Texas Instruments MSP430F6438IZQWR
- Part No.:
- MSP430F6438IZQWR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 113-VFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
MSP430F6438IZQWR.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 256KB FLASH 113BGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MSP430F6438IZQWR from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC microcontroller with integrated 3.3-V LDO, 256 KB flash, 18 KB RAM, 12-bit ADC (200 ksps, 16 channels), dual 12-bit DACs, LCD driver (160 segments), RTC, four 16-bit timers, two USCIs (UART/IrDA/SPI/I²C), and 74 GPIO pins - deployed in battery-powered sensor systems and portable meters.
For engineers reviewing the MSP430F6438IZQWR datasheet, MSP430F6438IZQWR pinout, MSP430F6438IZQWR application, or MSP430F6438IZQWR equivalent, key selection criteria include standby current (1.8 µA @ 3.0 V), wake-up time (3 µs), integrated LCD driver capability, dual DAC synchronization, and MicroStar Junior BGA (113-pin) package compatibility for space-constrained designs.
Technical Context
The MSP430F6438IZQWR implements a unified clock system with FLL stabilization, VLO and REFO internal sources, and support for both 32-kHz XT1 and up to 32-MHz XT2 crystals. Its power-management architecture includes programmable LDO core regulation, supply supervision, and five low-power modes (LPM0–LPM4.5).
Peripherals are tightly coupled via a 6-channel DMA controller and share access to the 12-bit ADC autoscan engine, dual synchronized DAC outputs, and hardware multiplier supporting 32-bit operations - enabling deterministic real-time control in analog-digital sensor fusion applications without CPU intervention.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | 16-bit RISC CPUXV2 with constant generators for high code efficiency |
| Flash / RAM | 256 KB flash + 18 KB RAM + 8 B backup RAM - supports field firmware updates and data retention during RTC operation |
| ADC Performance | 12-bit, 200 ksps, 16-channel (12 external + 4 internal) with autoscan - enables simultaneous multi-sensor sampling |
| DAC Capability | Dual 12-bit voltage-output DACs with hardware synchronization - suitable for precision reference generation or analog waveform synthesis |
| Low-Power Modes | LPM3: 1.8 µA @ 3.0 V; LPM3.5 (RTC active): 1.1 µA; LPM4.5 (shutdown): 0.3 µA - extends battery life in always-on sensing nodes |
| Wake-up Time | 3 µs from LPM3 to active mode - meets fast-response requirements in interrupt-driven metering and alarm systems |
| Package | MicroStar Junior™ BGA, 113-pin, 7 mm × 7 mm - provides high I/O density for compact PCB layouts |
Pinout & Package
MicroStar Junior™ BGA (113-pin), 7 mm × 7 mm body size, 0.5-mm pitch. Pinout validated per TI SLAS720F datasheet Figures 7-3 and 7-4 for ZQW package variant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RST/NMI/SBWTDIO | Reset / Non-maskable interrupt / Spy-Bi-Wire debug I/O | Single-pin JTAG-compatible interface for programming and real-time debugging without dedicated debug header |
| XIN / XOUT | Low-frequency crystal oscillator terminals | Supports 32.768-kHz watch crystal for precise RTC timing and low-power sleep clock source |
| XT2IN / XT2OUT | High-frequency crystal oscillator terminals | Enables up to 32-MHz system clock for high-speed processing or USB-capable peripherals (not present on this device) |
| P1.x–P9.x, PJ.x | General-purpose I/O with peripheral multiplexing | 74 total GPIO pins with configurable pullup/down, interrupt, and peripheral function mapping (e.g., USCI, ADC, timer capture) |
| LCDCAP / COMx / Sx | LCD driver charge pump and segment/common outputs | Direct drive of up to 160-segment LCD without external bias circuitry - reduces BOM count in display-based instruments |
| VCC / VSS / AVCC / AVSS / DVCC / DVSS | Power and ground rails | Dual-domain supply (digital/analog) with integrated LDO ensures stable core voltage and noise-isolated ADC reference path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 3.3-V LDO | Eliminates need for external regulator; supports programmable core voltage scaling to optimize active-mode power |
| Hardware Multiplier (MPY32) | Completes 32-bit multiply in one cycle - accelerates filtering, FFT, and control loop math without software overhead |
| 6-Channel DMA | Enables autonomous data movement between ADC, DAC, USCI, and memory - frees CPU for higher-layer tasks |
| RTC with Battery Backup | Maintains calendar/timekeeping during main power loss using VBAK rail - critical for energy metering and timestamped logging |
| Unified Clock System | Combines FLL, VLO, REFO, XT1, and XT2 sources with automatic failover - ensures robust timing under varying thermal and supply conditions |
Applications
| Analog Sensor Interface | Digital Metering |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Simultaneous acquisition of temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors in handheld environmental monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSP430F6438IZQWR acts as central sensor hub - configuring ADC autoscan, synchronizing dual DACs for reference calibration, and managing low-power sleep/wake cycles. Use Value: 12-bit ADC with internal shared reference and 200 ksps throughput delivers <1 LSB INL across 16 channels, enabling sub-degree Celsius accuracy without external precision references. | Use Scenario: Portable multimeter with LCD display, auto-ranging, and data logging over UART. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSP430F6438IZQWR serves as main controller - driving 160-segment LCD, executing measurement algorithms, and handling serial communication via USCI_A0. Use Value: Integrated LCD_B driver eliminates external bias IC and reduces layout complexity; LPM3.5 mode (1.1 µA) sustains RTC while preserving RAM contents during idle periods. |
