Texas Instruments MSP430FR68221IG56R

Overview

MSP430FR68221IG56R from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit FRAM microcontroller featuring 64KB nonvolatile FRAM, 2KB RAM, 12-bit ADC with 8 external channels, integrated 116-segment LCD driver, and real-time clock with calendar. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and supports LPM3.5 (0.35 µA typical) for battery-powered utility meters and sensor management systems.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430FR68221IG56R datasheet, MSP430FR68221IG56R pinout, MSP430FR68221IG56R application, or MSP430FR68221IG56R equivalent, key selection criteria include FRAM endurance (10¹⁵ write cycles), capacitive touch I/O without external components, eUSCI_A/B modules supporting UART/IrDA/SPI/I²C, and absence of AES256 encryption-distinguishing it from MSP430FR69xx variants.

Technical Context

This device belongs to the MSP430FR682x(1) family with DCO-based clock system and LFXT-only support (no HFXIN/HFOUT). It integrates three 16-bit Timer_A modules (3/3/2 capture/compare registers), one 16-bit Timer_B (2/5 registers), and dual eUSCI_A/eUSCI_B peripherals enabling simultaneous UART and I²C communication.

The MCU implements a unified memory architecture where FRAM serves as program, data, and storage space. Its RTC domain operates in LPM3.5 using a 3.7-pF crystal, and all I/O pins support capacitive touch sensing with no external components required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-56 package (6.1 mm × 14 mm body size) with exposed thermal pad recommended for grounding. Pin functions follow multiplexed I/O mapping per TI SLASE23E Rev. August 2018.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430FR6822IG56 and MSP430FR69221IG56, the MSP430FR68221IG56R provides I²C BSL support without AES overhead-ideal for secure-but-non-encrypted field updates in utility metering and industrial sensing.

Availability

MSP430FR68221IG56R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for heat cost allocators, utility meters, and portable medical equipment requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and consistent FRAM performance across production batches.

Supply support for MSP430FR68221IG56R 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 delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The MSP430FR682x(1) product line targets ultra-low-power sensing and metering applications, emphasizing FRAM reliability, extended battery life, and integration of LCD, RTC, and capacitive touch in compact packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430FR68221IG56R?

The MSP430FR68221IG56R features a 16-bit RISC CPUXV2 core with a maximum clock frequency of 16 MHz. This is achieved using the digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) with 10 factory-trimmed frequency settings, or optionally via the 32-kHz LFXT crystal for low-power timing domains. The 16-MHz capability supports real-time control tasks while maintaining ultra-low active-mode current (~100 µA/MHz).

Does the MSP430FR68221IG56R support AES encryption?

No, the MSP430FR68221IG56R does not implement the AES256 security coprocessor. Per TI SLASE23E documentation, AES256 is explicitly excluded from all MSP430FR682x and MSP430FR682x1 devices. This distinguishes it from the MSP430FR69xx series, which includes AES hardware acceleration. Applications requiring cryptographic operations must implement software-based solutions or select an alternative part such as MSP430FR69221IG56.

What package type and pin count does the MSP430FR68221IG56R use?

The MSP430FR68221IG56R uses a TSSOP-56 package with a 6.1 mm × 14 mm body size. It has 56 leads arranged in a single-row surface-mount configuration. This package is shared across the MSP430FR682x(1) and MSP430FR692x(1) families and supports the full I/O and peripheral mapping documented in TI's SLASE23E datasheet revision August 2018.

Can the MSP430FR68221IG56R drive a 116-segment LCD directly?

Yes, the MSP430FR68221IG56R integrates the LCD_C peripheral capable of driving up to 116 segments in static or 2–4 multiplex configurations. It includes dedicated COM0–COM3 pins, segment outputs across multiple ports (P6, P7, P9, PJ), and programmable contrast control. No external LCD controller or bias generator is required, reducing system BOM and power consumption in thermostats and utility meters.

What is the standby current consumption of the MSP430FR68221IG56R in LPM3 mode?

In LPM3 mode (with VLO enabled), the MSP430FR68221IG56R consumes 0.4 µA typical current. When operating in LPM3.5 with RTC active and powered by a 32-kHz crystal, current drops further to 0.35 µA typical. These values are specified in TI's SLASE23E datasheet and enable decade-long operation on primary lithium batteries in metering and sensing applications.