Texas Instruments MSP430F2121IPW
- Part No.:
- MSP430F2121IPW
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MSP430F2121IPW.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 4KB FLASH 20TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:326
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Product details
Overview
MSP430F2121IPW from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 4 KB flash memory, 256 B RAM, a 16-bit Timer_A with three capture/compare registers, and an on-chip analog comparator for slope A/D conversion - deployed in battery-powered sensor nodes and portable measurement systems.
For engineers reviewing the MSP430F2121IPW datasheet, MSP430F2121IPW pinout, MSP430F2121IPW application, or MSP430F2121IPW equivalent, key selection criteria include active-mode current at 1 MHz (250 μA @ 2.2 V), standby-mode current (0.7 μA), brownout detection, JTAG-based on-chip emulation, and TSSOP-20 package compatibility with legacy MSP430F21x1 designs.
Technical Context
The MSP430F2121IPW implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with constant generators and seven addressing modes, enabling single-cycle register operations and high code efficiency. Its basic clock module integrates a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) calibrated to ±1% at 1/8/12/16 MHz, plus support for 32-kHz crystal and external digital clock sources.
Power management includes five software-selectable low-power modes (LPM0–LPM4), with wake-up from standby in under 1 μs. The analog comparator supports battery voltage supervision and slope ADC, while Timer_A3 delivers PWM, interval timing, and synchronized capture/compare across three registers.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | 16-bit RISC CPU with 16 general-purpose registers and 62.5-ns instruction cycle time |
| Memory | 4 KB + 256 B flash (main + info segments), 256 B RAM - supports in-system programming via JTAG or UART BSL |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - enables direct operation from single-cell Li-ion or two-cell alkaline batteries |
| Active Current | 250 μA at 1 MHz, 2.2 V - defines baseline power budget for continuous sensor sampling at 1 kHz |
| Standby Current | 0.7 μA - sustains real-time clock and interrupt-wait states for multi-year battery life in metering applications |
| Off Mode (RAM Retention) | 0.1 μA - preserves context during deep sleep while allowing sub-μs wake-up via I/O or timer events |
| Comparator | On-chip Comparator_A+ with eight selectable inputs (CA0–CA7) - enables hardware-accelerated slope ADC without external components |
Pinout & Package
Package: 20-pin TSSOP (PW), body width 4.4 mm, pitch 0.65 mm, JEDEC MO-153 compliant. Thermal pad not present - standard plastic TSSOP construction.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P1.0/TACLK | Timer_A clock input / GPIO | Accepts external timing source for synchronous capture or event counting |
| P1.1/TA0/TDI/TCLK | Timer_A compare output / JTAG test interface | Dual-use pin supports both PWM generation and boundary-scan programming |
| P1.4/SMCLK/TCK | Sub-main clock output / JTAG test clock | Provides system-peripheral clock signal or synchronizes JTAG debug sessions |
| P2.0/ACLK/CA2 | ACLK output / comparator input | Drives 32-kHz watch crystal circuit or feeds analog reference to comparator channel CA2 |
| XIN/P2.6/CA6 | Crystal oscillator input / comparator input | Connects to low-frequency crystal while sharing analog input capability for sensor biasing |
| RST/NMI | Reset or non-maskable interrupt input | Hardware reset initiation or high-priority fault handling (e.g., oscillator failure) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-low-power operation | 0.1 μA off-mode current with full RAM retention enables >10-year battery life in sealed environmental sensors |
| Digital-controlled oscillator (DCO) | Four factory-calibrated frequencies (1/8/12/16 MHz) allow precise clock tuning without external crystal in cost-sensitive designs |
| On-chip emulation module (EEM) | Enables full-speed debugging, breakpoint setting, and flash programming via MSP-FET430U28 or MSP-FET430UIF tools |
| Bootstrap loader (BSL) | UART-based firmware update over P1.1/P2.2 pins eliminates need for JTAG hardware in field-deployed units |
| Brownout detector | Monitors VCC and triggers reset before flash corruption or logic instability occurs below 1.8 V |
Applications
| Wireless Sensor Node | Portable Medical Monitor |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered temperature/humidity node transmitting data via sub-GHz RF transceiver. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main controller executing sensor acquisition, slope ADC via comparator, and low-duty-cycle RF burst transmission. Use Value: 0.7 μA standby current extends CR2032 battery life to 5+ years; 1 μs wake-up ensures timely response to sensor interrupts. |
Use Scenario: Handheld pulse oximeter performing analog front-end signal conditioning and LED drive control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mixed-signal processor managing photodiode amplification, comparator-based ADC, and synchronized LED pulsing via Timer_A PWM. Use Value: Integrated comparator eliminates external op-amp; 4 KB flash accommodates calibration algorithms and BLE stack overlay. |
| Smart Utility Meter | Industrial Data Logger |
|
Use Scenario: Tamper-resistant electricity meter logging consumption data with real-time clock and EEPROM backup. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System-on-chip handling metrology calculations, RTC maintenance, secure flash storage, and optical/IR communication. Use Value: Brownout detection prevents corrupted EEPROM writes; LPM3 mode (0.9 μA @ 25°C) sustains RTC during mains dropout. |
Use Scenario: Ruggedized environmental logger recording temperature, pressure, and humidity at 10-minute intervals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Autonomous data acquisition unit using Timer_A interrupts to trigger sensor reads and store results in flash. Use Value: 256 B RAM buffers 32+ samples before flash commit; 4 KB flash stores firmware + 7-day compressed log history. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSP430F2131IPW | 8 KB flash, 256 B RAM - double program memory with identical peripherals and pinout | Suitable for applications requiring larger firmware (e.g., integrated wireless protocol stacks) | Select when future firmware expansion or dual-application partitioning is anticipated |
| MSP430G2553IPW28 | 16 KB flash, 512 B RAM, enhanced USCI module - newer generation with improved UART/SPI/I²C support | Requires PCB redesign (28-pin TSSOP); lacks factory DCO calibration at 12/16 MHz | Choose for new designs needing richer serial connectivity and higher memory headroom |
Compared with MSP430F2121IPW, the MSP430F2131IPW offers scalable code space without layout change, while the MSP430G2553IPW28 provides modern peripheral features at the cost of pin compatibility and increased board complexity.
