Texas Instruments MSP430F2121TDGVR

Overview

MSP430F2121TDGVR from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 4KB flash, 256B RAM, a 16-bit Timer_A with three capture/compare registers, on-chip comparator for slope A/D conversion, and support for 1.8–3.6 V operation. It targets battery-powered sensor systems requiring sub-1μs wake-up and precise analog signal conditioning.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F2121TDGVR datasheet, MSP430F2121TDGVR pinout, MSP430F2121TDGVR application, or MSP430F2121TDGVR equivalent, key selection criteria include its -40°C to +105°C extended temperature rating, TVSOP-20 package, integrated comparator_A+ with eight-channel analog input mux, and calibrated DCO supporting 1–16 MHz operation without external crystal.

Technical Context

The MSP430F2121TDGVR implements a 16-bit 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), 32-kHz crystal support, and high-frequency crystal capability up to 16 MHz - all with factory-calibrated frequencies at ±1% accuracy.

It features two 8-bit I/O ports (P1/P2) with individually programmable pullup/down resistors, edge-selectable interrupts, and JTAG-based on-chip emulation. The comparator_A+ module supports analog signal compare, battery-voltage supervision, and slope ADC functionality using internal reference or external inputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin TVSOP (DGV), 4.4 mm × 6.5 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad connected to VSS.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F2121TDGVR, the MSP430F2131TDGVR offers double flash capacity without layout change, while the MSP430F2012IPW reduces cost and power at the expense of memory headroom and industrial temperature support.

Availability

MSP430F2121TDGVR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, industrial temperature monitors, and portable gas detectors requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MSP430F2121TDGVR 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 company founded in 1930, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and digital signal technologies with broad industrial and automotive qualifications.

The MSP430F2121TDGVR belongs to the MSP430x21x1 ultra-low-power MCU family, designed specifically for battery-operated measurement systems demanding precision analog integration, rapid wake-up, and minimal active/standby current.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F2121TDGVR?

The MSP430F2121TDGVR supports a maximum MCLK frequency of 16 MHz when VCC ≥3.3 V and duty cycle is 50% ±10%. This is achieved using the factory-calibrated DCO or an external high-frequency crystal. At lower supply voltages (e.g., 2.2 V), the maximum reliable frequency is 6 MHz per TI's recommended operating conditions.

Does the MSP430F2121TDGVR support crystal oscillator operation?

Yes, the MSP430F2121TDGVR supports both 32-kHz watch crystals (XIN/XOUT pins) and high-frequency crystals up to 16 MHz. The basic clock module allows simultaneous use of LFXT1 (low-frequency) and HFXT1 (high-frequency) oscillators, with automatic fail-safe switching to DCO if crystal startup fails.

How is flash memory programmed on the MSP430F2121TDGVR?

Flash memory on the MSP430F2121TDGVR can be programmed via three methods: JTAG interface using tools like MSP-FET430UIF, UART-based bootstrap loader (BSL) using P1.1/P2.2 pins, or in-system by the CPU itself. All methods require minimum VCC = 2.2 V during programming, and segment-level erase is supported for main and information memory.

What is the function of the TEST pin on the MSP430F2121TDGVR?

The TEST pin on the MSP430F2121TDGVR enables JTAG test mode during device power-up. When pulled high at reset, it activates boundary-scan logic and connects the JTAG TDI/TDO/TCK/TMS signals to Port 1 pins. It also connects to the JTAG fuse; applying VFB voltage here permanently disables JTAG access for security.

Can the MSP430F2121TDGVR perform analog-to-digital conversion without an external ADC?

Yes, the MSP430F2121TDGVR uses its integrated comparator_A+ module to implement slope-type analog-to-digital conversion. By charging a capacitor with a known current and measuring time-to-compare against input voltage, it achieves effective ADC resolution without dedicated SAR or delta-sigma hardware - ideal for low-cost, low-speed sensor digitization.