Texas Instruments MSP430F1481IRTDT

Overview

MSP430F1481IRTDT from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 48KB flash, 2KB RAM, a 12-bit ADC with 8 channels, dual USARTs (UART/SPI), two 16-bit timers (Timer_A3 and Timer_B7), and hardware multiplier - designed for battery-powered sensor systems and portable instrumentation requiring sub-µA standby current and <6 µs wake-up.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F1481IRTDT datasheet, MSP430F1481IRTDT pinout, MSP430F1481IRTDT application, or MSP430F1481IRTDT equivalent, key selection criteria include its VQFN-64 package, dual USART support, 12-bit ADC conversion time under 10 µs, DCO-based clock system with ROSC tuning, and compatibility with TI's MSP430x1xx toolchain and development ecosystem.

Technical Context

The MSP430F1481IRTDT implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with constant generators and 16-bit registers for high code efficiency. Its clock system integrates three oscillators - DCO (digitally controlled), LFXT1 (low-frequency crystal), and XT2 (high-frequency crystal) - enabling flexible low-power mode management and fast active-mode transitions.

Peripherals include a 12-bit ADC12 with internal reference and autoscan, two independent 16-bit timers supporting capture/compare/PWM, on-chip comparator, JTAG debugging interface, and serial communication via USART0 and USART1 - all operating across five power-saving modes with verified sub-µA retention current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

VQFN-64 (RTD) package, 9 mm × 9 mm body, exposed thermal pad connected to DVSS.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.

Compared with MSP430F149IRTDT, the MSP430F1481IRTDT offers optimized cost/performance for mid-size firmware while retaining identical peripheral set and ultra-low-power behavior; versus MSP430F148IPM, it delivers identical functionality in a smaller, thermally enhanced VQFN package ideal for space-constrained portable designs.

Availability

MSP430F1481IRTDT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial sensor nodes, handheld testers, and low-power data loggers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MSP430F1481IRTDT 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 delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions with focus on energy efficiency, reliability, and system integration.

The MSP430F1481IRTDT belongs to the MSP430F14x1 family - engineered specifically for ultra-low-power sensing, measurement, and portable instrumentation applications where battery life, precision analog integration, and rapid wake-up response are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F1481IRTDT?

The MSP430F1481IRTDT does not have a fixed maximum clock frequency rating; instead, its DCO can be configured up to approximately 8 MHz depending on supply voltage and temperature. When using the XT2 oscillator with an external crystal, the MSP430F1481IRTDT supports up to 8 MHz for MCLK/SMCLK. All timing specifications in the datasheet - including ADC conversion and timer resolution - are validated across the 1.8–3.6 V supply range and –40°C to 85°C ambient.

Does the MSP430F1481IRTDT support in-system programming without external voltage?

Yes, the MSP430F1481IRTDT supports serial onboard programming via its built-in bootloader (BSL) using only the standard supply voltage (1.8–3.6 V). No external programming voltage is required. Programming is performed through UART or SPI using the existing USART interfaces, and the security fuse can be programmed to prevent unauthorized access to flash contents after deployment.

How many analog input channels does the MSP430F1481IRTDT ADC support?

The MSP430F1481IRTDT integrates the ADC12 module with 8 analog input channels (A0–A7), accessible via P6.0 through P6.7. These inputs support single-ended or differential sampling, selectable reference sources (internal 2.5 V or external), and hardware autoscan mode - enabling fully autonomous multi-channel acquisition without CPU intervention.

What is the purpose of the ROSC pin on the MSP430F1481IRTDT?

The ROSC pin (P2.5) on the MSP430F1481IRTDT connects to an external resistor that sets the nominal frequency of the digitally controlled oscillator (DCO). This resistor tunes the DCO's base frequency, allowing precise calibration of the internal clock source across voltage and temperature variations - essential for maintaining accurate timing in battery-operated applications where crystal load is impractical.

Can the MSP430F1481IRTDT operate from a single 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the MSP430F1481IRTDT operates over a supply range of 1.8 V to 3.6 V, making 3.3 V a fully supported and commonly used nominal supply voltage. At 3.3 V, the device delivers optimal drive strength for I/O pins, fastest DCO settling, and highest ADC accuracy. All specifications - including current consumption, timing, and peripheral performance - are guaranteed across this full range per the SLAS272H datasheet.