ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU - Dual-Core Cortex-M4 120MHz MCU | Microchip
MPN: ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $8.92 | $8.92 |
| 10 | $8.02 | $80.20 |
| 100 | $6.95 | $695.00 |
| 500 | $6.32 | $3,160.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.8 | $5,800.00 |
ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single integrated circuit that combines a processor core, memory, and peripherals into one chip, forming the heart of embedded systems. The SAM4CM sits within the broader hierarchy of ARM Cortex-M based 32-bit MCUs, part of Microchip's SAM4 family, and is specifically architected as a system-on-chip (SoC) solution for metering applications where signal processing and communications firmware must run in independent, isolated partitions.
Key features include the unique dual ARM Cortex-M4/M4F core architecture, which allows metrology (DSP-heavy) computation and application/communications code to execute on separate cores; hardware cryptographic acceleration as highlighted by distributors (CRYPTO designation); and a supply range of 1.62V to 3.6V per verified distributor data. The on-chip cache and up to 2 MB Flash support capability in the wider family gives headroom for complex firmware images.
According to Microchip, the SAM4CMS16 is a system-on-chip solution for residential and single-phase metering applications achieving up to class 0.2 metrology accuracy over a dynamic range of 3000:1 across an industrial temperature range. The dual-core partitioning enables secure, independent firmware domains that simplify metering certification workflows.
Typical applications include single-phase energy meters, smart grid endpoints, industrial power monitoring, and general-purpose control tasks benefiting from dual-core isolation and DSP instructions.
Design consideration: choose the CM (metering) variant only when class 0.2 measurement or core isolation is genuinely required; the single-core SAM4S in the same LQFP-100 footprint is a lower-cost fit for general control.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU β 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 ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Core Processor, Core Size, Series, Application Target, Package Shape.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ATSAM4CMS16CA-AU
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATSAM4CMS16CB-AUR
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATSAM4C16CB-AU
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$5.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βATSAM4C16CA-AU
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$9.56 / Unit
View Datasheet βATSAM4S16CB-AU
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | ARM Cortex-M4/M4F, dual-core |
| Core Size | 32-bit |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 120 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 1 MB (1M x 8) Flash |
| RAM Size | 128 KB |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.62 V to 3.6 V |
| Series | SAM4CM |
| Package | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| Number of Pins | 100 |
| Terminal Form | Gull Wing |
| Package Shape | Square (LFQFP) |
| Crypto | Yes (CRYPTO designation) |
| Application Target | Single-phase metering, class 0.2 accuracy, 3000:1 dynamic range |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial |
| RoHS Status | Green (RoHS compliant per distributor listing) |
ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU square (lfqfp) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU (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 ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU is suitable for 6 applications: Single-Phase Smart Energy Meters, Industrial Power Monitoring, Secure IoT Gateways and Grid Endpoints, Dual-Core Partitioned Embedded Control, Battery-Powered and Portable Instrumentation, Smart Home Energy Submeters.
Single-Phase Smart Energy Meters
The ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU was purpose-built for this application: per Microchip, the SAM4CMS16 achieves up to class 0.2 metrology accuracy over a dynamic range of 3000:1 in residential and single-phase metering across the industrial temperature range. The dual Cortex-M4/M4F cores let the signal-processing metrology firmware (FFT, filtering, RMS computation) run in a partition isolated from the communications and application stack, which simplifies utility certification and firmware updates without compromising measurement integrity. The hardware crypto block secures DLMS/COSEM communications and secure firmware boot. Place the MCU at the heart of the metering board with a precision analog front end; the on-chip cache sustains deterministic DSP throughput at 120 MHz without external memory for typical metering images.
Recommended
Industrial Power Monitoring
Three-phase and single-phase power quality monitors benefit from the ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU's dual-core architecture: one Cortex-M4 core executes continuous voltage/current sampling and harmonic analysis while the second handles Modbus RTU/TCP, logging, and human-machine interface tasks. The 1 MB Flash accommodates both the DSP measurement library and a full communication stack simultaneously, and the 128 KB SRAM supports buffering of waveform captures. The industrial -40C to +85C rating and Green RoHS LQFP-100 package suit panel-mounted equipment. The class 0.2-class metrology datapath means accuracy demanded by billing-grade submeters is available without a dedicated metering ASIC, reducing bill-of-materials count; the trade-off is higher unit cost than the single-core SAM4S in the same footprint.
Recommended
Secure IoT Gateways and Grid Endpoints
The ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU's hardware cryptographic acceleration (CRYPTO designation per distributor listings) makes it attractive for grid endpoints, concentrators, and IoT gateways that must authenticate firmware and encrypt telemetry. One Cortex-M4 core can run the communications stack (RS-485, PLC, or cellular modems over UART/USB) while the second core isolates security-critical key handling and application logic. The 1.62V to 3.6V supply range simplifies powering from industrial 3.3V rails, and the 120 MHz clock with on-chip cache delivers adequate headroom for TLS-class workloads. The 100-pin LQFP provides sufficient GPIO and peripherals to bridge multiple field buses in a single device, consolidating functions that would otherwise require a separate security IC.
Recommended
Dual-Core Partitioned Embedded Control
Any embedded control system that benefits from running safety- or certification-relevant code in an isolated partition from user-facing firmware is a fit for the ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU. The dual ARM Cortex-M4/M4F architecture, described by distributors as supporting 'implementation of signal processing, application and communications firmware in independent partitions,' enables functional separation without a second chip. The floating-point (M4F) capability accelerates control loops and sensor fusion, while 1 MB Flash leaves room for over-the-air update images. Compared to running two discrete MCUs, this part cuts board area, simplifies inter-core messaging over on-chip fabric, and reduces sourcing complexity - a meaningful advantage in industrial drives, HVAC controllers, and medical monitoring front ends.
