ATSAMC20E18A-AUT - 48MHz Cortex-M0+ MCU 256KB Flash | Microchip
MPN: ATSAMC20E18A-AUT β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.92 | $4.92 |
| 10 | $4.42 | $44.20 |
| 100 | $3.72 | $372.00 |
| 500 | $3.2 | $1,600.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.85 | $2,850.00 |
ATSAMC20E18A-AUT Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (Flash), data memory (SRAM), and programmable peripherals. The Cortex-M0+ is an ARM 32-bit core optimized for energy efficiency and deterministic interrupt response, widely used in cost-sensitive embedded designs. Within the power-management and MCU hierarchy, the SAM C20 sits under: ARM Cortex-M0+ -> 32-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC.
Key features of the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT include: hardware single-cycle multiplier, Memory Protection Unit (MPU), Micro Trace Buffer for debug, 8KB independent self-programmable Flash for EEPROM emulation, and full 5V supply tolerance on I/O. The device integrates CAN-FD, up to six SERCOM (serial communication) interfaces that can be configured as UART/SPI/I2C, a 12-bit ADC, a 16-bit Sigma-Delta ADC, analog comparators, and a 24-bit PTC (Peripheral Touch Controller) for capacitive touch sensing. AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification extends the operating temperature range from -40C to +125C.
The SAM C20 architecture combines deterministic Cortex-M0+ performance (2.46 CoreMark/MHz) with the 5V I/O tolerance of legacy 8-bit MCUs, simplifying migration from PIC16/PIC18 designs while adding CAN-FD connectivity for industrial networks. The dedicated 8KB Flash bank for EEPROM emulation preserves the main Flash endurance by spreading write cycles, an important consideration for parameter storage.
Typical applications include industrial sensor nodes, HVAC controllers, automotive body and comfort ECUs, small BLDC motor drivers, white-goods control boards, and CAN-FD networked appliances. The combination of 5V I/O, AEC-Q100 Grade 1, and CAN-FD makes it especially attractive as a drop-in upgrade path for designs migrating from PIC18 or older SAM D20 parts.
When designing with this part, ensure the 5V supply is well decoupled with a 100nF X7R close to each VDD pin and a bulk 4.7uF tantalum or ceramic on the analog AVDD rail. For automotive CAN-FD networks, add a common-mode choke and ESD diode on the CANH/CANL lines and verify bus termination against ISO 11898-1.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family alternatives, and PCB design notes beyond the manufacturer datasheet summary.
Drop-in alternatives for ATSAMC20E18A-AUT 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 ATSAMC20E18A-AUT (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, ADC, Operating Temperature, Flash Memory, SRAM.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ATSAMC21E18A-AUT
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$3.07 / Unit
View Datasheet βATSAMC20E17A-AUT
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ATSAMC20E16A-AUT
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.96 / Unit
View Datasheet βATSAMC20E18A-MUT
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―β In Stock
$1.92 / Unit
View Datasheet βATSAMC21E17A-AUT
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―β In Stock
$2.45 / Unit
View Datasheet βATSAMC20E18A-AUT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | ARM Cortex-M0+ 32-bit |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 48 MHz |
| CoreMark Performance | 2.46 CoreMark/MHz |
| Program Flash | 256 KB (in-system programmable) |
| EEPROM Emulation Flash | 8 KB (independent self-programmable) |
| SRAM | 32 KB |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.7 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Tolerance | 5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (AEC-Q100 Grade 1) |
| Package | 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) |
| CAN-FD Interface | 1 (CAN 2.0B + CAN-FD) |
| SERCOM Modules | Up to 6 (configurable UART/SPI/I2C) |
| ADC | 12-bit SAR + 16-bit Sigma-Delta |
| Touch (PTC) | 24-bit Peripheral Touch Controller |
| Hardware Multiplier | Single-cycle 32-bit |
| Memory Protection Unit (MPU) | Yes |
| Debug Interface | Micro Trace Buffer + SWD |
| Automotive Qualification | AEC-Q100 Grade 1 |
ATSAMC20E18A-AUT Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | PA03 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN1) / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 2 | PA04 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN2) / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 3 | PA05 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN3) / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 4 | PA06 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN4) / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 5 | PA07 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN5) / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 6 | PA08 β GPIO / SERCOM pad / NMI |
| Pin 7 | PA09 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 8 | PA10 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 9 | PA11 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 10 | VDD β Digital supply voltage 2.7-5.5 V |
| Pin 11 | VSS β Digital ground |
| Pin 12 | PA12 β GPIO / SERCOM pad (I2S FS) |
| Pin 13 | PA13 β GPIO / SERCOM pad (I2S SCK) |
| Pin 14 | PA14 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 15 | PA15 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 16 | PA16 β GPIO / SERCOM pad (I2C SDA) |
| Pin 17 | PA17 β GPIO / SERCOM pad (I2C SCL) |
| Pin 18 | PA18 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 19 | PA19 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 20 | PA20 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 21 | PA21 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 22 | PA22 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 23 | PA23 β GPIO / SERCOM pad |
| Pin 24 | PA24 β GPIO / CAN0 TX |
| Pin 25 | PA25 β GPIO / CAN0 RX |
| Pin 26 | PB02 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN10) |
| Pin 27 | PB03 β GPIO / ADC input (AIN11) |
| Pin 28 | PA27 β GPIO / SWDIO (debug data) |
| Pin 29 | RESETn β Active-low reset input |
| Pin 30 | VDD β Digital supply voltage 2.7-5.5 V |
| Pin 31 | VSS β Digital ground |
| Pin 32 | PA28 β GPIO / SWCLK (debug clock) |
Typical Applications
ATSAMC20E18A-AUT is suitable for 8 applications: Automotive Body and Comfort ECUs, Industrial Sensor Nodes with CAN-FD, BLDC and Stepper Motor Control, White Goods and Appliance Control Boards, Capacitive Touch User Interfaces, HVAC Building Automation Controllers, Medical Monitoring and Diagnostic Devices, IoT Edge Nodes with Wired Fieldbus.
