Microchip ATMEGA168A-AU Datasheet and Technical Specifications

The Microchip ATMEGA168A-AU is a high-performance, low-power 8-bit AVR RISC-based microcontroller that combines 16KB of in-system programmable flash memory with read-while-write capabilities, 1KB of SRAM, and 512B of EEPROM. This robust IC is part of the widely acclaimed ATmega family, designed for a broad range of embedded control applications, including industrial systems, consumer electronics, and automotive control.

Housed in a 32-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) package, the ATMEGA168A-AU offers a compact form factor suitable for space-constrained PCB designs. At its core lies the advanced AVR architecture, which can execute powerful instructions in a single clock cycle, achieving a throughput of up to 20 MIPS at 20 MHz. This enables system designers to optimize power consumption versus processing speed effectively.

The device operates over a wide voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, making it exceptionally versatile for both battery-powered and line-operated applications. Its sophisticated power management framework includes multiple sleep modes, such as Idle, Power-down, and Standby, which are crucial for minimizing power consumption in active and inactive states.

A key strength of the ATMEGA168A-AU is its rich set of peripheral features. It includes 26 programmable I/O lines, a 10-bit ADC with up to 8 channels, two 8-bit timer/counters, one 16-bit timer/counter, and hardware-based serial communication interfaces (USART, SPI, and I2C). It also boasts an internal calibrated oscillator, reducing the need for external components and simplifying board design.

For development and debugging, the microcontroller supports In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) and a debugWIRE interface for on-chip debugging. Its endurance is also notable, with the flash memory and EEPROM rated for 10,000 write/erase cycles.

ICGOOODFIND: The ATMEGA168A-AU stands out as a balanced and cost-effective solution for complex embedded projects, offering an optimal blend of processing power, energy efficiency, and extensive integrated peripherals.

Keywords: AVR Microcontroller, Embedded Systems, Low-Power Design, In-System Programming, Peripheral Integration.