Texas Instruments MSP430FG4617IPZ

Overview

MSP430FG4617IPZ from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 92KB+256B flash, 8KB RAM, a 12-bit ADC with 12 channels, dual 12-bit DACs, three configurable op amps, integrated LCD driver (160 segments), and dual 16-bit timers (Timer_A3 and Timer_B7). It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and targets portable medical devices and electronic metering systems requiring extended battery life and analog signal conditioning.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430FG4617IPZ datasheet, MSP430FG4617IPZ pinout, MSP430FG4617IPZ application, or MSP430FG4617IPZ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 100-pin LQFP package, 80 I/O pins, on-chip LCD charge pump, real-time clock capability, and support for UART, SPI, I²C, and IrDA via two serial interfaces (USCI_A0 and USCI_B0).

Technical Context

The MSP430FG4617IPZ implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with constant generators and a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO), enabling wake-up from standby mode in under 6 µs. Its peripheral set includes hardware DMA (3 channels), a basic timer with RTC functionality, supply voltage supervisor (SVS) with programmable threshold, and brownout detection.

It integrates two independent serial communication modules: USCI_A0 supports UART, IrDA, and SPI; USCI_B0 supports SPI and I²C. The ADC12 uses internal or external reference, supports autoscan, and includes sample-and-hold; both DAC12 outputs are synchronized and voltage-driven.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MSP430FG4617IPZ is housed in a 100-pin LQFP (PZ) package measuring 14 mm × 14 mm, with exposed thermal pad and standard JEDEC footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430FG4618IPZ and MSP430CG4617IPZ, the MSP430FG4617IPZ balances flash size and field-programmability for mid-complexity applications-offering sufficient memory for calibrated sensor processing while retaining in-system reprogrammability via JTAG or BSL.

Availability

MSP430FG4617IPZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, electronic meters, and industrial sensor nodes requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MSP430FG4617IPZ 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 specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in low-power design and precision analog integration.

The MSP430FG4617IPZ belongs to TI's MSP430xG461x ultra-low-power microcontroller family, designed specifically for battery-operated measurement systems requiring integrated analog peripherals, LCD driving, and real-time clock functionality.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430FG4617IPZ?

The MSP430FG4617IPZ supports a maximum system clock (MCLK) frequency of 8 MHz using the XT2 oscillator. Its DCO-based FLL+ can achieve up to 8 MHz without external crystals, and the CPU executes instructions at a 125-ns cycle time (8 MIPS) under optimal conditions. Actual performance depends on supply voltage and temperature, with guaranteed operation across 1.8 V–3.6 V at ambient temperatures from –40°C to 85°C.

Does the MSP430FG4617IPZ support I²C communication?

Yes, the MSP430FG4617IPZ supports I²C communication through its USCI_B0 module, which provides dedicated SCL and SDA pins (P3.2 and P3.1). The module supports both master and slave modes, 7-bit and 10-bit addressing, clock stretching, and multi-master arbitration. I²C functionality is enabled by configuring UCB0CTL0 and UCB0CTL1 registers, and it operates independently of the USCI_A0 UART/SPI interface.

How many LCD segments can the MSP430FG4617IPZ drive?

The MSP430FG4617IPZ integrates the LCD_A module capable of driving up to 160 segments using four common (COM0–COM3) and up to 40 segment lines. It supports static, 2-mux, 3-mux, and 4-mux configurations. The regulated charge pump (LCDCPEN = 1) generates internal LCD bias voltages, eliminating need for external resistors or capacitors - confirmed in Section 5.14 of the SLAS508K datasheet.

What are the key differences between MSP430FG4617IPZ and MSP430FG4619IPZ?

The MSP430FG4617IPZ has 92KB+256B flash and 8KB RAM, while the MSP430FG4619IPZ offers 120KB+256B flash and 4KB RAM. Both share identical peripherals (ADC12, DAC12, op amps, timers, USCI), pinout, and package. The FG4619 targets applications needing larger firmware space (e.g., protocol stacks), whereas the FG4617 prioritizes RAM for data buffering - critical in real-time sensor processing tasks executed by the MSP430FG4617IPZ.

Is the MSP430FG4617IPZ RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MSP430FG4617IPZ is RoHS compliant and lead-free. Per TI's official packaging information (SLAS508K, Section 8), the PZ (LQFP) package uses matte tin lead finish and meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 3 requirements. The device carries the "Green" designation in TI's packaging addendum and conforms to EU Directive 2011/65/EU and China RoHS II standards.