Datasheet
Figure 19-3. Output Compare Unit, Block Diagram
OCFnx (Int.Req.)
= (8-bit Comparator )
OCRnx
OCnx
DATA BUS
TCNTn
WGMn[1:0]
Waveform Generator
top
FOCn
COMnx[1:0]
bottom
The OCR2x Register is double buffered when using any of the Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) modes.
For the Normal and Clear Timer on Compare (CTC) modes of operation, the double buffering is disabled.
The double buffering synchronizes the update of the OCR2x Compare Register to either top or bottom of
the counting sequence. The synchronization prevents the occurrence of odd-length, non-symmetrical
PWM pulses, thereby making the output glitch-free.
The OCR2x Register access may seem complex, but this is not case. When the double buffering is
enabled, the CPU has access to the OCR2x Buffer Register, and if double buffering is disabled the CPU
will access the OCR2x directly.
Related Links
Modes of Operation on page 133
19.5.1. Force Output Compare
In non-PWM waveform generation modes, the match output of the comparator can be forced by writing a
one to the Force Output Compare (FOC2x) bit. Forcing compare match will not set the OCF2x Flag or
reload/clear the timer, but the OC2x pin will be updated as if a real compare match had occurred (the
COM2x[1:0] bits settings define whether the OC2x pin is set, cleared or toggled).
19.5.2. Compare Match Blocking by TCNT2 Write
All CPU write operations to the TCNT2 Register will block any compare match that occurs in the next
timer clock cycle, even when the timer is stopped. This feature allows OCR2x to be initialized to the same
value as TCNT2 without triggering an interrupt when the Timer/Counter clock is enabled.
19.5.3. Using the Output Compare Unit
Since writing TCNT2 in any mode of operation will block all compare matches for one timer clock cycle,
there are risks involved when changing TCNT2 when using the Output Compare channel, independently
of whether the Timer/Counter is running or not. If the value written to TCNT2 equals the OCR2x value, the
Atmel ATmega644A [DATASHEET]
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