Electronic – ATmega32u2 fuse bits – can destroy using FLIP

atmegabootloaderfuse-bitsprogramming

I want to build some simple application using ATmega32u2, and have it programmed strictly only via USB, by using the factory-builtin USB bootloader on µC, together with the "FLIP" program running on Windows computer.

I've read, that in ATmega32u2 there are so-called "fuse bits", which control some internal configuration. Also, on many forums I've seen calls for help from people who have accidentally reset/changed those bits (in various AVR chips), and now have problems programming their microcontroller.

Thus my question is: can fuse bits be set/destroyed via the FLIP program, over USB? If yes, then what should I "not touch", or what I must verify is set properly (and to what exact value?), to be safe against such problems?

Thanks.

Best Answer

Fuse bits can only be modified during conventional programming using a device like a Dragon, so you are quite safe. See Section 25 of the data sheet.