Availability
MSP430F2121IPW is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, portable medical monitors, and smart utility meters requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (–40°C to 85°C).
Supply support for MSP430F2121IPW 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 focused on analog and embedded processing technologies, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets with energy-efficient solutions.
The MSP430F2121IPW belongs to the MSP430x21x1 ultra-low-power microcontroller family, designed specifically for battery-operated measurement and sensing applications where nanowatt-level power management and integrated analog functionality are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F2121IPW?
The MSP430F2121IPW supports a maximum MCLK frequency of 16 MHz when VCC ≥3.3 V, with factory-calibrated DCO settings at 1/8/12/16 MHz. At 2.7 V, the guaranteed maximum is 12 MHz, and at 1.8 V it is limited to 6 MHz per the recommended operating conditions table in SLAS439F. This frequency governs CPU execution speed, Timer_A timing resolution, and peripheral clock rates.
Does the MSP430F2121IPW support in-system programming without a JTAG debugger?
Yes, the MSP430F2121IPW includes a UART-based bootstrap loader (BSL) accessible via P1.1 (TXD) and P2.2 (RXD). With the correct password, firmware updates can be performed in-system using only a simple level-shifter and host PC - no JTAG interface required. The BSL resides in ROM and remains functional even if main flash is erased or locked.
What are the key differences between the MSP430F2121IPW and MSP430F2131IPW?
The MSP430F2121IPW contains 4 KB flash and 256 B RAM, while the MSP430F2131IPW doubles flash capacity to 8 KB with identical RAM, peripherals, pinout, and electrical specifications. Both share the same TSSOP-20 package and operate across –40°C to 85°C. The MSP430F2131IPW is a direct drop-in upgrade for designs needing more firmware space.
Can the analog comparator in the MSP430F2121IPW perform true analog-to-digital conversion?
Yes - the MSP430F2121IPW's Comparator_A+ module supports slope analog-to-digital conversion by charging a capacitor through a current source and measuring time-to-compare against a reference voltage. This technique achieves effective 10–12 bit resolution without dedicated ADC hardware, reducing BOM cost and PCB area in sensor front-end designs.
Is the MSP430F2121IPW compatible with the MSP-TS430PW28 target board?
Yes, the MSP430F2121IPW uses the TSSOP-20 (PW) package and is fully supported by the MSP-TS430PW28 target board. This board provides socketed mounting, onboard JTAG emulation via MSP-FET430UIF, and breakout headers for all 20 pins - enabling rapid prototyping, debugging, and flash programming of the MSP430F2121IPW in development environments.
MSP430F2121IPW Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Series:
- MSP430F2xx
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Core Processor:
- MSP430 CPU16
- Core Size:
- 16-Bit
- Speed:
- 16MHz
- Connectivity:
- -
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 16
- Program Memory Size:
- 4KB (4K x 8 + 256B)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 256 x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- Slope A/D
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MSP430F2121IPW FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSP430F2121IPW through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSP430F2121IPW 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 MSP430F2121IPW reliable?
The price and inventory of MSP430F2121IPW are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSP430F2121IPW is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MSP430F2121IPW?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MSP430F2121IPW transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for MSP430F2121IPW?
MSP430F2121IPW orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MSP430F2121IPW 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 MSP430F2121IPW?
For technical support, including MSP430F2121IPW datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSP430F2121IPW requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSP430F2121IPW is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSP430F2121IPW 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 MSP430F2121IPW meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSP430F2121IPW?
All MSP430F2121IPW units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSP430F2121IPW, 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 MSP430F2121IPW part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSP430F2121IPW:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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