ATtiny43U with built-in boost-converter!

Robotics and electronics discussion Software and microcontrollers
1

Just noticed the new ATtiny43U. It can run on a power source in the normalish range (1.8V-5.5V), or from one as low as 0.7V using an on-chip boost converter, perfect for a single alkaline, NiCad, or NiMH cell. It will produce 60mA at 3V, so you can use it to power a couple of other low-current devices as well.

Apparently this has been in the works for a while, as WinAVR already supports it (nice!). I was more excited until I looked at the datasheet and saw that you had to supply external components to use it (inductor, diode, capacitors). I also wish it had a real USART and not just a USI, but its still pretty darn cool!

Now I’m thinking of smart-dust, or even just smart-throwie applications!

-Adam

2

That’s pretty cool. I’m sad about some of the tradeoffs (4 MHz max with boost regulator (and internal RC is 8 MHz), 1.8 V max input), but I hope it’s an indication of more fun parts to come.

- Ja