Microchip ATTINY84-20SSUR: An 8-Bit AVR Microcontroller Datasheet and Application Overview
The Microchip ATTINY84-20SSUR is a high-performance, low-power 8-bit microcontroller based on the AVR enhanced RISC architecture. Housed in a 14-pin SOIC package, this device combines a rich set of features with a compact form factor, making it an ideal solution for a vast array of embedded control applications, from consumer electronics and IoT nodes to industrial systems and hobbyist projects.
Core Architecture and Performance
At the heart of the ATTINY84 lies an advanced AVR RISC CPU. By executing powerful instructions in a single clock cycle, the device achieves a throughput approaching 1 MIPS per MHz, allowing designers to optimize power consumption versus processing speed. Operating at a maximum of 20 MHz under a 4.5V to 5.5V supply, it can handle complex tasks efficiently while its wide operating voltage range (1.8V - 5.5V) also enables low-power operation down to 1.8V at 4 MHz.
Key Memory and Peripheral Features
The microcontroller is equipped with 4 KB of In-System Self-Programmable Flash program memory, 256 Bytes of EEPROM, and 512 Bytes of Internal SRAM. This memory configuration is sufficient for a multitude of control algorithms and data storage needs.
Its peripheral set is remarkably diverse for a 14-pin device:
Two High-Speed PWM Channels: Crucial for precise control of motors, LEDs, and power converters.
10-Channel, 10-bit ADC: Allows for accurate analog sensor reading (e.g., temperature, light, potentiometers).
Universal Serial Interface (USI): A highly flexible hardware module that can be configured to implement SPI, I2C, or UART communication protocols, enabling connectivity with a wide range of sensors, displays, and other peripherals.
Analog Comparator: Useful for monitoring analog signals without using the ADC.
Multiple Sleep Modes: Including Idle, ADC Noise Reduction, and Power-Down, which are essential for battery-powered applications requiring ultra-low quiescent current.
Application Overview
The ATTINY84's blend of analog and digital capabilities makes it exceptionally versatile.
Sensor Hub: Its multiple I/O pins and 10-bit ADC are perfect for aggregating data from various analog and digital sensors.
Motor Control: The two PWM channels can independently control two small DC motors or one stepper motor in applications like robotics or fan controllers.
LED Control and Dimming: PWM functionality enables sophisticated LED dimming and pattern generation.
System Management: Functions as a dedicated companion microcontroller for handling power sequencing, button press monitoring, and fan control in larger systems.
DIY and Hobbyist Projects: Its small size and feature set make it a popular choice for Arduino-compatible boards (like the TinyCore) for building compact projects.
Development and Programming
Development is supported by a full suite of tools, including the Atmel Studio/Microchip MPLAB X IDE and the AVR-GCC compiler. The device is easily programmable via its Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), facilitating rapid prototyping and in-system updates.
In summary, the Microchip ATTINY84-20SSUR is a powerhouse in a small package. It successfully packs a high-performance CPU, substantial memory, advanced analog capabilities, and flexible serial communication into a 14-pin IC. Its low-power architecture and rich peripheral set make it an outstanding choice for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, and power-conscious embedded designs across countless industries.
Keywords: AVR Microcontroller, Low-Power, Embedded Systems, Peripheral Interface, PWM Control
