ATMEGA8L-8MI

Overview

The ATMEGA8L-8MI is a low-power CMOS 8-bit microcontroller based on the AVR RISC architecture, manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an advanced RISC core with 130 powerful instructions, most executing in a single clock cycle, and utilizes 32 general-purpose working registers. The device includes 8K bytes of In-System Self-Programmable Flash, 512 bytes of EEPROM, and 1K byte of internal SRAM. Operating at speeds up to 8 MHz with a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V, it integrates three flexible Timer/Counters, a serial USART, SPI, TWI interfaces, and an 8-channel 10-bit ADC specific to TQFP and MLF packages.

Feature Summary

• Advanced RISC Architecture: Executes powerful instructions in a single clock cycle for high throughput approaching 1 MIPS per MHz.
• Non-volatile Memory System: Provides 8K bytes of self-programmable Flash with Read-While-Write capabilities, 512 bytes of EEPROM, and 1K byte of SRAM.
• Peripheral Integration: Includes three Timer/Counters, an 8-channel ADC (TQFP/MLF), programmable Watchdog Timer, and multiple serial communication interfaces.
• Power Management: Supports five software-selectable power-saving modes, including Power-down and Idle, to optimize consumption versus processing speed.

Applications

• Embedded control systems requiring low power consumption
• Battery-powered consumer electronics
• Industrial monitoring and automation devices
• Smart home appliances and sensors

Procurement Notes

Verify the exact package type and suffix against official Microchip documentation before ordering, as suffixes define physical form factor and temperature grade. Confirm current lifecycle status, as older AVR models may be marked NRND or obsolete. Ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints for the specific MLF or TQFP variant selected. Check for RoHS compliance requirements if applicable to your manufacturing standards.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a balance of moderate processing speed and low power consumption is required for 8-bit applications. The ATmega8L variant is suitable for designs operating below 5V, specifically down to 2.7V. Consider the MLF package for space-constrained surface-mount designs. Evaluate peripheral needs such as the number of ADC channels available in the specific package version.

Part Context

The ATMEGA8L-8MI belongs to the AVR ATmega family of 8-bit microcontrollers produced by Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel). This series is known for its efficient RISC architecture and extensive peripheral integration within small packages. The 'L' suffix denotes the low-voltage operational capability, while '8' indicates the maximum clock frequency rating. The 'MI' suffix typically refers to the specific MLF package configuration.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements include other variants within the ATmega8 family such as ATMEGA8L-8MU or ATMEGA8L-8PU, depending on the required package type (MLF vs PDIP). Cross-referencing pinouts and electrical characteristics is essential when substituting between different package styles within the same functional family.

FAQ

How many ADC channels are available in the ATMEGA8L-8MI?

The ATMEGA8L-8MI, being an MLF package variant, supports 8-channel analog-to-digital conversion with 10-bit accuracy.

What is the maximum operating frequency for the ATMEGA8L-8MI?

The maximum operating frequency for the ATMEGA8L series is 8 MHz.

Does the ATMEGA8L-8MI support In-System Programming?

Yes, the device features 8K bytes of In-System Self-Programmable Flash memory that can be reprogrammed via the SPI interface or an on-chip boot program.