ATMEGA1608-XFR - 8-bit AVR MCU 20MHz 16KB Flash | Microchip
MPN: ATMEGA1608-XFR β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.05 | $1.05 |
| 10 | $0.95 | $9.50 |
| 100 | $0.82 | $82.00 |
| 500 | $0.74 | $370.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.66 | $660.00 |
ATMEGA1608-XFR Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single integrated circuit that combines a processor core, program memory, data memory, and peripherals such as timers, communication interfaces, and analog-to-digital converters. The megaAVR 0-series sits in the 8-bit microcontroller hierarchy alongside families like PIC and 8051 architectures, occupying the general-purpose embedded control tier used in everything from consumer appliances to industrial automation nodes.
Key features of the ATmega1608 include a 20 MHz maximum clock frequency, 16 KB of in-system-programmable Flash memory, 2 KB SRAM, and 256 bytes of EEPROM for non-volatile parameter storage. The AVR architecture executes most instructions in a single cycle, delivering efficient MIPS-per-MHz performance, while the integrated hardware multiplier accelerates math-intensive embedded routines. The 0-series also brings Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that offload tasks from the CPU.
Technically, the megaAVR 0-series uses the latest AVR core with a two-stage pipeline, single-cycle I/O access, and a rich peripheral set including multiple USARTs, SPI, TWI (I2C), timers, and analog comparators. The XFR ordering code denotes the 28-SSOP package variant supplied in tape and reel for automated assembly, supporting high-volume SMT production lines. The family is available in 28- and 32-pin packages, and Microchip designates parts of this series with Functional Safety (FuSa) documentation support, aiding IEC 61508-oriented designs.
Typical applications include industrial control nodes, home appliances, IoT sensor endpoints, motor control assist circuits, and consumer electronics where a cost-sensitive 5V or 3.3V 8-bit controller with adequate Flash headroom is required. The 16 KB Flash tier suits code bases that outgrow ATmega808 designs without jumping to the 32 KB ATmega3208.
When designing with this device, budget the Flash and SRAM carefully: 16 KB Flash accommodates structured C applications, but communication stacks consume memory quickly, so verify linker output against the 2 KB SRAM limit early in development.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing context, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes beyond what the manufacturer product page alone provides, giving engineers a single citation-ready reference for the ATMEGA1608-XFR.
Drop-in alternatives for ATMEGA1608-XFR β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ATMEGA3208-XF
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATMEGA808-XF
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATMEGA3208-XFR
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATMEGA808-XFR
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATMEGA1608-XF
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATMEGA1608-XFR Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | AVR (8-bit) with hardware multiplier |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Speed | 20 MHz |
| Flash Memory | 16 KB (16K x 8) |
| SRAM | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Series | megaAVR 0-series (Functional Safety / FuSa) |
| Package | 28-SSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (R suffix) |
| Program Memory Type | FLASH (In-System Programmable) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
ATMEGA1608-XFR 28-ssop Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for ATMEGA1608-XFR (28-ssop package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for ATMEGA1608-XFR.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
ATMEGA1608-XFR is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Nodes, Home Appliances, IoT Sensor Endpoints, Motor Control Assist, Consumer Electronics, Functional Safety-Oriented Designs.
Industrial Control Nodes
The ATMEGA1608-XFR fits industrial control nodes where a rugged 8-bit controller must manage sensors, actuators, and communication over long product lifecycles. Its 20 MHz AVR core with hardware multiplier executes PID control loops deterministically, while 16 KB Flash holds control firmware plus a communication protocol such as Modbus over the USART. The megaAVR 0-series Core Independent Peripherals allow timer and communication tasks to continue running without CPU intervention, improving real-time behavior. Being part of a Functional Safety (FuSa) supported family simplifies documentation for industrial safety-oriented workflows. Use a 3.3V or 5V supply per the datasheet rails and route the UPDI pin to a production programming header for field firmware updates.
Recommended
Home Appliances
In home appliances such as dishwashers, coffee machines, and small HVAC units, the ATMEGA1608-XFR provides the cost-sensitive control backbone. The 256-byte EEPROM stores user settings and calibration data that must survive power cycles, while 16 KB Flash accommodates UI state machines, keypad scanning, and motor/relay sequencing in a single 20 MHz device. The 28-SSOP package suits compact two-layer appliance PCBs with automated tape-and-reel assembly for high-volume production. Its Core Independent Peripherals let timer-based PWM for heater or fan control proceed without CPU load, freeing firmware for user interface logic. Longevity of the megaAVR 0-series family also supports the multi-year service commitments typical of appliance manufacturers.
Recommended
IoT Sensor Endpoints
Battery-powered and mains-powered IoT sensor endpoints benefit from the ATMEGA1608-XFR's efficient 8-bit AVR core, which delivers adequate processing for sensor acquisition and protocol formatting at low complexity. The 2 KB SRAM supports a lightweight network stack fragment (such as a compact MQTT or LoRaWAN payload builder), while 16 KB Flash leaves room for OTA-style firmware management schemes with a small bootloader. The 20 MHz maximum clock allows sleep-then-burst operating patterns that conserve energy. Peripherals including USART, SPI, and TWI connect radio modules and sensors directly. Design the power tree with the datasheet sleep-mode currents in mind and reserve the UPDI pin access for production reprogramming of deployed endpoints.
