ATPL250A-AKU-R

Application Specific Microcontrollers Overview

The ATPL250A-AKU-R is a G3-PLC modem manufactured by Microchip Technology, housed in an 80-lead LQFP package. It implements G3 CENELEC-A, FCC, and ARIB profiles compliant with ITU-T G.9903. The device features an embedded PLC Analog Front End (AFE) and requires only an external Class D Line Driver for signal injection. It operates on a 3.0V to 3.6V VDDIO supply and supports an ambient temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. Communication with an external MCU is handled via a 4-line SPI interface plus an interrupt line.

Application Specific Microcontrollers Feature Summary

• Implements G3-PLC coherent and differential modulation schemes for 50 Hz and 60 Hz mains networks.
• Includes Automatic Gain Control (AGC) and continuous amplitude tracking for signal reception.
• Features an integrated Zero Cross Detector supporting 50 Hz and 60 Hz detection with ±10% error margin.
• Provides one SPI peripheral (slave) interface for control by an external microcontroller.

Application Specific Microcontrollers Applications

• Smart Metering systems including Smart Meters and Data Concentrators.
• Lighting control and Industrial/Home Automation networks.
• Home and Building Energy Management Systems.
• Solar Energy monitoring and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Charging Stations.

Application Specific Microcontrollers Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix 'R' corresponds to Tape and Reel packaging as specified in the datasheet. Confirm the 'AKU' designation indicates the 80 LQFP package with Lead-free composition and Industrial temperature grade. Ensure compatibility with the required external crystal oscillator specifications for G3 compliance.

Application Specific Microcontrollers Selection Notes

Select this component when a dedicated G3-PLC PHY layer is required for Smart Grid applications. An external Atmel MCU must be paired to manage the PHY layer using the provided library. Designers must account for the need for an external Class D amplifier and coupling circuitry, as the ATPL250A does not include the line driver stage.

Application Specific Microcontrollers Part Context

The ATPL250A belongs to the ATPL Series Power Line Communications devices from Microchip (formerly Atmel). It is designed to be bundled with an external microcontroller rather than functioning as a standalone system-on-chip. The 'AKU-R' variant specifically denotes the industrial temperature range version supplied in tape and reel format for automated assembly.

Application Specific Microcontrollers Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers are not available in the provided documentation. Verify if other members of the ATPL series or updated G3-PLC modems from Microchip meet specific regulatory profile requirements before substitution.