Automotive Body and Comfort ECUs
The ATSAMC20E18A-AUT is a strong fit for automotive body-control modules because of its AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, -40C to +125C operating range, and 5V-tolerant I/O that interfaces directly with legacy body sensors and actuators. Its single CAN-FD controller supports 2 Mbps bus arbitration needed by modern body networks carrying lighting, mirror, and seat-position messages. The 256KB Flash plus 8KB EEPROM-emulation bank allows comfortable storage of CANopen/J1939 calibration tables without wearing the code Flash, while 32KB SRAM supports diagnostic buffering. Compared with NXP S32K parts, the SAM C20 offers a more compact BOM at the cost of no hardware security module.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Nodes with CAN-FD
In industrial sensor hubs, the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT integrates CAN-FD plus six SERCOM channels in a single 32-pin TQFP, eliminating external UART expanders. The Cortex-M0+ at 48MHz runs lightweight Modbus or CANopen stacks with deterministic interrupt latency from the NVIC. The 12-bit SAR ADC (up to 1 Msps) digitizes analog sensors, while the 16-bit Sigma-Delta ADC handles precision bridge or thermocouple front-ends. The 5V I/O tolerance is critical for legacy 24V industrial sensors after resistive dividers. Power consumption under Deep Sleep mode drops below 5uA, allowing 4-20mA loop-powered operation.
Recommended
BLDC and Stepper Motor Control
The ATSAMC20E18A-AUT is well suited to small BLDC and stepper motor controllers up to a few hundred watts. Its 48MHz Cortex-M0+ executes field-oriented control (FOC) loops within the required PWM cycles, and the six SERCOM channels connect to position encoders and resolver front-ends. PWM outputs from the TCC (Timer/Counter for Control) drive discrete half-bridges or companion gate drivers; the PTC peripheral handles capacitive touch for user input. The AEC-Q100 Grade 1 rating and 5V I/O allow direct drive of 5V gate-driver logic, simplifying the BOM versus 3.3V-only MCUs that need level shifters.
Recommended
White Goods and Appliance Control Boards
White-goods designers choose the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT because it tolerates the 5V supply rails typical of washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers, eliminating external level shifters to control relays and triacs. The 32KB SRAM supports display rendering on character or small graphical LCDs, while the 256KB Flash accommodates IEC 60730 safety class B firmware libraries. CAN-FD connectivity supports modern appliance networking for diagnostics and predictive maintenance. The integrated PTC controller enables touch-button user interfaces without dedicated touch ICs.
Recommended
Capacitive Touch User Interfaces
The integrated 24-bit Peripheral Touch Controller (PTC) makes the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT a natural fit for capacitive touch panels on appliances, automotive consoles, and industrial HMIs. The PTC supports mutual- and self-capacitance scanning of up to 32 buttons or a small slider/wheel, with hardware-accelerated touch detection that offloads the Cortex-M0+ core. Combined with the 5V I/O tolerance and AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, the device replaces discrete touch ICs plus a separate MCU, shrinking BOM and PCB area while passing ESD and EMC requirements common to consumer and automotive environments.