| Thermostat Control | Remote-Controlled Actuator |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered HVAC thermostat with ambient sensing, setpoint adjustment, and relay control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSP430F6438IZQWR functions as real-time decision engine - reading thermistor/NTC inputs via ADC, comparing against thresholds, and toggling GPIO-driven relays or triacs. Use Value: Wake-up from LPM3 in 3 µs allows immediate response to temperature threshold breaches; comparator_B provides hardware-level overtemperature detection independent of CPU. | Use Scenario: IR remote receiver subsystem controlling motorized blinds or lighting systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSP430F6438IZQWR decodes NEC/RC5 protocols using USCI_A0's enhanced UART with automatic baud-rate detection and IrDA encoder/decoder logic. Use Value: Hardware-assisted IrDA decoding offloads timing-critical pulse-width analysis from firmware - improves reliability at low supply voltages (1.8 V minimum). |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSP430F6438IPZ | LQFP-100 package (14 mm × 14 mm); same silicon, identical peripherals and specs | Better suited for prototyping, manual soldering, and thermal management in non-space-constrained designs | Select when board area permits larger footprint and reworkability is prioritized over miniaturization |
| MSP430F6435IZQW | Same MicroStar Junior BGA-113 package but lacks dual DACs; 256 KB flash, 18 KB RAM retained | Applicable where DAC functionality is unnecessary - e.g., pure sensing or display-only applications | Choose for cost-sensitive designs requiring identical package and LCD/RTC/ADC features but no analog output generation |
Compared with MSP430F6438IPZ, the MSP430F6438IZQWR offers identical functionality in a smaller 7 mm × 7 mm BGA, reducing PCB area by ~70%; versus MSP430F6435IZQW, it adds dual synchronized 12-bit DACs essential for closed-loop analog control or precision reference generation.
Availability
MSP430F6438IZQWR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered sensor systems, portable digital meters, thermostats, and remote-control receivers requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MSP430F6438IZQWR 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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The MSP430F6438IZQWR belongs to TI's MSP430F6xx ultra-low-power MCU family, designed specifically for extended-battery-life applications in portable instrumentation, energy monitoring, and human-interface devices with integrated LCD and precision analog front-ends.
FAQ
What is the operating voltage range for the MSP430F6438IZQWR?
The MSP430F6438IZQWR operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V. This wide supply range enables direct use with single-cell Li-ion, Li-polymer, or two-cell alkaline batteries without intermediate regulation. The integrated LDO maintains stable 3.3-V core voltage across this input range, ensuring consistent performance of flash, RAM, and analog peripherals regardless of battery discharge state.
Does the MSP430F6438IZQWR support real-time clock functionality with battery backup?
Yes, the MSP430F6438IZQWR includes an RTC_B module with dedicated VBAK pin for battery backup. When main DVCC is removed, the RTC continues running using an external coin cell or supercapacitor connected to VBAK, preserving calendar/time data and alarm registers in the 8 B of backup RAM. This feature is confirmed in Section 8.30 and Figure 4-1 of the SLAS720F datasheet.
How many I/O pins does the MSP430F6438IZQWR provide, and are they all individually configurable?
The MSP430F6438IZQWR provides 74 general-purpose I/O pins across ports P1–P9 and PJ. Each pin supports individual direction control, pullup/pulldown enable, interrupt capability, and peripheral function multiplexing (e.g., USCI, ADC, timer). Pin configuration is managed via port control registers (PxDIR, PxREN, PxOUT) and function-select registers (PxSEL, PxSEL2), as documented in Sections 7.2 and 9.13 of the datasheet.
What communication interfaces are integrated into the MSP430F6438IZQWR?
The MSP430F6438IZQWR integrates two Universal Serial Communication Interfaces (USCI_A0 and USCI_A1, USCI_B0 and USCI_B1). USCI_A supports UART (with automatic baud-rate detection), IrDA, and SPI; USCI_B supports I²C and SPI. These are physically distinct modules - not shared resources - allowing concurrent UART + I²C operation, for example, in sensor hub applications.
Is the MSP430F6438IZQWR pin-compatible with other members of the MSP430F643x family in the same package?
Yes, the MSP430F6438IZQWR is pin-compatible with MSP430F6435IZQW and MSP430F6433IZQW in the MicroStar Junior BGA-113 package. All share identical pin assignments, electrical characteristics, and peripheral mappings per Figure 7-3 of SLAS720F. Functional differences (e.g., presence of DACs) do not affect pin behavior or routing - enabling drop-in replacement where firmware accommodates peripheral availability.
MSP430F6438IZQWR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 113-VFBGA
- Series:
- MSP430F6xx
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- MSP430 CPUXV2
- Core Size:
- 16-Bit
- Speed:
- 20MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, IrDA, LINbus, SCI, SPI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, DMA, LCD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 74
- Program Memory Size:
- 256KB (256K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 18K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 16x12b; D/A 2x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MSP430F6438IZQWR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSP430F6438IZQWR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSP430F6438IZQWR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MSP430F6438IZQWR reliable?
The price and inventory of MSP430F6438IZQWR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSP430F6438IZQWR is usually 5 days.
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Once your MSP430F6438IZQWR order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MSP430F6438IZQWR?
For technical support, including MSP430F6438IZQWR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSP430F6438IZQWR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSP430F6438IZQWR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSP430F6438IZQWR products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MSP430F6438IZQWR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSP430F6438IZQWR?
All MSP430F6438IZQWR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSP430F6438IZQWR, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MSP430F6438IZQWR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSP430F6438IZQWR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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