Texas Instruments MSP430F415IPM

Overview

MSP430F415IPM from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC microcontroller with 16KB Flash, 512B RAM, integrated 96-segment LCD driver, Timer_A5 (5 capture/compare registers), comparator, and FLL+ clock system. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and supports five power-saving modes - including LPM4 with 0.1 μA off-mode current - making it suitable for battery-powered handheld meters and industrial sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F415IPM datasheet, MSP430F415IPM pinout, MSP430F415IPM application, or MSP430F415IPM equivalent, key selection criteria include its 64-pin QFP package, SVS programmable level detection, dual 16-bit timers (Timer0_A3 and Timer1_A5), LCD segment mapping, and JTAG/BSL programming support without external voltage.

Technical Context

The MSP430F415IPM implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with 125-ns instruction cycle time, constant generators, and seven addressing modes for high code efficiency. Its FLL+ module locks the DCO to multiples of ACLK (e.g., 32.768 kHz crystal) and enables wake-up from standby in under 6 μs.

It integrates two independent 16-bit timers: Timer0_A3 (3 capture/compare registers) and Timer1_A5 (5 capture/compare registers), supporting complex PWM, input capture, and interval timing. The device includes dedicated analog supply rails (AVCC/AVSS1/AVSS2), programmable brownout/SVS detection, and automatic LCD segment activation via module control bits - not port-select registers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 64-pin plastic quad flat pack (QFP), lead pitch 0.5 mm, body size 10 mm × 10 mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F413IPM, the MSP430F415IPM adds Timer1_A5 and doubles Flash/RAM - enabling richer firmware and dual-timer concurrency. Against MSP430F417IPM, it trades memory headroom for lower unit cost while retaining identical peripheral functionality and pin compatibility.

Availability

MSP430F415IPM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for handheld meters, industrial panel displays, portable gas detectors, and smart water meters requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle embedded programs.

Supply support for MSP430F415IPM 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 MSP430x41x product line targets ultra-low-power portable measurement systems - integrating precision analog, timing, display, and flash-based control in a single chip to minimize system-level power and component count.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F415IPM?

The MSP430F415IPM does not specify a maximum system clock frequency in absolute MHz; instead, its FLL+ module stabilizes the DCO to programmable multiples of ACLK (e.g., 32.768 kHz). Typical MCLK operation reaches up to 8 MHz per functional block diagram and characterization data. The CPU executes instructions at 125-ns cycle time, corresponding to 8 MHz operation under nominal conditions. Actual achievable frequency depends on supply voltage and temperature - for example, 8 MHz is supported at 2.2 V and 25°C.

Does the MSP430F415IPM support JTAG debugging and in-circuit programming?

Yes, the MSP430F415IPM supports full JTAG debugging and programming via dedicated pins: TCK (pin 57), TMS (pin 56), TDI/TCLK (pin 55), and TDO/TDI (pin 54). These enable boundary-scan testing, real-time emulation, flash programming, and secure fuse configuration. TI's MSP-FET tool and compatible third-party debuggers fully support this interface without requiring external voltage translation.

How many LCD segments can the MSP430F415IPM drive, and what is the backplane configuration?

The MSP430F415IPM drives up to 96 LCD segments using four common backplanes (COM0–COM3), as confirmed in the functional block diagram and terminal functions table. Segment outputs are mapped across P2.x, P3.x, P4.x, P5.x, and P2.6/CAOUT, with automatic activation controlled by LCD module registers - not PxSEL bits. This configuration supports 4×24 or 3×32 multiplexed displays typical in handheld instrumentation.

What are the key differences between the MSP430F415IPM and MSP430F417IPM?

The MSP430F415IPM and MSP430F417IPM share identical peripherals, pinout, package, and electrical specifications. The primary difference is memory: MSP430F415IPM has 16KB Flash + 256B info memory + 512B RAM, while MSP430F417IPM provides 32KB Flash + 256B info memory + 1KB RAM. Both include Timer0_A3 and Timer1_A5, SVS, comparator_A, and 96-segment LCD support - making them pin-compatible drop-in upgrades where additional firmware space is required.

Can the MSP430F415IPM operate from a single 2.0 V supply, and what are the implications for analog performance?

Yes, the MSP430F415IPM operates across 1.8 V to 3.6 V, so 2.0 V is within specification. At 2.0 V, active-mode current remains ~200 μA at 1 MHz, and LPM4 current stays at 0.1 μA. Analog performance - including comparator_A propagation delay and SVS accuracy - is characterized down to 1.8 V per datasheet Section 5.1. However, LCD contrast may require adjustment of internal bias resistor settings (R03–R33) to maintain readability at lower VCC.