ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR - Dual-Core Cortex-M4 120MHz MCU | Microchip
MPN: ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.85 | $9.85 |
| 10 | $8.95 | $89.50 |
| 100 | $7.9 | $790.00 |
| 500 | $7.1 | $3,550.00 |
| 1,000 | $6.45 | $6,450.00 |
ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR Overview
A microcontroller unit (MCU) is a single integrated circuit that combines a processor core, memory, and programmable peripherals into one chip, forming the lowest layer of the embedded computing hierarchy (MCU -> embedded processor -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor). MCUs execute dedicated control tasks in real time, unlike application processors that run general-purpose operating systems. The SAM4CM family extends Microchip's (formerly Atmel) SAM4 ARM Cortex-M portfolio by adding a second Cortex-M4F core for metering and secure applications.
Key features of the ATSAM4CMP8CA include its dual-core architecture that partitions measurement and communication workloads, a 120 MHz maximum core clock for high computation throughput, 512KB of embedded Flash for firmware and data logging, and a cryptographic capability highlighted in distributor classifications (crypto, multi-rate metering support). The device operates from a 1.2V core / 3.3V I/O supply arrangement, matching standard industrial logic levels.
Technically, the dual Cortex-M4 cores with FPU (M4F) allow deterministic partitioning: one core can run closed-loop metrology sampling while the other handles protocol stacks and user interfaces, reducing real-time contention. Industrial temperature grading (industrial grade per distributor data) supports harsh-environment deployment.
Typical applications include polyphase energy meters, industrial control panels, building automation controllers, and secure data concentrators where segregated processing and metering accuracy are required.
Design consideration: budget Flash and SRAM carefully across the two cores, and verify power sequencing of the 3.3V I/O domain against the core supply during layout.
This page adds value beyond the manufacturer datasheet by synthesizing distributor pricing tiers, drop-in alternatives, and cross-reference guidance in one place.
Drop-in alternatives for ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Processor, Packaging, Mounting Type, Series, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ATSAM4CMP8CC-AUR
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →ATSAM4CMP32CA-AUR
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.25 / Unit
View Datasheet →ATSAM4CMP16CA-AUR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | ARM Cortex-M4/M4F dual-core |
| Core Size | 32-bit |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 120 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 512KB (512K x 8) Flash |
| RAM Size | 128KB |
| Supply Voltage | 1.2V / 3.3V |
| Series | SAM4CM |
| Package | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Number of Terminals | 100 |
| Terminal Form | Gull Wing |
| Package Shape | Square (LFQFP) |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T/R) |
| Product Type | MCU, 32-bit, RISC microcontroller |
| Special Features | Crypto, multi-rate metering (per distributor classification) |
ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR square (lfqfp) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR (square (lfqfp) 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 ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR is suitable for 6 applications: Polyphase Energy Metering, Industrial Control and Automation, Building Automation Controllers, Secure Data Concentrators, Test and Measurement Instrumentation, Motor Control and Power Conversion.
Polyphase Energy Metering
The ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR fits polyphase electricity metering because FindIC classifies the SAM4CM family as a 7-channel, high-accuracy, multi-rate metering platform with cryptographic support. Its dual 120 MHz Cortex-M4/M4F cores allow deterministic separation: one core samples current and voltage channels in a fixed loop for metrology accuracy, while the second core handles tariff switching, communication, and display tasks without jittering measurement timing. With 512KB Flash and 128KB SRAM, the device stores multi-rate tariff tables, load profiles, and event logs on-chip. Placed at the center of the meter PCB with its 3.3V I/O domain interfacing to RS-485 or PLC communication PHYs, the MCU delivers single-chip metering plus protocol processing, reducing BOM cost compared to discrete metering ASIC plus MCU two-chip designs.
Recommended
Industrial Control and Automation
In industrial controllers, the ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR provides the compute headroom of a 120 MHz dual-core Cortex-M4 with hardware FPU (M4F), enabling floating-point PID loops and protocol conversion in one device. The industrial temperature grade supports cabinet-mounted electronics exposed to wide ambient swings, while the 100-pin LQFP offers enough GPIO for relay drives, indicator LEDs, and sensor multiplexing. The 512KB Flash accommodates firmware plus field-upgradeable configuration, and the 128KB SRAM buffers Modbus/CanFrame traffic. The second core can dedicate itself to a real-time safety scan while the first runs HMI and networking stacks, a partitioning strategy that shortens development versus interrupt-juggling on a single core. Its 3.3V logic simplifies interfacing with standard industrial transceiver ICs.
Recommended
Building Automation Controllers
Building automation nodes benefit from the ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR's balance of processing power and integration. The dual-core architecture lets one Cortex-M4F core run the BACnet or proprietary protocol stack while the other manages I/O scanning of temperature, occupancy, and damper feedback signals at fixed intervals, improving loop determinism. The 512KB Flash holds protocol stacks plus scheduling logic, and the crypto feature highlighted in distributor data supports secure commissioning and encrypted communication with building management systems. The industrial grade and 3.3V supply align with typical 24V-backed control panels regulated down to 3.3V. The 100-LQFP package provides ample GPIO for multiple sensor channels and actuator drives within a compact 14x14 mm footprint suitable for dense controller boards.
