperature monitoring applications requiring stable component supply and legacy design continuity.

Supply support for ATSTK502 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

Atmel Corporation, now part of Microchip Technology, was a leading designer of microcontrollers, nonvolatile memory, and analog semiconductors, headquartered in San Jose, CA.

The STK502 belongs to Atmel's AVR starter kit expansion product line, created specifically to extend STK500 functionality for ATmega169-based LCD and low-power embedded designs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ATSTK502?

The ATSTK502 is a hardware expansion board that adds full support for the ATmega169V and ATmega169L microcontrollers to the STK500 development system. It enables evaluation of the device's integrated LCD controller, JTAG debugging, temperature sensing, and low-voltage operation. The ATSTK502 is not a standalone board - it requires connection to an STK500 base unit to operate.

Does the ATSTK502 include a microcontroller?

No, the ATSTK502 does not include a microcontroller. It is a passive expansion board with a ZIF socket for inserting ATmega169V or ATmega169L devices. Users must supply their own ATmega169 chip, which is programmed and debugged via the STK500 host and JTAG ICE tools. The ATSTK502 itself contains no active silicon beyond passive components and sensors.

Can the ATSTK502 be used without the STK500?

No, the ATSTK502 cannot operate independently. It draws all power and communication signals from the STK500 base unit via its expansion connector. There is no onboard power regulation, USB interface, or standalone programming capability. The ATSTK502 is strictly an add-on module - its functionality is fully dependent on the STK500 platform and AVR Studio software environment.

What LCD display is supported by the ATSTK502?

The ATSTK502 includes a generic 120-segment LCD display with six 14-segment characters plus additional status segments, pre-wired for direct use with the ATmega169's on-chip LCD controller. It also provides an LCD display header for connecting external LCD modules compatible with the ATmega169's segment drive architecture, as documented in application note AVR065.

Is the ATSTK502 still supported by current development tools?

Yes, the ATSTK502 remains compatible with modern versions of Microchip's legacy AVR toolchain, including updated AVR Studio derivatives and Atmel-ICE (via adapter). While newer kits have superseded it, the ATSTK502's hardware design and application notes (AVR064, AVR065) are fully functional with current software. The ATSTK502 continues to serve as a reference for ATmega169 LCD and low-power peripheral integration.