Texas Instruments MSP430F5338IPZ

Overview

MSP430F5338IPZ from Texas Instruments is a 16-bit ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 256 KB flash, 18 KB RAM, dual 12-bit DACs, a 12-bit 200-ksps ADC with autoscan, four 16-bit timers, two USCI modules (UART/IrDA/SPI/I²C), and an integrated 3.3-V LDO. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and supports real-time clock backup with battery switching-ideal for portable sensor systems and battery-powered thermostats.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F5338IPZ datasheet, MSP430F5338IPZ pinout, MSP430F5338IPZ application, or MSP430F5338IPZ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 74 GPIO count in LQFP-100, LPM3.5 RTC retention at 1.1 µA, dual DAC synchronization capability, and support for both XT1 (32 kHz) and XT2 (up to 32 MHz) crystal oscillators.

Technical Context

The MSP430F5338IPZ implements a CPUXV2 core with constant generators and 16-bit register architecture, enabling high code efficiency in ultra-low-power embedded control. Its unified clock system integrates FLL stabilization, VLO and REFO internal sources, and dual crystal inputs (XT1/XT2), allowing dynamic clock domain management across active and low-power modes.

Power management includes a programmable LDO core regulator, supply voltage supervisor (SVS), brownout reset (BOR), and five low-power modes (LPM0–LPM4.5). Wake-up from LPM3 occurs in 3 µs (typical), and the RTC_B module supports alarm-triggered wake-up with VBAK-supplied backup power.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LQFP-100 package (14 mm × 14 mm), thermally enhanced with exposed thermal pad; 74 general-purpose I/O pins distributed across Ports P1–P9 and PJ, plus dedicated analog, clock, power, and debug signals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F5336IPZ and MSP430F5335IPZ, the MSP430F5338IPZ provides maximum on-chip memory and dual DAC capability in the same LQFP-100 footprint-making it optimal for feature-rich, battery-constrained applications requiring analog output or future firmware scalability.

Availability

MSP430F5338IPZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable sensor systems, digital thermostats, and hand-held meters requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for MSP430F5338IPZ 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 for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The MSP430F5338IPZ belongs to TI's ultra-low-power mixed-signal MCU product line, engineered specifically for extended-battery-life applications in sensing, measurement, and control-where energy efficiency, integration, and reliability are paramount.

FAQ

What is the maximum system clock frequency supported by the MSP430F5338IPZ?

The MSP430F5338IPZ supports a maximum system clock (MCLK) frequency of 20 MHz when derived from the FLL-stabilized DCO, and up to 32 MHz when using the XT2 high-frequency crystal oscillator directly. The device's timing specifications-including ADC sampling rate, timer resolution, and USCI baud rates-are validated up to 25 MHz, ensuring robust operation across its rated frequency range. This allows the MSP430F5338IPZ to balance performance and power consumption based on real-time application demands.

Does the MSP430F5338IPZ include hardware support for IrDA communication?

Yes, the MSP430F5338IPZ includes hardware IrDA encoder and decoder functionality within its USCI_A modules (USCI_A0 and USCI_A1). This enables direct implementation of IrDA physical layer protocols-including pulse shaping, encoding (RZI), and automatic baud-rate detection-without CPU overhead. The MSP430F5338IPZ can achieve compliant IrDA SIR (115.2 kbps) operation using internal clock sources, making it suitable for remote control and data transfer applications.

How many analog input channels does the MSP430F5338IPZ ADC support?

The MSP430F5338IPZ integrates the ADC12_A module with 16 total input channels: 12 external analog inputs (A0–A11) and 4 internal sources (temperature sensor, VCC/2, VeREF+, and AVCC). Channel selection is fully programmable via the ADC12MCTLx registers, and autoscan mode allows sequential conversion of up to 16 channels without CPU intervention-enabling efficient multi-sensor monitoring in the MSP430F5338IPZ.

What is the function of the VBAK pin on the MSP430F5338IPZ?

The VBAK pin on the MSP430F5338IPZ provides a dedicated input for battery backup power to sustain the RTC_B module and 8 B of backup RAM during main supply failure. When DVCC drops below the SVS threshold, the device automatically switches to VBAK-supplied power, preserving timekeeping and critical state data. This ensures uninterrupted RTC operation and fast wake-up from LPM3.5-key for time-sensitive applications using the MSP430F5338IPZ.

Can the MSP430F5338IPZ operate from a single 3.3-V supply without external regulators?

Yes, the MSP430F5338IPZ integrates a fully functional 3.3-V LDO regulator (LDOO/LDOI) that supplies the core logic and digital I/O domains. With only DVCC, AVCC, and DVSS connected to a clean 3.3-V source-and VCORE internally regulated-the MSP430F5338IPZ achieves full functionality without external voltage regulation. This simplifies power design and reduces bill-of-materials cost in space-constrained applications.