Using AVRDUDE to Program Your AVR Microcontrollers

What is AVRDUDE?

AVRDUDE (AVR Downloader Uploader) is a versatile command-line tool used to upload and download .hex files and manage memory on Atmel AVR microcontrollers.

With AVRDUDE, you can:

• Read/write flash memory
• Access EEPROM
• Modify fuse and lock bits
• Check device signature

It also offers a terminal mode for interactive control and debugging of your microcontroller memory and fuse configurations.

---

Installing AVRDUDE

AVRDUDE is open-source and available for Linux, Windows, and macOS:

• Download: AVRDUDE Official
• Documentation: AVRDUDE User Manual

---

Basic AVRDUDE Commands

I typically use the usbasp programmer with an Atmega8 as the target MCU:

• Check device connectivity:
  avrdude -p m8 -c usbasp
• Enter terminal mode:
  avrdude -p m8 -c usbasp -t
• Write fuse bits:
  avrdude -p m8 -c usbasp -u -U hfuse:w:0xDF:m -U lfuse:w:0xEF:m
• Upload flash firmware:
  avrdude -p m8 -c usbasp -u -U flash:w:filename.hex
• Write EEPROM:
  avrdude -p m8 -c usbasp -u -U eeprom:w:filename.hex

---

Practical Notes

• Replace m8 with your target MCU (e.g., atmega328p).
• Replace usbasp with your programmer type if different.
• Replace filename.hex with your compiled hex file.

AVRDUDE is a must-have tool for serious AVR developers and hobbyists, allowing you full control over your microcontroller’s configuration and firmware deployment efficiently.

Happy Hacking!