Texas Instruments MSP430F233TPM

Overview

MSP430F233TPM from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC microcontroller featuring 8KB+256B flash memory, 1KB RAM, a 12-bit ADC with 8 channels, two 16-bit timers (Timer_A with three capture/compare registers and Timer_B with three registers), one USCI module (USCI_A0), and on-chip comparator. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and targets battery-powered sensor nodes and portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F233TPM datasheet, MSP430F233TPM pinout, MSP430F233TPM application, or MSP430F233TPM equivalent, key selection considerations include its 64-pin QFP package, single USCI interface, reduced Timer_B implementation (vs. F24x), absence of ADC12 reference buffer output (VREF+), and lack of second USCI (USCI_B0) or USCI_A1.

Technical Context

The MSP430F233TPM implements the MSP430x2xx architecture with five low-power modes, a calibrated DCO enabling sub-1-µs wake-up, and integrated basic clock system supporting internal LF oscillator, 32-kHz crystal (XT1), and optional high-frequency crystal (XT2). Its CPU executes instructions in 62.5 ns at 16 MHz.

It integrates a 12-bit successive-approximation ADC12 with internal reference, sample-and-hold, autoscan, and eight analog input channels (A0–A7), alongside a single 16-bit Timer_A (three CC registers) and a reduced-function 16-bit Timer_B (three CC registers, no shadow registers), distinguishing it from the full Timer_B7 in MSP430F24x devices.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin plastic quad flat pack (QFP, PM package), 10 mm × 10 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, lead-free and RoHS compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F235TPM and MSP430F247TPM, the MSP430F233TPM offers the smallest memory footprint and most constrained peripheral set in the F23x/F24x family - ideal for cost-sensitive, functionally minimal embedded control where flash and RAM headroom are not limiting.

Availability

MSP430F233TPM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, portable instrumentation, industrial data loggers, and smart flow meters requiring stable component supply across extended production cycles.

Supply support for MSP430F233TPM 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 emphasis on energy efficiency and reliability.

The MSP430™ ultra-low-power microcontroller product line targets battery-operated and energy-constrained applications such as sensing, metering, and portable instrumentation - with architecture and peripherals optimized for extended runtime and fast wake-up responsiveness.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F233TPM?

The MSP430F233TPM supports internal DCO frequencies up to 16 MHz, with four factory-calibrated frequencies accurate to ±1%. External crystal oscillators (XT1 and XT2) may be used for higher precision timing, but the core CPU execution rate is limited by the selected MCLK source and does not exceed 16 MHz. This frequency enables real-time signal processing within its ultra-low-power envelope.

Does the MSP430F233TPM include a hardware multiplier?

Yes, the MSP430F233TPM includes a 16-bit hardware multiplier module (MPY, MPYS, MAC, MACS) that executes multiply and multiply-accumulate operations in a single cycle. This accelerates fixed-point math used in sensor compensation, filtering, and control algorithms - reducing active-mode duration and improving overall system energy efficiency compared to software-based multiplication.

How many analog input channels does the ADC12 support on the MSP430F233TPM?

The ADC12 module on the MSP430F233TPM supports eight analog input channels (A0 through A7), accessible via P6.0–P6.7. All eight channels are fully functional and mapped to dedicated pins. The ADC12 also supports internal reference voltages (1.5 V or 2.5 V), sample-and-hold, and autoscan mode - enabling continuous multi-channel acquisition without CPU intervention.

Is the MSP430F233TPM pin-compatible with the MSP430F247TPM?

No, the MSP430F233TPM is not pin-compatible with the MSP430F247TPM. While both use the 64-pin PM package and share identical power, reset, JTAG, and core I/O pin assignments, the F247TPM exposes additional USCI signals (USCI_B0 and USCI_A1) on P3.6, P3.7, P5.0–P5.3, and P4.3–P4.6 - pins designated as general-purpose I/O or unused on the MSP430F233TPM. PCB layout must be redesigned for substitution.

What debug interface does the MSP430F233TPM support?

The MSP430F233TPM supports the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface via TCK, TMS, TDI/TCLK, and TDO/TDI pins (Pins 57, 56, 55, 54). It is compatible with TI's MSP-FET430UIF and MSP-FET430PIF debuggers, as well as the standalone MSP-TS430PM64 target board. The device includes an Embedded Emulation Module (EEM) enabling full-speed execution, breakpoint setting, and register/memory inspection during development.