Microchip AT91SAM9XE512B-CU: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Microchip AT91SAM9XE512B-CU represents a significant integration of processing power and memory within the ARM9-based microcontroller family. This device is engineered for high-performance, low-power embedded applications that demand a rich set of peripherals coupled with substantial on-chip, non-volatile memory. It is particularly suited for industrial control, point-of-sale terminals, network appliances, and data acquisition systems.

At the core of this microcontroller lies the ARM926EJ-S processor, which operates at speeds up to 400 MHz. This core incorporates a Java accelerator and a Memory Management Unit (MMU), enabling it to run full-featured operating systems such as Linux, Windows CE, and various real-time operating systems (RTOS). The processor's efficiency in handling complex computations and multitasking makes it a robust choice for sophisticated embedded designs.

A defining characteristic of the AT91SAM9XE512B-CU is its 512 Kbytes of integrated Flash memory. This high-density, single-voltage Flash memory is connected to the processor via a 32-bit bus, allowing for zero-wait-state execution at maximum processor speed. This architecture significantly enhances performance by eliminating the bottlenecks typically associated with external memory interfaces, while also reducing overall system cost and power consumption.

The memory subsystem is further bolstered by 128 Kbytes of on-chip SRAM, configurable as either tightly coupled memory (TCM) or system memory. This SRAM is essential for high-speed data processing, serving as a scratchpad for critical algorithms and a buffer for peripheral operations.

The peripheral set integrated into this microcontroller is extensive and designed for connectivity and control. Key features include:

A USB 2.0 Full-Speed Host and Device Controller with an integrated PHY.

A 10/100 Mbps Ethernet MAC with a dedicated DMA controller, facilitating network connectivity.

Multiple serial communication interfaces, including USARTs, SPIs, TWIs (I²C compatible), and a Synchronous Serial Controller (SSC).

Analog capabilities are provided by an 8-channel 10-bit ADC.

Timers, a Periodic Interval Timer (PIT), Watchdog Timer, and a debug unit are also included for system management and reliability.

Housed in a 100-pin LFBGA package (CU), the device is designed for space-constrained applications. Its operating voltage ranges from 1.65V to 1.95V for the core and 3.0V to 3.6V for the I/Os, emphasizing its focus on low-power operation.

ICGOOODFIND: The AT91SAM9XE512B-CU is a highly integrated solution that stands out for its combination of a high-speed ARM9 core, a large amount of on-chip zero-wait-state Flash, and a comprehensive suite of communication peripherals. It effectively reduces system complexity and bill-of-materials (BOM) cost for demanding embedded applications.

Keywords:

1. ARM926EJ-S

2. Integrated Flash

3. Zero-Wait-State

4. Peripheral Set

5. Embedded Applications