ATMEGA162L-8AI - 8MHz AVR 16KB Flash MCU | Microchip
MPN: ATMEGA162L-8AI ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.85 | $5.85 |
| 10 | $5.27 | $52.70 |
| 100 | $4.68 | $468.00 |
| 500 | $4.22 | $2,110.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.8 | $3,800.00 |
ATMEGA162L-8AI Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a self-contained computing device that integrates a processor core, program memory, data memory, and peripherals such as timers, communication interfaces, and I/O ports on a single silicon die. MCUs form the lowest tier of the embedded processing hierarchy - microcontroller -> embedded processor -> application processor - and are the workhorses of embedded systems, where they execute deterministic real-time control tasks in appliances, industrial equipment, and automotive subsystems.
The ATMEGA162L-8AI is built on the AVR Advanced RISC architecture, which executes 133 powerful instructions with most single-clock-cycle execution, giving an effective throughput of up to 8 MIPS at 8MHz. Key differentiating features include dual programmable serial USARTs - unusual in the 16KB class - a comprehensive peripheral set with brown-out detection (BOD), Power-on Reset (POR), Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) outputs, and a Watchdog Timer (WDT), plus an optional boot code section with independent lock bits enabling true read-while-write in-system self-programming.
Technical depth comes from the AVR core's Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses and 32 general-purpose 8-bit working registers directly connected to the ALU, allowing two independent registers to be accessed in a single instruction. The 16KB FLASH is rated for endurance of approximately 1,000 write/erase cycles per the datasheet family documentation, the 512-byte EEPROM for 100,000 cycles, and up to 64KB of optional external memory space is supported.
Typical applications include dual-channel serial communication nodes such as RS-485/RS-232 converters, industrial control panels, HVAC and appliance controllers, and legacy AVR designs requiring a 5V-tolerant, low-power controller. The L-suffix low-voltage grading combined with the industrial -40C to +85C operating range (the I suffix) suits harsh environments.
Design consideration: choose the 8MHz L-graded part when the supply rail may sag below 4.5V - the standard 16MHz ATMEGA162-16AI requires 4.5V minimum, while this L version regulates reliably down to 2.7V.
This page synthesizes verified distributor data, drop-in alternatives within the ATmega162 family, and practical design guidance not found on the manufacturer product page.
Drop-in alternatives for ATMEGA162L-8AI — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ATMEGA162L-8AU
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATMEGA162-16AI
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$2.98 / Unit
View Datasheet →ATMEGA162-16AU
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$2.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →ATMEGA162L-8AI Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | AVR 8-bit Advanced RISC |
| Data Bus Width | 8 Bit |
| Program Memory Size | 16KB (8K x 16) FLASH |
| SRAM Size | 1KB |
| EEPROM Size | 512 Bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 8 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7 V to 5.5 V |
| Instructions | 133 (most single-cycle) |
| External Memory Support | Up to 64KB optional |
| Peripherals | BOD, POR, PWM, WDT, dual USART |
| Package Type | 44-TQFP (10x10 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial, I suffix) |
| FLASH Endurance | 1,000 Write/Erase Cycles |
| EEPROM Endurance | 100,000 Write/Erase Cycles |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
ATMEGA162L-8AI 44-tqfp (10x10 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for ATMEGA162L-8AI (44-tqfp (10x10 mm) 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 ATMEGA162L-8AI.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
ATMEGA162L-8AI is suitable for 6 applications: Dual-Channel Serial Communication Nodes, Industrial Control Panels, Appliance and HVAC Controllers, Point-of-Sale and Terminal Equipment, Legacy AVR Design Maintenance, Battery-Powered Instruments.
Dual-Channel Serial Communication Nodes
The defining strength of the ATMEGA162L-8AI is its dual programmable USART architecture, which makes it a natural fit for protocol-bridging nodes such as RS-232-to-RS-485 converters, Modbus gateways, and telemetry multiplexers. Each USART operates independently, allowing one channel to serve a field bus at 9600-115200 baud while the second serves a local console or GSM modem. Running at up to 8 MIPS from the AVR RISC core, the device sustains full-duplex buffered communication with headroom for CRC checking and framing. The 2.7V-5.5V supply range and 16KB FLASH with self-programming boot section allow field firmware updates over either serial channel, reducing maintenance cost in installed bases.
Recommended
Industrial Control Panels
In industrial control panels, the ATMEGA162L-8AI combines industrial-grade -40C to +85C operation (the I suffix), brown-out detection, and a watchdog timer into a robust supervisory controller. Its 53-I/O-class port resources and PWM outputs drive relays, indicators, and actuator interfaces directly, while the 512-byte EEPROM retains calibration constants and counters through power cycles with 100,000-cycle endurance. The 8MHz clock keeps EMI low compared with faster controllers, easing EMC compliance in cabinet environments. The external memory interface supporting up to 64KB allows expansion for log buffers when needed, and dual USARTs link the panel to both an HMI and a SCADA network.