Recommended
Motor Control Assist
For small motor applications - fans, pumps, and light-duty BLDC or brushed motor drivers - the ATMEGA1608-XFR generates PWM control signals and supervises feedback such as tach pulses and current-sense comparator inputs. The 20 MHz AVR core with hardware multiplier computes control-loop arithmetic (PI/PID terms) efficiently, and timer outputs drive external MOSFET gate drivers. The 16 KB Flash stores commutation tables plus fault handling, while 256 bytes of EEPROM retain motor calibration constants across power cycles. Use the 28-SSOP part on the low-voltage control side, with adequate isolation and gate driver ICs between the MCU and the power stage, following Microchip's motor-control reference designs for the megaAVR 0-series.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics
Cost-driven consumer products - toys, chargers, small displays, and personal-care devices - use the ATMEGA1608-XFR as the main system controller. The 20 MHz 8-bit AVR core handles button decoding, LED or segment display driving, and simple battery-charging supervision. The 16 KB Flash tier provides headroom over 8 KB-class parts for feature-rich firmware without the cost of 32 KB devices, and the 28-SSOP tape-and-reel format supports high-speed SMT lines at consumer production volumes. The megaAVR 0-series peripheral set (timers, USART, TWI, analog comparator) covers most consumer I/O needs without external logic. Confirm the operating temperature grade in the datasheet for enclosures with elevated internal temperatures.
Recommended
Functional Safety-Oriented Designs
DigiKey classifies the ATMEGA1608-XFR under Microchip's Functional Safety (FuSa) offering, meaning the device is supported with safety documentation packages useful for designs targeting standards such as IEC 61508. The fixed 20 MHz AVR core behavior, hardware multiplier, and Core Independent Peripherals provide predictable execution characteristics that simplify safety analyses. The 16 KB Flash and 2 KB SRAM are sized for safety logic, self-test routines, and watchdog-managed supervision code in a single controller. Engineers should obtain the official FuSa safety manual directly from Microchip, implement the recommended watchdog and clock-failure countermeasures from the datasheet, and follow the documented development flow when certifying end equipment.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ATMEGA1608-XFR β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ATMEGA3208-XF | ATMEGA808-XF | ATMEGA3208-XFR | ATMEGA808-XFR | ATMEGA1608-XF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP (Tape & Reel) | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Flash Memory | 16 KB | 32 KB | 8 KB | 32 KB | 8 KB | 16 KB |
| SRAM | 2 KB | 2 KB | 1 KB | 2 KB | 1 KB | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 64 bytes | 256 bytes | 64 bytes | 256 bytes |
| Max Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Core | AVR 8-bit with hardware multiplier | AVR 8-bit with hardware multiplier | AVR 8-bit with hardware multiplier | AVR 8-bit with hardware multiplier | AVR 8-bit with hardware multiplier | AVR 8-bit with hardware multiplier |
| Packing | Tape & Reel (R suffix) | Tray | Tray | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tray |
| Functional Safety (FuSa) Support | Yes (megaAVR 0-series) | Yes (megaAVR 0-series) | Yes (megaAVR 0-series) | Yes (megaAVR 0-series) | Yes (megaAVR 0-series) | Yes (megaAVR 0-series) |
Key Differentiators
- Mid-tier Flash sizing with pin-compatible upgrade path (vs ATMEGA3208-XF)
- Better memory value than the cost-down variant (vs ATMEGA808-XFR)
- Tape-and-reel packing for volume assembly (vs ATMEGA1608-XF)
Design Notes
Confirm the exact package footprint before layout: the ATmega1608 family is offered in 28-pin SSOP and 32-pin TQFP/VQFN options, and orderable codes differ subtly (X = 28-SSOP, A = 32-TQFP in the ordering nomenclature). The ATMEGA1608-XFR is the 28-SSOP tape-and-reel version per DigiKey's listing. Footprinting the wrong package forces a PCB respin. Also note that ATmega1608-AFR (32-TQFP) is NOT a drop-in substitute for this 28-SSOP part despite identical silicon.
Budget Flash and SRAM from day one. The 16 KB Flash accommodates a bootloader plus application firmware, but adding a UART bootloader can consume 1-2 KB, and C runtime plus communication stacks erode the 2 KB SRAM quickly. Compile early with the actual toolchain (MPLAB X with XC8, or avr-gcc) and inspect the memory usage map. If your application approaches 14 KB Flash or 1.6 KB SRAM, plan migration to the pin-compatible ATMEGA3208-XF, which requires no PCB change.
Reserve in-circuit programming access: route the UPDI (Unified Program and Debug Interface) pin to a tagged test point or header, since 28-SSOP devices cannot be programmed in a socket during production rework. Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within a few millimeters of the supply pin, plus bulk capacitance per the datasheet power supply recommendations. Keep crystal or internal-oscillator considerations in mind - the 0-series internal oscillator removes the need for an external crystal in many designs, reducing BOM cost.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance consistent with current-production Microchip AVR packaging; obtain official RoHS/REACH certificates from Microchip's product compliance portal for the exact ordering code.
