Texas Instruments MSP430F4250IDL

Overview

MSP430F4250IDL from Texas Instruments is an ultralow-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 16 KB Flash, 256 B RAM, a 16-bit sigma-delta ADC with internal reference and five differential analog inputs, a 12-bit DAC, Timer_A3 with three capture/compare registers, and integrated LCD driver supporting up to 56 segments - deployed in battery-powered sensor meters and portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F4250IDL datasheet, MSP430F4250IDL pinout, MSP430F4250IDL application, or MSP430F4250IDL equivalent, key selection criteria include active-mode current (250 μA @ 1 MHz, 2.2 V), standby current (1.1 μA), wake-up time (<6 μs), 48-pin SSOP package, and integrated LCD voltage regulation for contrast control.

Technical Context

The MSP430F4250IDL implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with constant generators and seven addressing modes, enabling single-cycle register operations. Its FLL+ clock system supports ACLK (32.768 kHz crystal or high-frequency source), MCLK (up to 8 MHz at 3.6 V), and SMCLK, with DCO stabilization in under 6 μs.

Peripherals are memory-mapped and accessible via all instructions: SD16_A provides 16-bit sigma-delta conversion with internal temperature sensor and VCC sense; DAC12 delivers 12-bit voltage output; LCD_A drives static/2–4-MUX displays using regulated charge pump and software-controllable contrast; and Timer_A3 supports PWM, capture, and interval timing with interrupt-capable CCR0–CCR2.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin plastic SSOP (DL), 0.635 mm pitch, body size 10.2 × 5.3 mm, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F4260IDL and MSP430F4270IDL, the MSP430F4250IDL offers optimal balance of Flash size (16 KB), power efficiency, and integration for cost-sensitive, single-function metering devices - avoiding over-provisioned memory while retaining all core analog and display capabilities.

Availability

MSP430F4250IDL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hand-held meters, smart thermostats, digital timers, and remote sensor nodes requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle industrial programs.

Supply support for MSP430F4250IDL 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 MSP430F4250IDL belongs to the MSP430F42x0 family - designed specifically for ultralow-power, battery-operated measurement and display applications requiring integrated analog peripherals and LCD control.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430F4250IDL at 3.6 V?

The MSP430F4250IDL supports a maximum system clock (MCLK) frequency of 8 MHz when operated at 3.6 V, as specified in the recommended operating conditions. This frequency is achieved using the FLL+ module locked to an external crystal or internal DCO. At lower voltages such as 1.8 V, the maximum MCLK is derated to 4.15 MHz to ensure timing compliance and stability across process/voltage/temperature corners.

Does the MSP430F4250IDL support JTAG debugging and in-circuit programming?

Yes, the MSP430F4250IDL supports full JTAG debugging and flash programming via dedicated pins TCK (pin 4), TMS (pin 3), TDI/TCLK (pin 2), and TDO/TDI (pin 1) in the DL package. These pins implement IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan and enable secure device programming, emulation, and real-time trace. The JTAG fuse can be blown via TDI/TCLK to disable further access.

How many LCD segments can the MSP430F4250IDL drive, and what multiplexing configurations are supported?

The MSP430F4250IDL's LCD_A peripheral drives up to 56 segments using static, 2-MUX, 3-MUX, or 4-MUX configurations. It provides four common outputs (COM0–COM3) and 32 segment outputs (S0–S4, S5, S6–S13, plus P2.x and P6.x pins configured as segments), enabling flexible display layouts such as 4-digit numeric + status icons. Contrast is software-adjustable via internal charge pump voltage control registers.

What analog input channels does the SD16_A module on the MSP430F4250IDL support?

The SD16_A module on the MSP430F4250IDL supports five differential analog input channels: A0+ / A0−, A1+ / A1−, A2+ / A2−, A3+ / A3−, and A4+ / A4− - mapped to P6.0–P6.3, P1.7/P1.6, P1.5/P1.4, P1.3/P1.2 respectively. It also includes internal VCC sense and temperature sensor channels, all usable simultaneously with programmable gain and conversion timing.

Is the MSP430F4250IDL pin-compatible with other members of the MSP430F42x0 family in the DL package?

Yes, the MSP430F4250IDL is fully pin-compatible with the MSP430F4260IDL and MSP430F4270IDL in the 48-pin SSOP (DL) package. All share identical pin functions, electrical characteristics, and peripheral mappings - allowing direct hardware substitution and firmware reuse across Flash size variants without PCB changes.