EmbeddedRelated.com
The 2026 Embedded Online Conference
    Parts    ATMEGA256RFR2
ATMEGA256RFR2

MCHPATMEGA256RFR2

Microchip Technology
Higher-memory AVR-based MCU with integrated 2.4 GHz transceiver for designs needing more flash/RAM while staying in the AVR + radio family.
Active6,781 in stock
Datasheet Digi-Key Mouser Compare Prices

Overview

The ATMEGA256RFR2 is a low-power 8-bit AVR RISC-based microcontroller featuring an integrated 2.4 GHz RF transceiver. It provides a high-density 256kB Flash memory and 32kB SRAM to support complex Zigbee and IEEE 802.15.4 wireless stacks within a single 64-VFQFN package.

Why Choose This Part

This SoC combines a high-memory AVR core with a radio that features hardware-assisted MAC functions like auto-acknowledge and auto-retry to reduce CPU overhead. It offers a wide operating voltage from 1.8V to 3.6V and a sensitive -100dBm receiver for extended range without external LNAs.

Applications

Zigbee Mesh Networking
Large-scale sensor networks requiring significant code space for full Zigbee Pro or Zigbee IP stacks.
Smart Lighting Control
Integrated PWM and RF capability for controlling LED drivers in connected building automation.
Industrial Wireless Monitoring
Robust data collection using the -100dBm RX sensitivity and hardware-assisted MAC for reliable transmission in noisy environments.

Key Specifications

GPIO 35
Type TxRx + MCU
Protocol Zigbee
Frequency 2.4GHz
Modulation DSSS, O-QPSK
Memory Size 256kB Flash, 8kB EEPROM, 32kB SRAM
Sensitivity -100dBm
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Package / Case 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
Power - Output 3.5dBm
Data Rate (Max) 2Mbps
Voltage - Supply 1.8V ~ 3.6V
Serial Interfaces I2C, JTAG, SPI, USART
RF Family/Standard 802.15.4
Current - Receiving 5mA ~ 12.5mA
Operating Temperature -40degC ~ 85degC
Current - Transmitting 8mA ~ 14.5mA
Supplier Device Package 64-QFN (9x9)

Getting Started

Development is supported by Microchip Studio and the Atmel ICE debugger using the standard AVR ISP or JTAG interfaces. Engineers can utilize the BitCloud Zigbee stack and the AVR Software Framework (ASF) to accelerate wireless implementation on the 16MHz core.

Also Consider

ATMEGA128RFA1 MCHPMicrochip Technology - A similar AVR radio SoC with less Flash and RAM for cost-sensitive applications with smaller code footprints.
The 2026 Embedded Online Conference