ATMEGA8A-AN

Overview

The ATMEGA8A-AN is a low-power CMOS 8-bit microcontroller based on the AVR RISC architecture, manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an 8K byte In-System Programmable Flash memory, 512 bytes of EEPROM, and 1K byte of SRAM. The device operates with a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz and supports a supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V. It includes 23 programmable I/O lines and is housed in a 32-lead TQFP package. The component supports industrial temperature ranges up to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Advanced RISC Architecture: Executes powerful instructions in a single clock cycle for high throughput approaching 1 MIPS per MHz.
• High Endurance Non-volatile Memory: Features 10,000 write/erase cycles for Flash and 100,000 cycles for EEPROM with significant data retention capabilities.
• Capacitive Touch Support: Includes native support for the Microchip QTouch library for capacitive touch buttons, sliders, and wheels.
• Flexible Peripheral Set: Integrates multiple Timer/Counters, a 10-bit ADC, USART, SPI, and Two-wire Serial Interface.

Applications

• Embedded systems requiring low power consumption and moderate processing speed
• Applications utilizing capacitive touch sensing interfaces via QTouch library
• Industrial control modules operating within standard temperature ranges

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'AN' against the manufacturer's current datasheet to confirm package type and temperature grade. Confirm the component lifecycle status, as this part may be designated as Not Recommended for New Designs (NRND). Ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints for the 32-lead TQFP package before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this model when a cost-effective 8-bit AVR solution with integrated capacitive touch capabilities is required. It is suitable for designs needing Read-While-Write Flash operations and robust non-volatile memory endurance. Consider alternative packages if through-hole mounting or different pin counts are necessary.

Part Context

The ATmega8A belongs to the megaAVR family, representing an enhanced version of the legacy ATmega8 series. It maintains software and hardware compatibility with previous generations while offering improved performance and additional features like QTouch support. This lineage ensures broad ecosystem support and established design resources.

Replacement Considerations

Microchip Technology lists the ATmega88PB as a potential replacement option. Verify functional equivalence regarding pinout, memory size, and peripheral availability before substitution.

FAQ

Does the ATMEGA8A-AN support capacitive touch sensing?

Yes, the device provides native support for the Microchip QTouch library, enabling the implementation of capacitive touch buttons, sliders, and wheels.

What is the flash memory endurance rating?

The 8K byte Flash program memory supports up to 10,000 write/erase cycles.