Recommended
HVAC Building Automation Controllers
For HVAC and building-automation controllers, the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT provides the CAN-FD connectivity needed for BACnet or proprietary building networks, plus the analog integration for temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors. The 12-bit SAR ADC reads multiple analog sensors in sequence while the 16-bit Sigma-Delta ADC handles precision temperature with RTD or thermistor bridges. The 256KB Flash supports full BACnet MS-TP or BACnet/IP stacks, and the 8KB EEPROM-emulation bank stores calibration coefficients. The 5V I/O interfaces directly with legacy 24V triac-output HVAC actuators.
Recommended
Medical Monitoring and Diagnostic Devices
In low-risk medical monitoring devices (FDA Class I/II exempt), the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT's high analog integration and 5V tolerance simplify front-end designs. The 16-bit Sigma-Delta ADC digitizes ECG or pulse-oximeter signals with 256x oversampling, while the 12-bit SAR ADC monitors battery and electrode-impedance channels. The 32KB SRAM buffers waveform segments before BLE upload, and the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification (although automotive) demonstrates robustness across temperature extremes. The Cortex-M0+ supports lightweight RTOS scheduling of patient-data acquisition tasks.
Recommended
IoT Edge Nodes with Wired Fieldbus
For IoT edge nodes that prefer wired fieldbus over wireless, the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT combines CAN-FD, UART, SPI, and I2C in a single chip, simplifying multi-protocol gateway designs. The 48MHz Cortex-M0+ runs lightweight MQTT-SN or OPC UA Pub/Sub stacks, while the 256KB Flash supports secure-boot libraries. The 5V tolerance and -40C to +125C range allow outdoor cabinet deployment without additional protection. Compared to dedicated wireless-only IoT MCUs, the SAM C20 trades Wi-Fi/BLE for industrial bus robustness, ideal for factory-floor and smart-city sensor installations.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ATSAMC20E18A-AUT β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ATSAMC21E18A-AUT | ATSAMC20E17A-AUT | ATSAMC20E16A-AUT | ATSAMC21E17A-AUT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 32-TQFP (7x7 mm) | 32-TQFP (7x7) - same | 32-TQFP (7x7) - same | 32-TQFP (7x7) - same | 32-TQFP (7x7) - same |
| Core | Cortex-M0+ 48 MHz | Cortex-M0+ 48 MHz | Cortex-M0+ 48 MHz | Cortex-M0+ 48 MHz | Cortex-M0+ 48 MHz |
| Flash | 256 KB | 256 KB | 128 KB | 64 KB | 128 KB |
| EEPROM-Emulation Flash | 8 KB | 8 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB |
| SRAM | 32 KB | 32 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB |
| CAN-FD Controllers | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| USB 2.0 | No | Yes (FS device) | No | No | Yes (FS device) |
| Automotive (AEC-Q100) | Yes (Grade 1) | Yes (Grade 1) | Yes (Grade 1) | Yes (Grade 1) | Yes (Grade 1) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +125 C |
| Approx. 1k-piece Price (USD) | 2.85 | 3.20 | 2.60 | 2.40 | 3.00 |
Key Differentiators
- True 5V supply and 5V-tolerant I/O integrated in the same die (vs ATSAMD20E18A-AU)
- 256KB Flash in a 32-pin TQFP with CAN-FD (vs ATSAMC21E18A-AUT)
- Larger 8KB EEPROM-emulation Flash vs smaller C20/C21 variants (vs ATSAMC20E17A-AUT)
Design Notes
Place a 100nF X7R ceramic decoupling capacitor within 2 mm of every VDD/VSS pair on the ATSAMC20E18A-AUT. Add a bulk 4.7uF X5R on the AVDD pin and a ferrite bead in series with the analog supply if the digital load is heavy (>20 mA peak). The dual-supply pins (VDDIO and VDDANA) must be tied to the same rail unless the analog section is independently filtered. Estimated: peak VDD current at 48MHz with all peripherals active is approximately 15 mA.
Keep the 32 kHz crystal traces short and surrounded by a ground guard ring to avoid coupling noise into the XIN/XOUT pins. Route the CANH and CANL differential pair with 100-ohm impedance and matched length within 5 mm; place the CAN-FD transceiver within 10 mm of the MCU CAN pins. The SWDIO/SWCLK traces should be length-matched within 10 mm and not routed parallel to switching signals for more than 5 mm.
Do not leave unused SERCOM pins floating if the corresponding SERCOM is disabled - configure them as output-low or input with pull-up. The CAN-FD peripheral requires the matching transceiver; bare CAN_TX/CAN_RX lines will not meet ISO 11898-2 bus levels. When migrating from SAM D20 firmware, verify the GCLK and TCC prescaler settings because the SAM C20 family uses a different default clock tree topology.
Compliance Information
AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification confirmed by Microchip product page; RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip environmental documentation; lead-free matte-tin finish on TQFP leads.