Recommended
Battery-Powered and Portable Instrumentation
The wide 1.62V to 3.6V supply range and 32-bit Cortex-M4 efficiency make the ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU viable in battery-operated instruments such as portable power analyzers, clamp meters, and data loggers. Running from a single Li-ion cell (3.0V to 3.6V fresh-to-empty window) or a 3.3V LDO rail keeps the power tree simple. The M4F core's single-cycle MAC and floating-point unit accelerate calibration math and waveform math in handheld test tools, while dual-core partitioning lets a low-duty-cycle second core manage housekeeping tasks. The industrial temperature rating tolerates field conditions, and the 100-pin LQFP exposes enough ADC channels and GPIO for multi-signal front ends in a 14x14 mm footprint.
Recommended
Smart Home Energy Submeters
Smart-home energy monitoring hubs and DIN-rail submeters use the ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU to deliver billing-adjacent accuracy (class 0.2 over 3000:1 dynamic range per Microchip) while running Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Ethernet bridge firmware on the second core. The dual-core isolation allows the measurement partition to be validated once and left untouched while consumer features (mobile app protocols, OTA updates) evolve rapidly. The crypto engine protects against meter-tampering attacks that are increasingly regulated in residential metering. With 1 MB Flash there is headroom for both the metrology library and a full TCP/IP stack with TLS, avoiding external Flash in compact designs, and the industrial-grade LQFP-100 package supports automated reflow assembly in volume.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ATSAM4CMS16CB-AU β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ATSAM4CMS16CA-AU | ATSAM4C16CB-AU | ATSAM4C16CA-AU | ATSAM4S16CB-AU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) | 100-LQFP (14x14 mm) - same | 100-LQFP - same | 100-LQFP - same | 100-LQFP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology (Atmel legacy) | Microchip Technology (Atmel legacy) | Microchip Technology |
| Core Architecture | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M4/M4F | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M4/M4F | Single-core ARM Cortex-M4 | Single-core ARM Cortex-M4 | Single-core ARM Cortex-M4 |
| Max Clock Frequency | 120 MHz | 120 MHz | 120 MHz | 120 MHz | 120 MHz |
| Hardware Crypto | Yes (CRYPTO designation) | Yes (CRYPTO designation) | Yes (Smart Energy Metering family) | Yes (Smart Energy Metering family) | No (general-purpose SAM4S) |
| Target Application | Class 0.2 single-phase metering, 3000:1 dynamic range | Class 0.2 single-phase metering | Smart energy metering (single-core) | Smart energy metering (single-core) | General-purpose embedded control |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | Industrial | Industrial | Industrial |
Key Differentiators
- Dual-core Cortex-M4/M4F with independent firmware partitions (vs ATSAM4S16CB-AU)
- Class 0.2 metrology accuracy with 3000:1 dynamic range (vs ATSAM4S16CB-AU)
- Higher SRAM configuration than same-class single-core parts (vs ATSAM4C16CB-AU)
Design Notes
Do not assume dual-core equivalence when substituting single-core SAM4C or SAM4S parts on the same LQFP-100 footprint. Although the electrical footprint is pin-compatible, the firmware must be substantially re-architected: dual-core partitioning, inter-core communication, and the metrology library are SAM4CM-specific. If class 0.2 metering certification is a project requirement, only SAM4CM variants preserve the validated measurement path. Re-verify peripheral pin multiplexing against the SAM4CM datasheet before finalizing the PCB, even for same-family swaps.
Design the supply for a nominal 3.3V rail within the verified 1.62V to 3.6V operating range. Metering applications demand stable analog supply for measurement accuracy - Microchip's class 0.2 claim over 3000:1 dynamic range assumes clean power. Place local 100 nF ceramic decoupling at each supply pin pair plus bulk 10 uF per rail. Avoid routing noisy communications or relay-driver currents under the MCU. Estimated: at 120 MHz, core current is on the order of tens of milliamps (verify exact figure in the datasheet power chapter); size the regulator with margin for both cores active.
The 100-LQFP (14x14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package requires careful fanout: use 4-mil trace/spacing for escape routing between adjacent pins, and consider a via-in-pad-free dog-bone fanout on a 4-layer board. Reserve ground pour under the device and stitch vias around the perimeter to contain EMI from the 120 MHz core clock - important in metering products subject to conducted/radiated emissions limits. Keep the crystal or oscillator traces short and guarded. Microchip's SAM4 family reference designs for metering provide proven layout patterns worth replicating.
The LQFP-100 plastic package relies on PCB copper for heat spreading. Estimated: a dual-core Cortex-M4 at 120 MHz dissipates on the order of 100-300 mW typical, which with a 14x14 mm LQFP thermal resistance of roughly 50-60 C/W (verify exact theta-JA in the datasheet) yields a junction rise of only a few tens of degrees - generally safe at industrial ambient up to +85C only if ambient does not stack with full load. In sealed meter enclosures, verify junction temperature with worst-case ambient, and reduce core clock or duty-cycle unused cores if margin is tight.
Compliance Information
Mouser lists the part as Green, industrial temperature, RoHS packaging. Formal REACH, halogen-free, and conflict-minerals declarations should be requested from Microchip compliance documentation; distributor snippets do not confirm these.