ZBasic Language Reference
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ZBasic Microcontrollers
Appendix K - ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u Hardware Reference
The ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u devices utilize the 44-pin TQFP package version of the Atmel AVR
ATxmega32A4 and ATxmega128A4U microcontrollers that have been programmed with a special ZX
control program. In order to use the ZX-32a4 or ZX-128a4u you must supply several additional
components as described below. In each of the diagrams presented below, only a portion of the ZX pins
is shown. Those that are not germane to the circuit being discussed are omitted for clarity.
K.1 ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u Specifications
The electrical specifications of the ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u are exactly those of the ATxmega32A4 and
ATxmega128A4U, respectively. Rather than reproducing them here the reader is directed to the
datasheet published by Atmel. It can be obtained from the Atmel website |http://www.atmel.com or from
the ZBasic website |http://www.zbasic.net.
K.2 ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u Required External Components
The circuits described below represent the minimum external circuitry required to operate the ZX-32a4
and ZX-128a4u. Depending on your application, you may need additional circuitry to take advantage of
the capabilities of the ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u series devices. In contrast to some other ZX devices, the
ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u devices do not require an external EEPROM for program storage. Rather, the
compiled user program is stored in the ZX’s internal Flash memory. The maximum user program size is
32K for the ZX-32a4 and 128K for the ZX-128a4u.
Power Source
The ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u need a regulated voltage source capable of providing at least 200mA of
current. The ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u will operate reliably with a supply voltage between 2.6 volts and
3.6 volts. A recommended circuit is shown below. A suitable heatsink will probably be required in most
cases to keep the regulator IC below its maximum operating temperature. Consult the regulator
datasheet for more information.
ZX-32a4 and ZX-128a4u Power Source
If you do not plan to use the Analog-to-Digital converter channels you can eliminate the inductor and the
capacitor on the right side of the diagram. In this case, pin 39 would be connected directly to the power
source (same as pins 9, 19 and 31). Although not shown on this diagram, the ground pins of the chip
(pins 8, 18, 30 and 38) must be connected to the common ground of the system.
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