Professional AVR Development Solution
The TC2030-ICESPI programming cable represents the pinnacle of professional AVR microcontroller development tools. Engineered specifically for Atmel-ICE compatibility, this cable bridges the gap between sophisticated debugging hardware and space-constrained embedded designs. The innovative Tag-Connect technology eliminates traditional programming headers whilst maintaining the reliability and functionality demanded by professional development environments.
Comprehensive Protocol Support
Supporting the complete spectrum of AVR programming interfaces, the TC2030-ICESPI ensures compatibility across the entire AVR microcontroller family. From classic ATmega devices using SPI and debugWIRE protocols to modern tinyAVR chips supporting TPI and UPDI interfaces, this single cable serves diverse development requirements.
Wiring Quick-Start Guide
Connecting the TC2030-ICESPI requires careful attention to the Atmel-ICE's unique pin arrangement. The 10-pin IDC connector features reversed pin numbering compared to standard ARM debug connectors, necessitating the LEMTA version for proper operation.
| TC2030 Pin | Signal | Atmel-ICE Pin | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MISO/TDO | 3 | Master In, Slave Out / Test Data Out |
| 2 | VTG | 4 | Target voltage reference |
| 3 | SCK/TCK | 1 | Serial Clock / Test Clock |
| 4 | MOSI/TDI | 9 | Master Out, Slave In / Test Data In |
| 5 | /RESET | 6 | Target reset (active low) |
| 6 | GND | 2,10 | Ground reference |
PCB Footprint Implementation
The TC2030 footprint requires precise implementation to ensure reliable mechanical and electrical connections. The design incorporates six contact pads with specific dimensions and four alignment holes for the legged connector variant.
Programming Protocol Details
SPI Interface Programming
The Serial Peripheral Interface provides the foundation for AVR programming across all device variants. Operating at frequencies up to 5MHz, SPI programming offers robust, reliable firmware updates with comprehensive fuse and lock bit control.
debugWIRE Interface
The debugWIRE protocol transforms the RESET pin into a bidirectional debugging interface, enabling real-time program execution control, breakpoint management, and memory inspection without additional hardware pins.
PDI Protocol for XMEGA Devices
Program and Debug Interface provides high-speed programming and debugging for XMEGA microcontrollers. Using a two-wire interface with clock and bidirectional data signals, PDI enables efficient flash, EEPROM, and configuration memory access.
Production Programming Considerations
For high-volume production environments, the TC2030-ICESPI-NL no-legs variant offers rapid programming cycles without mechanical wear on PCB footprints. The legged version excels in development scenarios requiring extended debugging sessions with hands-free operation.
Signal Integrity and Performance
The 6-inch cable length represents an optimal balance between flexibility and signal integrity. High-frequency programming protocols benefit from minimised transmission line effects, whilst the ribbon cable construction provides controlled impedance characteristics essential for reliable data transmission.
Compatibility and Ecosystem Integration
Beyond Atmel-ICE compatibility, the TC2030 ecosystem includes variants for SEGGER J-Link, ST-LINK, and PICkit programmers. This standardisation enables consistent PCB footprints across diverse debugging tool requirements, simplifying design validation and production programming workflows.