Texas Instruments MSP430F2481TRGCT

Overview

MSP430F2481TRGCT from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 48KB+256B flash memory, 4KB RAM, a 12-bit ADC (not implemented on F24x1 variants), two 16-bit timers (Timer_A with three capture/compare registers and Timer_B with seven plus shadow registers), four USCI modules (dual UART/IrDA/SPI + dual I²C/SPI), and operation across 1.8 V to 3.6 V. It targets battery-powered sensor nodes and portable instrumentation requiring fast wake-up (<1 µs) and precise analog measurement.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F2481TRGCT datasheet, MSP430F2481TRGCT pinout, MSP430F2481TRGCT application, or MSP430F2481TRGCT equivalent, key selection criteria include its RGC-packaged 64-pin QFN footprint, absence of ADC12 (per F24x1 designation), integrated comparator, programmable SVS, and dual USCI_A/USCI_B support for concurrent serial protocols in space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The MSP430F2481TRGCT implements the MSP430x2xx architecture with a 16-bit RISC CPU, constant generators, and five low-power modes optimized for extended battery life. Its basic clock system includes a calibrated DCO (±1% at 1 MHz, 8/12/16 MHz), internal VLO, and support for external crystals (XT1: 32 kHz watch crystal; XT2: up to 16 MHz).

It integrates two independent universal serial communication interfaces (USCI_A0/A1 and USCI_B0/B1), enabling simultaneous UART/IrDA/SPI and I²C/SPI operation. The device lacks ADC12 functionality per the F24x1 family definition but retains Comparator_A+, Timer_B7 with shadow registers, and full JTAG/EEM debugging capability via TCK/TMS/TDI/TDO pins.

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 MSP430F248TRGCT, the MSP430F2481TRGCT removes ADC12 to reduce cost and power while retaining full timer, USCI, and comparator capability; versus MSP430F2491TRGCT, it trades flash capacity for higher RAM-critical for real-time multi-protocol buffering.

Availability

MSP430F2481TRGCT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart sensor nodes, industrial data loggers, and portable medical meters requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and consistent QFN packaging.

Supply support for MSP430F2481TRGCT 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 reliability, precision, and energy efficiency.

The MSP430™ ultra-low-power microcontroller product line targets battery-operated and energy-constrained applications including sensing, metering, and portable instrumentation through optimized architecture and deep-sleep power management.

FAQ

Does the MSP430F2481TRGCT include an ADC12 module?

No, the MSP430F2481TRGCT does not implement the ADC12 module. As an F24x1-series device, it shares all peripherals with the MSP430F248 except ADC12. Analog functions are supported via Comparator_A+, SVS, and external reference inputs (VREF+/VREF−), making it suitable for threshold-detection and supervisory roles without on-chip digitization.

What is the package type and pin count of the MSP430F2481TRGCT?

The MSP430F2481TRGCT uses a 64-pin QFN package (RGC suffix), measuring 9 mm × 9 mm with 0.5 mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This package is pin-compatible with other MSP430F24x and MSP430F24x1 devices in the RGC variant, enabling layout reuse across family members.

Can the MSP430F2481TRGCT operate without an external crystal?

Yes, the MSP430F2481TRGCT can operate entirely from its internal digitally controlled oscillator (DCO), which is factory-calibrated to ±1% accuracy at 1/8/12/16 MHz. External crystals (XT1 for 32 kHz, XT2 for up to 16 MHz) are optional and used only when higher frequency stability or precision timing is required.

How many USCI modules does the MSP430F2481TRGCT support?

The MSP430F2481TRGCT supports four USCI modules: USCI_A0, USCI_A1, USCI_B0, and USCI_B1. Each provides configurable UART, IrDA, SPI, or I²C functionality, allowing concurrent use-for example, USCI_A0 as UART for host communication and USCI_B0 as I²C for sensor interfacing-without resource conflict.

What debug interface is available on the MSP430F2481TRGCT?

The MSP430F2481TRGCT includes a full JTAG interface (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO on Pins 57, 56, 55, 54) compliant with IEEE 1149.1, supporting real-time emulation, flash programming, and boundary-scan testing. It also supports Spy-Bi-Wire (2-wire JTAG) for space-constrained layouts using TCLK/TDI and TDO pins.