ATTINY13: Datasheet, Pinout, and Simple Motor Control Guide

Executive Summary: What is the ATTINY13?

The ATTINY13 is a low-power CMOS 8-bit microcontroller based on the AVR enhanced RISC architecture, designed to execute powerful instructions in a single clock cycle for efficient processing in space-constrained applications. 

• Market Position: High-volume, low-cost legacy controller for simple tasks where 32-bit MCUs are overkill. 

• Top Features:     

• Up to 20 MIPS throughput at 20 MHz. 

• 1KB In-System Programmable Flash with 64 Bytes EEPROM. 

• OPERATING Voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V (ATTINY13A variant).

• Primary Audience: Ideal for IoT designers, hobbyists, and cost-sensitive consumer electronics manufacturers.

• Supply Status: Active. Widely available with high search volume, though "Not Recommended for New Designs" (NRND) warnings may appear for specific non-A variants; the ATTINY13A is the preferred modern alternative.

ATTINY13 microcontroller product photo

1. Technical Specifications & Performance Analysis

1.1 Core Architecture (CPU/Logic/Power)

The ATTINY13 utilizes the AVR RISC architecture. It features 32 general-purpose working registers connected directly to the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU). This design allows two independent registers to be accessed in one single instruction executed in one clock cycle, optimizing power consumption versus processing speed. With 1KB of Flash memory, it is strictly intended for "bare-metal" C or Assembly code, as heavy libraries will quickly deplete resources.

1.2 Key Electrical Characteristics

Engineers must note the power profiles for reliable operation, particularly in battery-powered devices.

• Operating Voltage:

• 1.8V to 5.5V (ATTINY13A)

• 2.7V to 5.5V (Standard ATTINY13)

• Clock Speed: 0 - 20 MHz (at 4.5V - 5.5V).

• Memory:

• Flash: 1 KB (Self-Programmable)

• SRAM: 64 Bytes (Internal)

• EEPROM: 64 Bytes

• Peripherals: 4-channel 10-bit ADC, Analog Comparator, and Watchdog Timer.

1.3 Interfaces and Connectivity

Despite its small size, the ATTINY13 offers essential connectivity for sensor interfacing and simple logic control. 

I/O Pins: 6 Programmable I/O Lines (PB0–PB5). 

Timers: One 8-bit Timer/Counter with Prescaler. 

PWM: Two PWM channels (ideal for dimming LEDs or driving small motors). 

Debug: DebugWIRE On-chip Debug System.

ATTINY13 functional block diagram

2. Pinout, Package, and Configuration

2.1 Pin Configuration Guide

ATTINY13 pinout diagram

The ATTINY13 is typically an 8-pin device. The pin functions are multiplexed:

• Pin 1 (PB5/RESET): Acts as the Reset pin or I/O (if fuses programmed, but disables ISP).

• Pin 4 (GND): Ground reference.

• Pin 8 (VCC): Supply voltage.

• Pin 2, 3 (PB3, PB4): Analog inputs (ADC2, ADC3) or General I/O.

• Pin 5, 6, 7 (PB0, PB1, PB2): PWM outputs, External Interrupts, and SPI (MOSI/MISO/SCK) for programming.

2.2 Naming Convention & Ordering Codes

Understanding the Part Numbers:The suffix determines the package and temperature rating. 

SSU: Surface Mount (SOIC), Industrial (-40°C to +85°C), Lead-Free. 

PU: Through-hole (PDIP), Industrial, Lead-Free. 

MMU: Micro Lead Frame (MLF/QFN), very small footprint. 

A-series (e.g., ATTINY13A): newer, lower power manufacturing process (Picopower).

2.3 Available Packages

3. Design & Integration Guide (For Engineers & Makers)

Pro Tip: Always verify pin compatibility before migrating from older series. The specific interrupt vectors may differ from ATtiny25/45/85.

3.1 Hardware Implementation

• Bypass Capacitors: Place a 100nF ceramic capacitor as close as possible between VCC and GND to filter high-frequency noise.

