Texas Instruments MSP430A023IPMR

Overview

MSP430A023IPMR from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC mixed-signal microcontroller featuring integrated 96-segment LCD driver, on-chip comparator, FLL+ clock system, and five power-saving modes. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, draws 200 μA active current at 1 MHz/2.2 V, and supports wake-up from standby in under 6 μs. It targets battery-powered portable measurement devices such as handheld meters and sensor readout systems.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430A023IPMR datasheet, MSP430A023IPMR pinout, MSP430A023IPMR application, or MSP430A023IPMR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin QFP (PM) package, 4 KB Flash + 256 B RAM memory configuration, Timer_A3 with three capture/compare registers, integrated LCD segment drive capability, and support for JTAG debugging and UART-based BSL programming.

Technical Context

The MSP430A023IPMR implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with 125-ns instruction cycle time, constant generators, and seven addressing modes for high code efficiency. Its FLL+ module locks the DCO to a programmable multiple of ACLK (e.g., 32.768 kHz crystal), enabling stable MCLK up to 8 MHz without external high-frequency crystals.

It integrates dual supply domains (DVCC/DVSS and AVCC/AVSS), dedicated LCD bias generation (R03–R33 pins), and hardware peripherals including Timer_A3 (three CC registers), comparator_A, watchdog timer, and basic timer. The device uses a unified memory-mapped I/O architecture where peripherals are accessed via special function registers at fixed addresses.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin Plastic Quad Flat Package (QFP), suffix PM - RoHS-compliant, 10 mm × 10 mm body, 0.5 mm lead pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller applications.

Compared with MSP430A023IPMR, the MSP430F413IPMR offers double Flash capacity for feature-rich firmware, while the MSP430F412IRTD delivers identical functionality in a smaller QFN package-both retain the same ultra-low-power operation, LCD driver, and FLL+ clock architecture.

Availability

MSP430A023IPMR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for handheld meters, portable gas detectors, and smart utility meters requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MSP430A023IPMR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies with decades of MCU innovation.

The MSP430x41x product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power portable instrumentation and battery-operated display-centric applications, emphasizing integrated analog peripherals, LCD support, and sub-μA sleep modes.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430A023IPMR?

The MSP430A023IPMR supports an MCLK frequency up to 8 MHz, derived from the FLL+ module locked to the 32.768 kHz ACLK reference. This enables deterministic real-time execution while maintaining ultralow power consumption-critical for time-sensitive sensor sampling and display refresh in portable instruments.

Does the MSP430A023IPMR support JTAG debugging?

Yes, the MSP430A023IPMR supports full IEEE 1149.1 JTAG debugging via dedicated TCK, TMS, TDI, and TDO pins. This enables real-time emulation, flash programming, and boundary-scan testing-essential for development and production validation of safety-critical firmware.

How many LCD segments can the MSP430A023IPMR drive?

The MSP430A023IPMR integrates hardware to drive up to 96 LCD segments with 1/4-duty and 1/3-bias configuration. It provides four COM outputs (COM0–COM3) and 24 SEG outputs mapped across P2–P5 ports, eliminating the need for external LCD driver ICs in compact display applications.

What is the role of the R03–R33 pins on the MSP430A023IPMR?

R03, R13, R23, and R33 are dedicated analog inputs/outputs for generating LCD bias voltages. R33 outputs the highest positive LCD voltage (V1), while R03 inputs the lowest (V5). These pins enable internal resistive ladder biasing-reducing external component count and improving display contrast stability across temperature.

Is the MSP430A023IPMR pin-compatible with other MSP430x41x family members?

Yes, the MSP430A023IPMR shares the same 64-pin QFP (PM) package and identical pin mapping with MSP430F412IPMR and MSP430F413IPMR. This allows direct substitution in existing designs when upgrading Flash size or leveraging identical peripheral functionality without PCB revision.