Microchip ATTINY45V-10XU: A Comprehensive Technical Overview
The Microchip ATTINY45V-10XU stands as a testament to the philosophy that immense capability can be embedded into a minimal form factor. As a member of the renowned AVR family of microcontrollers, this 8-bit RISC-based device is engineered for applications where space, power, and cost are at a premium, yet performance cannot be compromised. This overview delves into the core specifications, architecture, and key features that make this microcontroller a versatile choice for embedded designers.
Core Architecture and Performance
At the heart of the ATTINY45V-10XU lies a high-performance, low-power 8-bit AVR RISC architecture. The core can execute most instructions in a single clock cycle, achieving a throughput approaching 1 MIPS per MHz. This efficiency allows the system to achieve a balance between processing speed and power consumption. Operating at a maximum frequency of 10 MHz at a voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, this microcontroller is optimized for battery-powered and energy-harvesting applications. Its wide voltage range is a key feature, enabling direct operation from a variety of power sources, including two-cell batteries or a single lithium-cell battery.
Memory and Integration
The device is equipped with 4 KB of In-System Programmable Flash memory for storing application code, offering the flexibility for field updates. It also contains 256 bytes of EEPROM for non-volatile data storage and 256 bytes of SRAM for data manipulation during runtime. Despite its small size, the ATTINY45V-10XU integrates a rich set of peripherals, effectively reducing the need for external components. These include:
Two 8-bit timers/counters with PWM capabilities.
A versatile 4-channel, 10-bit ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) for sensing analog signals.
A Universal Serial Interface (USI) that can be configured for I2C, SPI, and serial communication.
An internal calibrated oscillator, eliminating the need for an external crystal in many applications.
Power Management and Packaging
A significant advantage of this microcontroller is its advanced power-saving management. It features multiple sleep modes, including Idle, ADC Noise Reduction, Standby, and Power-down. In Power-down mode, power consumption can be reduced to just a few nanoamps, making it ideal for devices that spend most of their life in a dormant state, waiting for an external interrupt to awaken. The part number suffix "XU" denotes its compact 8-pin SOIC package, which is suitable for automated assembly processes and space-constrained PCB designs.
Application Domains
The combination of its tiny footprint, low power consumption, and integrated analog capabilities makes the ATTINY45V-10XU perfectly suited for a vast array of applications. It is commonly found in:
Sensor nodes and IoT endpoints
Consumer electronics (remote controls, toys, accessories)
Personalized medical devices
System management controllers (e.g., handling power sequencing and fan control)
Hobbyist and DIY projects, particularly within the Arduino ecosystem using cores like TinyCore.
In summary, the Microchip ATTINY45V-10XU is a powerhouse of integration, perfectly embodying the concept of "more than meets the eye." Its blend of a robust RISC core, essential memory, critical analog and digital peripherals, and exceptional power efficiency in a minuscule package solidifies its status as a go-to solution for intelligent, compact, and power-sensitive designs across countless industries.
Keywords:
1. Low-Power
2. AVR
3. 8-bit Microcontroller
4. Integrated Peripherals
5. Small Form Factor
