Microchip ATTINY4-TS8R: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Microchip ATTINY4-TS8R represents a pinnacle of miniaturization and efficiency within the 8-bit AVR microcontroller family. Housed in an ultra-compact 8-pin SOT-23 package, this device is engineered for space-constrained, cost-sensitive, and low-power applications, offering a surprising level of performance for its diminutive size.

At the core of the ATTINY4-TS8R lies a high-performance AVR CPU with a Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) architecture. This core is capable of executing instructions in a single clock cycle, achieving a throughput of up to 12 MIPS at 12 MHz, ensuring efficient and speedy processing for its intended tasks. The microcontroller operates over a wide voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, making it exceptionally versatile for both battery-powered and line-powered systems.

Its memory configuration is tailored for small-footprint applications. It features 512 words of Flash program memory for code storage and 32 bytes of SRAM for data handling. A standout feature is its 64 bytes of EEPROM, which provides non-volatile storage for critical data such as calibration constants or device parameters without requiring constant power.

The peripheral set of the ATTINY4-TS8R is robust for its class. It includes a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with 4 channels, enabling precise measurement of analog signals. For control and waveform generation, it is equipped with two 8-bit timer/counters and one 16-bit timer/counter. A crucial feature highlighted in its suffix is the 'R', denoting an internal calibrated RC oscillator. This integrated clock source, factory-calibrated to ±10% accuracy at 3V and 25°C, eliminates the need for an external crystal or resonator, further reducing the Bill of Materials (BOM) and board space.

Ultra-low power consumption is a key design philosophy. The device supports multiple sleep modes, including Idle, Standby, and Power-Down, allowing designers to create systems that spend most of their life in a low-power state, waking only to perform tasks, thereby maximizing battery life.

The TS8 package (SOT-23-6) is a significant advantage, allowing this microcontroller to be integrated into incredibly small form factors like wearable electronics, miniature sensors, and disposable medical devices. Its operational temperature range of -40°C to +85°C ensures reliability in harsh environmental conditions.

Typical applications are vast and include:

Portable Consumer Electronics (toys, sensors, remote controls)

System Management Functions (fan control, power sequencing, keyboard scanning)

IoT Sensor Nodes

Miniature Appliance Control

Industrial and Automotive Control Logic

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip ATTINY4-TS8R is a highly integrated, cost-optimized solution that punches far above its weight. Its combination of a self-contained clock source, substantial memory for its size, versatile analog and digital peripherals, and an ultra-miniature package makes it an ideal choice for engineers designing the next generation of compact and intelligent products.

Keywords:

1. 8-bit AVR Microcontroller

2. Ultra-Low Power

3. Internal Oscillator

4. SOT-23 Package

5. Cost-Optimized