Texas Instruments MSP430F2131IDGVR

Overview

MSP430F2131IDGVR from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 8 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. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and supports active-mode current of 250 μA at 1 MHz/2.2 V - optimized for battery-powered sensor nodes and portable measurement systems.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F2131IDGVR datasheet, MSP430F2131IDGVR pinout, MSP430F2131IDGVR application, or MSP430F2131IDGVR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin TVSOP (DGV) package, calibrated DCO supporting up to 16 MHz, brownout detection, JTAG-based on-chip emulation, and integrated comparator for low-power analog signal acquisition without external ADC.

Technical Context

The MSP430F2131IDGVR 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), 32-kHz crystal support, and high-frequency crystal input up to 16 MHz - all configurable via BCSCTL registers.

Low-power operation is enforced through six software-selectable modes (AM, LPM0–LPM4), with wake-up from standby in under 1 μs. The analog comparator provides CAOUT output and eight selectable inputs (CA0–CA7), directly supporting slope-based A/D conversion and battery-voltage supervision without external components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin TVSOP (DGV), 4.4 mm × 6.5 mm, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (to be 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 MSP430F2121IDGVR, the MSP430F2131IDGVR provides double flash capacity for feature-rich firmware while retaining identical low-power behavior and analog subsystem; versus MSP430G2553IPW20, it offers guaranteed DCO accuracy and lower active current at 1 MHz, but lacks hardware serial interfaces.

Availability

MSP430F2131IDGVR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, battery-powered data loggers, and smart meter tamper detection systems requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (–40°C to 85°C).

Supply support for MSP430F2131IDGVR 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 over 50 years of innovation in low-power design.

The MSP430F2131IDGVR belongs to the MSP430x21x1 ultra-low-power microcontroller family, engineered specifically for portable measurement and battery-operated sensor applications where nanowatt-level sleep current and rapid wake-up are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F2131IDGVR?

The MSP430F2131IDGVR supports a maximum system clock (MCLK) frequency of 16 MHz when powered at ≥3.3 V, enabled by its factory-calibrated DCO. At 2.7 V, the maximum is 12 MHz, and at 1.8 V, it is limited to 6 MHz per TI's recommended operating conditions. This frequency scaling ensures stable operation across the full 1.8–3.6 V supply range while maintaining ultra-low power consumption in the MSP430F2131IDGVR.

Does the MSP430F2131IDGVR support JTAG debugging?

Yes, the MSP430F2131IDGVR includes a full-featured Embedded Emulation Module (EEM) accessible via the standard 4-wire JTAG interface using pins P1.6 (TDI/TCLK), P1.7 (TDO/TDI), P2.0 (TMS), and TEST. Debugging tools such as the MSP-FET430UIF and MSP-FET430PIF are fully compatible, enabling breakpoints, real-time register inspection, and flash programming - all integral to the MSP430F2131IDGVR development workflow.

How does the analog comparator in the MSP430F2131IDGVR enable slope A/D conversion?

The MSP430F2131IDGVR's Comparator_A+ module uses an internal reference (e.g., VCC/2 or external voltage) and a ramp generator (via Timer_A) to drive the CA+ input while sampling the analog signal on CA–. When the comparator output (CAOUT) toggles, Timer_A captures the elapsed time - directly proportional to input voltage. This eliminates external ADC components and is explicitly supported in the MSP430F2131IDGVR's hardware architecture.

What package type is used for the MSP430F2131IDGVR?

The MSP430F2131IDGVR is packaged in a 20-pin Thin Shrink Small-Outline Package (TVSOP), designated as DGV. It measures 4.4 mm × 6.5 mm with 0.65 mm lead pitch and includes an exposed thermal pad that must be soldered to VSS for optimal thermal performance and electrical stability - a mechanical and thermal specification confirmed in the official MSP430F2131IDGVR datasheet (SLAS439F).

Can the MSP430F2131IDGVR operate without an external crystal?

Yes, the MSP430F2131IDGVR can operate entirely from its internal digitally controlled oscillator (DCO), which is factory-calibrated at four frequencies (1/8/12/16 MHz) stored in flash info memory. This allows full functionality - including Timer_A, comparator, and BSL - without any external crystal or resonator, reducing BOM cost and PCB area while maintaining <±1% frequency accuracy at 1 MHz - a core capability of the MSP430F2131IDGVR.