Texas Instruments MSP430F1121ACY
- Part No.:
- MSP430F1121ACY
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MSP430F1121ACY.pdf
- Description:
- MSP430F1121A 16-BIT ULTRA-LOW-PO
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Product details
Overview
MSP430F1121ACY from Texas Instruments is an ultralow-power 16-bit RISC mixed-signal microcontroller with 4KB flash memory, 256B RAM, and integrated Timer_A3, analog comparator, and 14 I/O pins. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, achieves 160 μA active current at 1 MHz/2.2 V, and wakes from standby in under 6 μs - optimized for battery-powered sensor nodes and portable measurement systems.
For engineers reviewing the MSP430F1121ACY datasheet, MSP430F1121ACY pinout, MSP430F1121ACY application, or MSP430F1121ACY equivalent, key selection criteria include flash-based programmability, sub-1 μA LPM3/LPM4 current, 32-kHz crystal support, and JTAG/BSL in-system programming capability without external voltage.
Technical Context
The MSP430F1121ACY implements a 16-bit CPU with seven addressing modes and constant generators for high code efficiency. Its basic clock module supports multiple sources: internal DCO (stabilizes <6 μs), 32-kHz watch crystal, external resistor, or high-frequency crystal - enabling flexible low-power timing across operating modes.
It features two 8-bit I/O ports (P1: 8 pins; P2: 6 exposed pins), Timer_A3 with three capture/compare registers, and Comparator_A for slope A/D conversion or analog monitoring. All peripherals are memory-mapped and accessible via standard instructions, with interrupt vectors located in upper flash (0xFFE0–0xFFFF).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | 16-bit RISC CPU with 16 general-purpose registers and constant generators - enables single-cycle register operations and compact firmware. |
| Memory | 4KB flash + 256B RAM - supports in-system reprogramming via JTAG or BSL UART; flash segmented for selective erase. |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - compatible with single-cell Li-ion, coin-cell, or regulated 3.3 V rails without level-shifting. |
| Active Current | 160 μA at 1 MHz / 2.2 V - enables multi-year operation on small batteries in periodic-sensing applications. |
| Low-Power Modes | LPM3: 0.7 μA (ACLK active); LPM4: 0.1 μA (all clocks off) - extends sleep duration while retaining RAM and wake-up capability. |
| Wake-Up Time | <6 μs from LPM3/LPM4 - ensures rapid response to external interrupts (e.g., sensor triggers) without latency penalties. |
| Timer Resource | Timer_A3 with 3 capture/compare registers - supports PWM generation, input capture, interval timing, and interrupt-driven event sequencing. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 20-pin Plastic Small-Outline Wide Body (SOWB, DW package). Pin count and function mapping confirmed per SLAS241I Rev. I Figure 3 (DW/PW/DGV top view).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VCC (Pin 2) | Power supply input | Primary 1.8–3.6 V supply rail; decoupling capacitor required near pin for stable low-power operation. |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground reference | System ground return; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into analog peripherals. |
| RST/NMI (Pin 7) | Reset/nonmaskable interrupt | Active-low reset input; also serves as NMI source - critical for fault recovery and watchdog timeout handling. |
| XIN (Pin 6), XOUT (Pin 5) | Crystal oscillator terminals | Supports 32.768 kHz watch crystal for precise real-time clocking; internal load caps eliminate external components. |
| P1.0/TACLK (Pin 13) | Timer_A clock input | External clock source for Timer_A - enables asynchronous timing independent of system clocks (MCLK/SMCLK/ACLK). |
| P2.2/CAOUT/TA0 (Pin 10) | Comparator output / Timer_A channel 0 | Drives comparator result or Timer_A CCI0B capture signal - used for slope A/D conversion or pulse-width modulation feedback. |
| TEST (Pin 1) | JTAG test mode select | Enables boundary-scan and flash programming via JTAG interface; tied high during normal operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultralow-power operation | 0.1 μA in LPM4 retains RAM state - enables decade-scale battery life in intermittently active sensor endpoints. |
| Integrated analog comparator | Supports precision slope A/D conversion on resistive sensors - eliminates need for external ADC in simple threshold-detection systems. |
| On-chip flash memory | 4KB flash with segment erase and BSL UART programming - allows field firmware updates without dedicated programmers. |
| Digital I/O flexibility | 14 individually configurable I/O pins with edge-selectable interrupts - simplifies direct interfacing with switches, encoders, and digital sensors. |
| Fast wake-up capability | <6 μs wake from LPM3/LPM4 - meets strict real-time response requirements in wireless sensor network duty-cycling. |
Applications
| Wireless Sensor Node | Portable Medical Monitor |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity node transmitting data via sub-GHz RF transceiver on scheduled intervals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central controller managing sensor readout, data processing, low-power sleep scheduling, and RF interface timing. Use Value: Sub-1 μA LPM3/LPM4 current extends 10-year battery life; 6 μs wake-up ensures timely response to sensor-triggered events. |
Use Scenario: Handheld blood glucose meter with LCD display, button interface, and electrochemical sensor front-end. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mixed-signal controller executing analog sensor biasing, comparator-based A/D, display refresh, and user input scanning. Use Value: Integrated comparator enables slope A/D for low-cost glucose strip reading; 4KB flash stores calibration tables and firmware. |
| Smart Utility Meter | Industrial Asset Tag |
|
Use Scenario: Battery-operated water/gas meter logging flow pulses and transmitting consumption data daily via LPWAN. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Pulse counter and time-stamping engine using Timer_A3 capture mode and RTC via 32-kHz crystal. Use Value: Crystal-backed ACLK provides ±20 ppm accuracy over −40°C to 85°C; flash memory stores lifetime usage logs securely. |
