This document discusses the advantages of Atmel's megaAVR family of microcontrollers in terms of reducing time-to-market and improving production efficiency. It describes the development tools, on-chip resources, efficiency for high level languages, and fast and reliable programming capabilities of this microcontroller family.
The paper discusses why selecting the right microcontroller architecture, such as Atmel's megaAVR family, is crucial for short time‑to‑market. It highlights the need for good development tools, on‑chip resources, efficient high‑level language support, and flash program memory for fast, reliable programming.
It also covers production advantages, including easier procurement, the ability to handle multiple software versions, on‑chip debug that works on actual silicon, and integrated features like brown‑out protection, watchdog timer, EEPROM and internal RC oscillator that reduce component count and design complexity.
| Flash program memory | In‑System re‑programmable |
|---|---|
| Typical MCU size | 1‑2 KB flash |
| C compiler availability | Most 8‑bit architectures include a C‑compiler |
They simplify procurement, allow multiple software versions on the same device, enable in‑system re‑programming on the production line, and reduce component count with integrated features.
Developers can use the free AVR Studio simulator for simple designs, JTAGICE mk‑II for on‑chip debugging, and advanced in‑circuit emulators with trace and code‑coverage features for complex applications.
On‑chip debug allows debugging directly on the production silicon, eliminating many problems that occur when switching from an emulator to the real part.