• PCB Layout: Keep the trace from the bypass capacitor to the ground pin short. No heatsink is required due to low power dissipation.

• Programming Interface: Ensure headers for ISP (MISO, MOSI, SCK, RESET) are accessible for in-circuit programming.

3.2 Common Design Challenges

Based on engineering feedback and forum discussions, here are the top "Pain Points" and their solutions:

1. Extremely Limited RAM/Flash

• The Issue: With only 1KB Flash/64B SRAM, standard libraries (like Arduino's Delay() or Serial) often fail.

• The Fix: Use Assembly (ASM) or highly optimized bare-metal C. Use direct port manipulation (e.g., PORTB |= (1<<PB0)) instead of abstraction layers.

2. Low Pin Count for Peripherals

• The Issue: 6 I/O pins are insufficient for driving displays (LCDs) or keypads directly.

• The Fix: Integrate shift registers (74HC595) to expand digital outputs using only 3 pins.

3. Toolchain Frustrations

• The Issue: Modern MPLAB X IDEs can feel bloated for such a simple chip.

• The Fix: Utilize AVR-GCC via command line or use VS Code with PlatformIO for a lightweight, efficient workflow.

4. Typical Applications & Use Cases

📺 Video Recommendation: ATTINY13 Guide

4.1 Real-World Example: Smart Timer Switch

A common application for the ATTINY13 is a delayed-off timer for bathroom ventilation fans. 

 Input: Reads a momentary push-button via one I/O pin (PB3). 

Logic: The 8-bit timer counts roughly 10 minutes. 

Output: PB0 drives an optocoupler/relay to cut power to the fan. 

Advantage: The chip's sleep mode reduces standby current to microamps, allowing it to run off a simple capacitive dropper or small battery for years.

ATTINY13 application circuit schematic

5. Alternatives and Cross-Reference Guide

Ideally, stick to the ATTINY13A for active production. However, strictly based on specifications and footprint, consider these alternatives:

• Direct Replacements / Upgrades:

• ATTINY85: Same pinout but significantly more memory (8KB Flash) and features.

• Microchip PIC12F675: Closest competitor in the PIC ecosystem (8-pin, Flash-based).

• Competitor Equivalents:

• STMicroelectronics STM8S001J3: An 8-pin option offering high performance at a low price point.

• Texas Instruments MSP430G2211: Excellent for ultra-low power needs, though architecture differs significantly.

• Silicon Labs EFM8BB10: A performant 8051-based alternative in small packages.

• Cost vs. Performance:

• For simpler logic, the ATTINY13 is often cheaper than the ATTINY85.

• For complex math or USB support, upgrade to ATTINY85.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What is the difference between ATTINY13 and ATTINY13A?

• A: The ATTINY13A is the updated "PicoPower" version. It covers a wider voltage range (1.8V–5.5V) and consumes less power than the original non-A version.

• Q: Can ATTINY13 be used in automotive applications?

• A: Yes, standard variants operate up to 85°C. For automotive, look for specific "Automotive Grade" ordering codes if available, or ensure the design handles 12V transients via regulation.

• Q: Where can I find the datasheet and library files for ATTINY13?

• A: The official datasheet is ID DS40002307A. Libraries are often community-maintained (e.g., MicroCore for Arduino IDE).

• Q: Is ATTINY13 suitable for battery-operated devices?

• A: Absolutely. Its wide voltage range (down to 1.8V) and low-power sleep modes make it excellent for coin-cell powered nodes.

• Q: How do I program the ATTINY13 using Arduino?

• A: You can use an "Arduino as ISP" setup. Connect the SPI pins (10, 11, 12, 13 on Uno) to the ATTINY13's MISO, MOSI, SCK, and Reset pins.

7. Datasheets & Resources

• Official Datasheet: Download DS40002307A PDF

• Development Ecosystem: Microchip Studio, MPLAB X, PlatformIO.