ATmega8-16PU (Atmel 8 Bit Micro-controller)

Overview

The ATmega8-16PU from Atmel (now Microchip) is a cornerstone of the 8-bit AVR microcontroller family. This DIP-28 package version is breadboard-friendly and perfect for through-hole prototyping. With a powerful RISC architecture, 8KB of Flash memory, and a rich set of peripherals, it offers an excellent balance of performance, power efficiency, and ease of use. Whether you are a student learning embedded systems or a professional developing a quick prototype, the ATmega8-16PU is a reliable and versatile choice.

Key Features

• 8-bit AVR RISC architecture with 130 powerful instructions, most executed in a single clock cycle.
• 8KB In-System Programmable Flash memory (10,000 write/erase cycles) for code storage.
• 1KB SRAM and 512 Bytes EEPROM for data storage.
• 23 programmable I/O lines for interfacing with LEDs, buttons, sensors, and more.
• 10-bit ADC with 6 channels (in DIP package) for analog sensor readings.
• Three flexible Timer/Counters with compare modes, PWM channels, and internal/external interrupts.
• Programmable Serial USART, SPI, and TWI (I2C) interfaces for communication.
• Operating voltage 4.5V to 5.5V with a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz.
• 28-pin DIP package – ideal for breadboards and through-hole soldering.

Technical Specifications

• CPU: 8-bit AVR
• Type: Atmel Microcontroller 28-pin DIP
• Flash Memory: 8 Kbytes
• SRAM: 1 Kbyte
• EEPROM: 512 Bytes
• Max I/O Pins: 23
• External Interrupts: 2
• Max. Operating Frequency: 16 MHz
• ADC: 10-bit, 6 channels
• Communication Interfaces: USART, SPI, TWI (I2C)
• Timers: 3 (2x 8-bit, 1x 16-bit)
• Operating Voltage: 4.5V – 5.5V
• Package: 28-pin DIP
• Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C

Applications & Use Cases

• Educational projects – ideal for learning AVR programming and embedded systems.
• Robotics – motor control, sensor interfacing, and decision-making logic.
• Home automation – simple control systems for lighting, temperature, and security.
• Data acquisition – read analog sensors like temperature, light, and pressure.
• Prototyping – quickly test ideas on a breadboard before moving to SMD.
• Industrial control – small-scale automation and monitoring.
• Arduino compatibility – can be used in custom Arduino boards (e.g., Arduino NG, older versions).

What's Included

• 1x ATmega8-16PU microcontroller (DIP-28)

Compatibility

• Programming: Compatible with AVR ISP, AVR Dragon, JTAGICE mkII, and USBasp programmers. Can be programmed via Arduino IDE (with appropriate bootloader) or Atmel Studio.
• Software: Works with AVR-GCC, Atmel Studio (Microchip Studio), Arduino IDE, and PlatformIO.
• Hardware: Breadboard-friendly DIP package; compatible with standard 28-pin IC sockets.
• Arduino: Can replace ATmega8 in Arduino boards (with bootloader) or be used in custom designs.

MOKWN Recommendation

The ATmega8-16PU is a fantastic entry point into AVR microcontrollers. Its DIP package makes it easy to handle, and its rich peripheral set covers most beginner to intermediate project needs. We recommend it for students, hobbyists, and engineers who want a dependable and cost-effective MCU for prototyping and learning. Pair it with a USBasp programmer and a breadboard to start your embedded journey today!