Texas Instruments MSP430F5501IRGZT

Overview

MSP430F5501IRGZT from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller with integrated USB 2.0 PHY, 16 KB flash, 4 KB + 2 KB RAM, comparator (no ADC), four 16-bit timers, two USCI modules (UART/IrDA/SPI/I²C), RTC, and hardware multiplier-designed for battery-powered sensor systems and USB-connected data loggers.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430F5501IRGZT datasheet, MSP430F5501IRGZT pinout, MSP430F5501IRGZT application, or MSP430F5501IRGZT equivalent, key selection criteria include USB 2.0 full-speed support, 31 I/O pins in 48-pin VQFN, LPM4.5 shutdown current of 0.18 µA, comparator-based analog sensing, and compatibility with TI's MSP430F5xx toolchain and development ecosystem.

Technical Context

The MSP430F5501IRGZT implements a unified clock system with FLL stabilization, dual crystal oscillators (XT1 for 32 kHz, XT2 up to 32 MHz), VLO and REFO internal sources, and programmable LDO core regulation. Its power architecture supports six low-power modes (LPM0–LPM4.5) with sub-µA retention and <5 µs wake-up from standby.

Peripherals are mapped via port mapping controller on P4, enabling flexible USCI signal routing; USB functionality uses dedicated DP/DM pins with integrated 3.3-V/1.8-V power system and USB-PLL. The device lacks ADC10_A but includes COMP_B with four channels and window comparator capability.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

VQFN-48 (RGZ) package, 7 mm × 7 mm, 0.5-mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (recommended connection to DVSS).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430F5502IRGZT and MSP430F5504IRGZT, the MSP430F5501IRGZT offers optimal balance of USB-enabled ultra-low-power operation and comparator-based analog monitoring in space-constrained 48-pin VQFN, with lowest BOM count for threshold-triggered USB peripherals.

Availability

MSP430F5501IRGZT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB-connected sensor nodes, industrial data loggers, and low-power test fixtures requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MSP430F5501IRGZT 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 and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The MSP430F5xx family targets ultra-low-power portable measurement systems, emphasizing extended battery life, integrated USB connectivity, and precision analog front-end capabilities for sensor-centric designs.

FAQ

What is the maximum system clock frequency supported by the MSP430F5501IRGZT?

The MSP430F5501IRGZT supports a maximum system clock frequency of 25 MHz, achieved via its digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) stabilized by the FLL loop using internal or external reference sources-including XT2 crystals up to 32 MHz. This enables high-throughput USB packet handling and real-time sensor processing while maintaining ultra-low active-mode current of 195 µA/MHz at 3 V.

Does the MSP430F5501IRGZT include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC)?

No, the MSP430F5501IRGZT does not include ADC10_A. Per TI's device comparison table and functional block diagrams, this variant replaces the 10-bit ADC found in MSP430F5504–F5508 with COMP_B-a four-channel analog comparator featuring window comparator mode. Designers requiring digitized analog inputs should select MSP430F5504IRGZT or higher variants.

How many USB endpoints does the MSP430F5501IRGZT support?

The MSP430F5501IRGZT supports eight input endpoints and eight output endpoints for full-speed USB 2.0 communication. These endpoints are managed by the integrated USB module and can be configured for control, interrupt, bulk, or isochronous transfers-enabling implementation of custom USB device classes without external USB controller ICs.

What package type and pin count does the MSP430F5501IRGZT use?

The MSP430F5501IRGZT uses a 48-pin VQFN package (RGZ suffix), measuring 7 mm × 7 mm with 0.5-mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This package provides 31 general-purpose I/O pins plus dedicated USB, power, debug, and oscillator connections-optimized for compact, thermally efficient PCB layouts in space-constrained applications.

Can the MSP430F5501IRGZT operate from USB bus power alone?

Yes, the MSP430F5501IRGZT can operate directly from USB bus power (VBUS = 4.4–5.25 V) using its integrated USB power system, which generates regulated 3.3-V and 1.8-V supplies internally. No external LDOs are required for USB operation, simplifying power design and reducing bill-of-materials cost in bus-powered devices.