Texas Instruments MSP430F233TRGCR

Overview

MSP430F233TRGCR 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 (UART/IrDA/SPI + I²C), 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 MSP430F233TRGCR datasheet, MSP430F233TRGCR pinout, MSP430F233TRGCR application, or MSP430F233TRGCR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin QFN (RGC) package, single USCI interface, reduced Timer_B (3 CC registers), and absence of second USCI and ADC12 reference buffer - distinguishing it from MSP430F24x variants.

Technical Context

The MSP430F233TRGCR implements a 16-bit CPU with constant generators for optimized code efficiency and integrates a calibrated DCO enabling wake-up from standby mode in under 1 µs. Its basic clock system supports internal LF oscillator, 32-kHz crystal (XT1), and optional high-frequency crystal (XT2) up to 16 MHz.

It features a single USCI_A0 module supporting UART with auto-baud detection, IrDA encoding/decoding, and synchronous SPI, plus USCI_B0 for SPI and I²C. Unlike MSP430F24x, it lacks USCI_A1/USCI_B1 and uses only Timer_B with three capture/compare registers and no shadow registers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin QFN (RGC), 9 mm × 9 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (to be connected to DVSS).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F235TRGCR, the MSP430F233TRGCR offers identical architecture and pinout but half the flash/RAM - ideal for cost-sensitive, memory-constrained designs. Against MSP430F247TRGCR, it trades dual-USCI flexibility and expanded memory for lower unit cost and simpler layout verification.

Availability

MSP430F233TRGCR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, portable test equipment, and industrial data loggers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing from authorized channels.

Supply support for MSP430F233TRGCR 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 system integration.

The MSP430F233TRGCR belongs to the MSP430F23x ultra-low-power MCU family, designed specifically for battery-operated measurement and sensing applications where sub-microamp standby current and fast wake-up are critical system requirements.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F233TRGCR?

The MSP430F233TRGCR supports a maximum system clock frequency of 16 MHz using the internal DCO calibrated to ±1% or external crystals. Its 16-bit RISC core executes instructions at 62.5 ns per cycle, enabling deterministic real-time response. The device maintains full functionality across its 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply range at this speed, and the MSP430F233TRGCR datasheet specifies timing parameters for all clock sources including XT1, XT2, and DCO configurations.

Does the MSP430F233TRGCR support JTAG debugging?

Yes, the MSP430F233TRGCR includes full IEEE 1149.1-compliant JTAG circuitry on pins TCK (57), TMS (56), TDI/TCLK (55), and TDO/TDI (54). This enables in-circuit emulation, flash programming, and boundary-scan testing using standard tools like MSP-FET430UIF. The MSP430F233TRGCR does not require external boot ROM or special startup sequences for debug access, and its JTAG interface remains functional across all supply voltages within specification.

How many analog input channels does the MSP430F233TRGCR ADC support?

The MSP430F233TRGCR integrates a 12-bit ADC12 module with eight analog input channels (A0–A7), mapped exclusively to port P6 pins (P6.0 through P6.7). These inputs support single-ended or differential acquisition with internal reference (1.5 V or 2.5 V) or external reference via VeREF+. The MSP430F233TRGCR ADC includes sample-and-hold and autoscan features, allowing fully autonomous multi-channel sequencing without CPU intervention.

What serial communication interfaces are integrated into the MSP430F233TRGCR?

The MSP430F233TRGCR integrates two Universal Serial Communication Interfaces: USCI_A0 (supporting UART, IrDA, and SPI) and USCI_B0 (supporting SPI and I²C). It does not include USCI_A1 or USCI_B1, distinguishing it from higher-tier MSP430F24x devices. Each USCI module has independent clock sources and control registers, enabling concurrent UART and I²C operation - for example, UART for host communication and I²C for sensor reading - all managed by the MSP430F233TRGCR's single-core processor.

Is the MSP430F233TRGCR pin-compatible with other MSP430F2xx devices in the RGC package?

Yes, the MSP430F233TRGCR is pin-compatible with all MSP430F23x and MSP430F24x devices offered in the 64-pin QFN (RGC) package, including MSP430F235TRGCR, MSP430F247TRGCR, and MSP430F249TRGCR. Signal mapping, power/ground pin locations, and JTAG interface positions are identical. However, peripheral enablement differs - for example, MSP430F233TRGCR lacks USCI_A1 and has reduced Timer_B - so firmware and configuration must be validated per device variant despite identical MSP430F233TRGCR pinout.