Recommended
Appliance and HVAC Controllers
White-goods and HVAC controllers benefit from the ATMEGA162L-8AI's integrated Power-on Reset, brown-out detection, and watchdog timer, which deliver safe, self-recovering behavior after brown-out events common on mains-derived supplies. PWM outputs drive fan and blower motors or heater triac phase control, while the 1KB SRAM handles state machines and scheduled task structures. The wide 2.7V-5.5V operating range tolerates unregulated low-voltage supplies derived from the mains transformer, and the low 8MHz clock minimizes radiated emissions toward the consumer-grade EMC limits. The 512-byte EEPROM stores cycle counters and fault logs for service diagnostics.
Recommended
Point-of-Sale and Terminal Equipment
POS terminals, receipt printers, and card-reader interfaces frequently require two simultaneous serial links - one to a modem or host, one to a printer or keypad - which maps directly onto the ATMEGA162L-8AI's dual USARTs. The true read-while-write boot section enables secure field firmware updates with independent boot lock bits, important for payment-related equipment. The 16KB FLASH accommodates protocol stacks and font tables, and the 64KB external memory interface supports additional data buffers. Industrial temperature grading and 5V operation simplify integration with legacy peripheral ICs that remain common in terminal hardware.
Recommended
Legacy AVR Design Maintenance
A large installed base of Atmel AVR designs built around the ATmega162 continues to require exact-form-fit-function spare parts. The ATMEGA162L-8AI, being an active Microchip part with the same die and TQFP-44 footprint as its Atmel-branded predecessors, is the sanctioned continuation part for these designs. Drop-in family members ATMEGA162L-8AU, ATMEGA162-16AI, and ATMEGA162-16AU let procurement bridge shortages without PCB changes. AVR ISP and MPLAB SNAP tooling remains fully supported for reprogramming, and the 1,000-cycle FLASH endurance is adequate for service re-flashes over a long product lifetime.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Instruments
The L-suffix low-voltage grading lets the ATMEGA162L-8AI run directly from 2.7V-5.5V sources such as three AA cells or a single lithium cell via an LDO, without the 4.5V floor demanded by the 16MHz grade. The 8MHz limit trades speed for voltage margin, and AVR power-reduction modes (idle, power-down) extend battery life between measurements. Dual USARTs serve a data logger and a radio module simultaneously, while the EEPROM stores calibration data without external NVRAM. For portable handheld measurement instruments, this combination of low-voltage tolerance, self-programming, and rich I/O is a strong fit.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ATMEGA162L-8AI — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ATMEGA162L-8AU | ATMEGA162-16AI | ATMEGA162-16AU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-TQFP (10x10 mm) | 44-TQFP (10x10 mm) - same | 44-TQFP (10x10 mm) - same | 44-TQFP (10x10 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Max Clock Speed | 8 MHz | 8 MHz | 16 MHz | 16 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 V to 5.5 V | 2.7 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Flash Memory | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB |
| SRAM | 1 KB | 1 KB | 1 KB | 1 KB |
| USART Count | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Key Differentiators
- Dual hardware USARTs in the 16KB class (vs ATMEGA16-16AU)
- Low-voltage 2.7V operation at full family feature set (vs ATMEGA162-16AI)
- External memory expansion up to 64KB (vs ATMEGA162L-8AU)
Design Notes
Match the speed grade to your supply rail. This 8MHz L-graded part regulates down to 2.7V, but if you substitute the pin-compatible ATMEGA162-16AI for extra speed, the supply must be guaranteed 4.5V-5.5V under all load and temperature conditions. Enable the internal brown-out detection (BOD) at a threshold appropriate for your rail (e.g., 2.7V threshold on a 5V system is too low - select the 4.0V level for 5V rails) so the MCU never executes corrupted code during supply dips.
Place 100nF ceramic decoupling capacitors at each VCC pin pair with a solid ground plane on the layer beneath the 44-TQFP footprint. If using the external memory interface, keep address/data bus traces under 10cm and add series termination on clocked lines. Route the two USARTs away from the crystal section; the ATmega162 supports two crystal oscillators, so give each crystal its own local ground return rather than sharing a single guard trace.
Do not confuse ATmega162 with ATmega16 footprints - although both come in 44-pin TQFP, the pin assignments differ and an ATmega16L will not function on an ATmega162 board. Also remember the L/8MHz part is not code-compatible speed-wise for bit-banged timing loops calibrated on a 16MHz part; recompute UART baud register values and delay loops when migrating between 8AI and 16AI grades. Verify FLASH endurance budget (approx. 1,000 cycles) before choosing frequent self-programming data logging in FLASH.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance per standard Microchip production policy for the ATmega162 family; confirm via official Microchip product page certificate for exact lot-level compliance.
