AT91SAM7X256-AU: Performance and Connectivity Options
Overview
The AT91SAM7X256-AU is a 32-bit microcontroller based on the ARM7TDMI-S core launched by Microchip (formerly Atmel). It integrates Ethernet MAC, USB, CAN controller, 256KB Flash memory and 64KB SRAM, and is designed for applications requiring network communication and embedded control.
The device uses an LQFP-100 package, has an operating frequency of up to 55MHz, provides rich peripheral interfaces and a high-performance bus structure, and is an ideal choice for applications such as industrial control, IoT nodes, embedded gateways, and smart meters.
Core parameters
Parameter | Numerical |
kernel | ARM7TDMI-S (32-bit RISC) |
Main frequency | 55 MHz |
Flash memory | 256 KB |
SRAM | 64 KB |
Ethernet interface | 10/100 Mbps Ethernet MAC |
USB port | USB 2.0 Full Speed Device Port |
CAN bus | Support 1 CAN 2.0B |
Serial interface | 2 × USART, SPI, TWI (I²C compatible) |
ADC | 8-channel 10-bit ADC |
Timer/Counter | Four 16-bit timers |
Watchdog Timer | support |
Supply voltage range | 1.65V–1.95V core power supply, 3.0V–3.6VI/O power supply |
Number of I/O pins | 64 programmable I/Os |
Operating temperature range | –40°C to +85°C (Industrial) |
Package Type | LQFP-100 |
Peripheral DMA controller | support |
JTAG/SWD | Provide debugging and programming interface |
Features
Network communication integration
Built-in Ethernet MAC enables embedded network communication without external control chip.
Rich interfaces
Integrates USB, CAN, SPI, USART, I²C, etc., suitable for industrial and embedded multi-protocol environments.
Suitable for real-time control
The 55MHz ARM7 core provides efficient instruction execution, supporting fast response and real-time processing.
Flexible storage
Built-in 256KB Flash and 64KB SRAM can meet the needs of small and medium-sized applications.
Low power design
Provides multiple power management modes, including standby, idle, and power-down modes.
Industrial-grade reliability
A wide temperature range of –40°C to +85°C makes it suitable for harsh industrial environments.
Typical application scenarios
Industrial Control Gateway
For use in PLCs, smart gateways, and industrial communication nodes.
Embedded Ethernet devices
Network printers, Ethernet sensors, smart home controllers.
Smart Meters
Metering systems with remote communication capabilities, such as electricity meters, water meters, and gas flow meters.
Cars and Transportation
CAN bus controller, on-board data recording unit.
Internet of Things (IoT) nodes
An edge computing device connected to the cloud platform via Ethernet or USB.
Performance Comparison
Index | AT91SAM7X256-AU | STM32F103 (ARM Cortex-M3) |
Kernel architecture | ARM7TDMI-S | ARM Cortex-M3 |
Main frequency | 55MHz | 72MHz |
Flash | 256KB | 128KB / 256KB |
SRAM | 64KB | 20KB / 48KB |
Ethernet MAC | support | Not supported |
CAN bus | support | support |
USB | support | support |
Industrial communication capabilities | Strong (Ethernet + CAN) | medium |
The outstanding advantage of AT91SAM7X256-AU is its integrated Ethernet MAC , which makes it more competitive in embedded network communication applications.
Manufacturer Profile: Microchip Technology
Microchip is a world-renowned supplier of microcontrollers and analog semiconductors. Atmel’s ARM7/ARM Cortex series products have been fully integrated into Microchip’s MCU product line. The AT91SAM7X256-AU, a classic ARM7 series MCU, has numerous applications in embedded Ethernet and industrial control.
Why choose AT91SAM7X256-AU?
● Built-in Ethernet + CAN + USB to meet various communication needs
● Based on ARM7 core, stable performance, mature ecosystem
● Industrial-grade operating temperature, suitable for harsh environments
● Sufficient storage resources to support medium-sized embedded applications
● Compatible with JTAG/SWD, easy development and debugging
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can it be used directly as an embedded web server?
The AT91SAM7X256-AU has a built-in 10/100Mbps Ethernet MAC controller, which can be connected to an external Ethernet PHY to form a complete network interface. Combined with a lightweight TCP/IP stack (such as lwIP or uIP ), it can implement embedded web server functionality for web page parameter configuration, remote device control, and data monitoring. Due to limited on-chip resources, it is recommended to carefully plan web page content and dynamic scripts in the design to implement lightweight human-computer interaction or remote management functions.
Q2: Does it support a real-time operating system (RTOS)?
Yes, the AT91SAM7X256-AU, based on the ARM7TDMI core, supports a variety of lightweight RTOSes, including FreeRTOS and uC/OS-II . Combined with its interrupt controller and timer peripherals, it enables efficient task scheduling and real-time response. The RTOS makes it easier to manage network protocol stacks, peripheral drivers, and user application tasks, improving system scalability and development efficiency.
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