Texas Instruments MSP430F2131TPW

Overview

MSP430F2131TPW from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC microcontroller featuring 8 KB flash memory, 256 B RAM, integrated Comparator_A+, Timer_A3 with three capture/compare registers, and a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) calibrated up to 16 MHz. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and supports slope A/D conversion in battery-powered sensor nodes.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F2131TPW datasheet, MSP430F2131TPW pinout, MSP430F2131TPW application, or MSP430F2131TPW equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin TSSOP package, LPM4 current of 0.1 μA at 3 V, 16-bit timer resolution, and on-chip comparator for analog signal conditioning without external ADC.

Technical Context

The MSP430F2131TPW 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 DCO, LFXT1 (32-kHz crystal), and HFXT1 (up to 16-MHz crystal) sources, with four factory-calibrated DCO frequencies (1/8/12/16 MHz) accurate to ±1%.

Timer_A3 provides three independent capture/compare registers supporting PWM generation, input capture, and interval timing, while Comparator_A+ enables slope-based A/D conversion using internal reference or external inputs across eight selectable channels (CA0–CA7).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin TSSOP (PW), body size 6.5 mm × 4.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch, thermal pad not present (unlike QFN variant).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F2121TPW, the MSP430F2131TPW offers double flash capacity for complex algorithms or field-upgradable firmware; versus MSP430G2553IPW28, it retains identical pin compatibility and lower active current but lacks hardware serial interfaces - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, analog-centric, pin-limited designs.

Availability

MSP430F2131TPW is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, battery-powered data loggers, and portable medical sensors requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MSP430F2131TPW 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 90 years of innovation in low-power design.

The MSP430F2131TPW belongs to the MSP430x21x1 ultra-low-power mixed-signal MCU family, engineered specifically for energy-harvesting and battery-operated measurement applications where nanowatt-level standby power and analog integration are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F2131TPW?

The MSP430F2131TPW supports a maximum MCLK frequency of 16 MHz when VCC ≥ 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 6 MHz - all specified under recommended operating conditions with 50% duty cycle. This scaling ensures reliable operation across its full 1.8–3.6 V supply range.

Does the MSP430F2131TPW include hardware UART or SPI peripherals?

No, the MSP430F2131TPW does not integrate hardware UART, SPI, or I²C modules. Communication must be implemented via software bit-banging using GPIO pins or through its Timer_A3 and Comparator_A+ for custom protocols. For hardware serial interfaces, consider later-generation MSP430 devices such as the MSP430G2553IPW28.

How much current does the MSP430F2131TPW consume in active mode at 1 MHz?

At 1 MHz MCLK, 2.2 V supply, and 25°C, the MSP430F2131TPW draws 250 μA typical active-mode current when executing code from flash memory. This value rises to 350 μA at 3 V, reflecting its ultra-low-power design optimized for extended battery life in intermittent-operation systems.

Can the MSP430F2131TPW perform analog-to-digital conversion without an external ADC?

Yes, the MSP430F2131TPW uses its integrated Comparator_A+ module to implement slope-based analog-to-digital conversion. By charging a capacitor with a known current and measuring the time required to reach a reference voltage, it achieves effective A/D resolution - eliminating the need for external ADC components in many sensor applications.

What development tools are supported for the MSP430F2131TPW?

The MSP430F2131TPW is supported by the MSP-FET430U28 debugger/programmer (designed for PW-package targets) and the MSP-TS430PW28 target socket board. It also works with the MSP-FET430UIF USB interface and TI's Code Composer Studio IDE, leveraging its on-chip Emulation Module for full-speed debugging and flash programming.