Use Scenario: Passive RFID-enhanced asset tag with onboard temperature/humidity logging and NFC wake-up trigger. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Ultra-low-power data logger capturing environmental data during NFC field exposure and storing in flash. Use Value: 0.1 μA LPM4 current minimizes self-discharge; BSL UART allows post-deployment firmware patching via NFC reader. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar mixed-signal microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSP430F1132ACY | 8KB flash, 256B RAM, same package and peripheral set - adds 4KB program space and one extra comparator input. | Suitable for applications requiring larger firmware footprint or dual-sensor monitoring (e.g., temp + humidity + battery voltage). | Select when future firmware expansion or additional analog inputs are anticipated; pin-compatible but requires flash layout adjustment. |
| MSP430F2132IRHBT | QFN-32 package, 8KB flash, 512B RAM, enhanced USCI module - not pin-compatible; higher integration but different footprint. | Better suited for designs needing UART/SPI/I²C communication or higher memory headroom, with PCB redesign tolerance. | Choose for new designs prioritizing serial connectivity and scalability; not a drop-in replacement due to package and pinout mismatch. |
Compared with MSP430F1121ACY, the F1132 offers more flash for complex algorithms while maintaining identical power profile and pinout, whereas the F2132 trades package compatibility for richer peripherals and memory - guiding selection based on firmware size and interface needs rather than raw compatibility.
Availability
MSP430F1121ACY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, portable medical monitors, and smart utility meters requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and verified TI-authorized traceability.
Supply support for MSP430F1121ACY 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 microcontroller innovation.
The MSP430x1xx family - including MSP430F1121ACY - was designed specifically for ultralow-power sensing and measurement applications where battery life, precision analog integration, and deterministic real-time response are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F1121ACY at 3.6 V?
The MSP430F1121ACY supports a maximum MCLK frequency of 8 MHz at 3.6 V, as specified in the recommended operating conditions table of SLAS241I. This applies when executing code from flash memory and using the internal DCO or external crystal source. Higher frequencies are not guaranteed and may cause timing violations or increased current draw beyond datasheet limits.
Does the MSP430F1121ACY support in-system programming without external hardware?
Yes, the MSP430F1121ACY supports in-system programming via its built-in Bootstrap Loader (BSL), which uses UART communication through P1.1 (TX) and P2.2 (RX). No external programming voltage is needed - only a 3.3 V logic-level UART interface and correct BSL entry sequence (RST/NMI + TEST pin control) are required to program flash memory.
How many I/O pins does the MSP430F1121ACY provide, and are all individually interrupt-capable?
The MSP430F1121ACY provides 14 usable I/O pins: Port 1 has 8 pins (P1.0–P1.7), and Port 2 has 6 exposed pins (P2.0–P2.5). All 14 pins support individually configurable direction, pull-up/down, and edge-selectable interrupts - with full interrupt flag and enable registers for both ports mapped in the peripheral memory space.
What is the role of the TEST pin on the MSP430F1121ACY, and how should it be handled in production?
The TEST pin on the MSP430F1121ACY enables JTAG boundary-scan and flash programming mode. In production, it must be pulled high (typically via 10 kΩ to VCC) during normal operation to prevent accidental entry into test mode. Leaving it floating risks spurious resets or programming failures; tying it low disables JTAG and may prevent debugging or firmware updates.
Can the MSP430F1121ACY operate from a 32.768 kHz crystal alone, without an external high-frequency source?
Yes, the MSP430F1121ACY can run entirely from a 32.768 kHz watch crystal connected to XIN/XOUT. The basic clock module routes ACLK directly from the crystal, and SMCLK/MCLK can be sourced from ACLK or divided versions - enabling full functionality (including CPU execution and Timer_A) at ultra-low power, albeit at reduced throughput versus DCO-based operation.
MSP430F1121ACY Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- -
- Series:
- *
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- -
- Core Size:
- -
- Speed:
- -
- Connectivity:
- -
- Peripherals:
- -
- Number of I/O:
- -
- Program Memory Size:
- -
- Program Memory Type:
- -
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- -
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- -
- Data Converters:
- -
- Oscillator Type:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
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- Grade:
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- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
MSP430F1121ACY FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSP430F1121ACY through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSP430F1121ACY on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MSP430F1121ACY reliable?
The price and inventory of MSP430F1121ACY are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSP430F1121ACY is usually 5 days.
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MSP430F1121ACY orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MSP430F1121ACY order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MSP430F1121ACY?
For technical support, including MSP430F1121ACY datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSP430F1121ACY requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSP430F1121ACY is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSP430F1121ACY products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MSP430F1121ACY meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSP430F1121ACY?
All MSP430F1121ACY units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSP430F1121ACY, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MSP430F1121ACY part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSP430F1121ACY:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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