Recommended
Secure Data Concentrators
Data concentrators in AMI (advanced metering infrastructure) networks aggregate traffic from many meters, and the ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR suits this role through its combination of dual-core throughput and on-chip cryptographic support noted by FindIC. One core can service meter-bus or RF-module communication while the second performs encryption/decryption and uplink protocol handling, so security processing does not stall data collection. The 120 MHz clock and M4F floating-point units handle packet processing and any analytics pre-aggregation, while 512KB Flash stores firmware, keys, and queue structures in 128KB SRAM. The industrial temperature grade matches outdoor or cabinet-mounted concentrator hardware, and the 100-pin LQFP supplies the GPIO and multiple serial interfaces needed to connect several communication PHYs simultaneously.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Instrumentation
Benchtop and portable test instruments use the ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR as a control and preprocessing MCU. The 120 MHz dual-core Cortex-M4/M4F with hardware FPU performs fast floating-point scaling, calibration interpolation, and trigger logic, while the second core services the front panel, USB or UART interfaces, and display refresh independently, keeping measurement paths responsive. The 512KB Flash stores calibration tables and instrument firmware with room for feature expansion; 128KB SRAM buffers sampled data before streaming upstream. The 100-pin LQFP exposes numerous ADC-related and general-purpose pins for analog front-end control, and the industrial temperature grade suits instruments used in varied lab and field environments. Its 3.3V I/O connects directly to common front-end and communication ICs.
Recommended
Motor Control and Power Conversion
The ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR supports motor control applications where its dual-core 120 MHz Cortex-M4F cores execute field-oriented control (FOC) arithmetic with hardware floating point. One core runs the current loop and PWM update at fixed rate for deterministic torque control, while the second handles communication (Modbus/CAN), supervisory logic, and fault logging without perturbing the control loop timing. The 512KB Flash stores multiple motor profiles and firmware update images, and 128KB SRAM holds current-loop state variables and diagnostic buffers. The industrial grade supports drives in hot enclosures, and the 100-LQFP provides timer and GPIO resources to interface gate drivers and position sensors. The 3.3V I/O domain connects directly to standard isolated gate-driver inputs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ATSAM4CMP8CC-AUR | ATSAM4CMP32CA-AUR | ATSAM4CMP16CA-AUR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) - same | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) - same | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Core | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M4/M4F, 32-bit | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M4/M4F | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M4/M4F | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M4/M4F |
| Max Clock Frequency | 120 MHz | 120 MHz | 120 MHz | 120 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 1.2V / 3.3V | 1.2V / 3.3V | 1.2V / 3.3V | 1.2V / 3.3V |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial | Industrial (R suffix, T/R) | Industrial (R suffix, T/R) | Industrial (R suffix, T/R) |
Key Differentiators
- Dual-core architecture for workload partitioning (vs ATSAM4S16CA-AU)
- Balanced 512KB Flash / 128KB SRAM memory profile (vs ATSAM4CMP32CA-AUR)
- Metering-optimized feature set (vs ATSAM4CMP8CC-AUR)
Design Notes
The ATSAM4CMP8CA-AUR uses a dual supply arrangement: 1.2V for the core domain and 3.3V for I/O. Verify power sequencing between these domains during startup, since incorrect sequencing can latch up I/O structures. Estimated: at 120 MHz with both cores active, core current draw of a few tens of milliamperes is typical for Cortex-M4 class devices, so a small 1.2V LDO or buck rated at 150-300 mA provides margin. Decouple each supply pin pair with 100 nF ceramics placed within 2 mm of the pins, plus one bulk 10 uF capacitor per domain.
The 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) package has 0.5 mm pitch gull-wing leads requiring solder-mask-defined or non-solder-mask-defined pads per IPC-SM-782A-style convention for LQFP-100 footprints. Route the crystal and its load capacitors close to the oscillator pins with a guard ground; keep high-current switching traces (relay drives, LED strings) away from the analog supply pins. Provide a solid ground plane under the device, and fan out the 25 pins per side with via-in-pad or dog-bone fanout on 2+ layer boards to avoid acid traps at 0.5 mm pitch.
Do not assume all SAM4CM family order codes are interchangeable: the CA/CC suffix denotes different Flash/configuration tiers, so confirm the exact memory size in the current Microchip datasheet before substitution. Also verify the -AUR suffix requirements: it specifies the industrial temperature range and tape-and-reel packing - ordering the wrong packing (tray vs reel) disrupts pick-and-place lines. Finally, when moving from the single-core SAM4S family (e.g., ATSAM4S16CA), remember the dual-core programming model, shared-peripheral ownership, and inter-processor communication differ fundamentally and require firmware redesign, not just recompilation.
Compliance Information
RoHS/REACH status not stated in the searched distributor snippets; the FindIC classification mentions a Green package description. Confirm via Microchip product page compliance certificates for the exact ordering code.