Texas Instruments MSP430FR68721IRGCR
- Part No.:
- MSP430FR68721IRGCR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MSP430FR68721IRGCR.pdf
- Description:
- IC MCU 16BIT 64KB FRAM 64VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MSP430FR68721IRGCR from Texas Instruments is a 16-bit ultra-low-power FRAM microcontroller featuring 64KB nonvolatile FRAM, 2KB RAM, integrated 12-bit ADC with 8 external channels, 112-segment LCD driver, and dual eUSCI modules supporting UART, SPI, and I²C. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and targets battery-powered utility meters and sensor management systems.
For engineers reviewing the MSP430FR68721IRGCR datasheet, MSP430FR68721IRGCR pinout, MSP430FR68721IRGCR application, or MSP430FR68721IRGCR equivalent, key selection criteria include FRAM endurance (10¹⁵ write cycles), LPM3.5 RTC current (0.35 µA), 64-pin VQFN package compatibility, and absence of AES encryption-critical for cost-sensitive metering designs requiring long-term data logging without cryptographic overhead.
Technical Context
This device belongs to the MSP430FR687x(1) family with I²C-based Bootloader (BSL), fixed-frequency DCO plus LFXT/HFXT clock sources, and a CPUXV2 core. It supports seven low-power modes including LPM3.5 (RTC active) and LPM4.5 (shutdown at 0.04 µA), optimized for intermittent sensing and long-duration battery operation.
The peripheral set includes three 16-bit Timer_A instances (3/3/2 capture/compare registers), one 16-bit Timer_B (2/5 registers), 32-bit hardware multiplier, three-channel DMA, and capacitive touch I/O on all ports-enabling direct integration into human-interface meter front-ends without external components.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | 16-bit CPUXV2 RISC core, up to 16-MHz operation - enables deterministic real-time control with minimal power per instruction. |
| Nonvolatile Memory | 64KB FRAM with 10¹⁵ write endurance - eliminates flash wear-out concerns in frequent data-logging applications like heat cost allocators. |
| Power Consumption (LPM3.5) | 0.35 µA typical with RTC active - sustains calendar/timekeeping for >10 years on a single CR2032 coin cell. |
| ADC | 12-bit SAR ADC with internal reference and 8 external input channels - supports precision analog sensor interfacing without external voltage references. |
| LCD Driver | Integrated 112-segment LCD controller with contrast control - drives standard utility meter displays directly, reducing BOM count. |
| eUSCI Peripherals | eUSCI_A0/A1 (UART/IrDA/SPI) + eUSCI_B0/B1 (I²C/SPI) - enables dual-protocol communication for HAN connectivity and sensor hub coordination. |
| Package | VQFN-64 (9 mm × 9 mm, RGC) with exposed thermal pad - supports compact, thermally efficient PCB layouts in sealed meter enclosures. |
Pinout & Package
VQFN-64 (RGC) package with 0.5-mm pitch and exposed thermal pad (recommended to connect to DVSS). Pin functions conform to TI's MSP430FR687x(1) pinout specification for 64-pin PM/RGC packages (Figure 4-2).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P1.0–P1.7 | General-purpose I/O with capacitive touch, ADC inputs, timer I/O | Supports direct electrode connection for touch buttons and analog sensor inputs without external circuitry. |
| P2.0–P2.3 | UCA0TXD/UCA0RXD/UCA0CLK/UCA0STE (eUSCI_A0) | Dedicated UART interface for firmware updates or host communication; P2.0/P2.1 serve as I²C BSL pins in this variant. |
| P3.0–P3.7 | UCB1CLK/UCB1SIMO/UCB1SOMI/UCB1STE + TB0.x (Timer_B) | Primary I²C bus (eUSCI_B1) and Timer_B outputs for LCD COM line generation or PWM-driven peripherals. |
| P6.0–P6.6 | COM0–COM3, LCDREF, LCDCAP, R23/R13/R03 | Direct LCD segment and common-line drive; Rxx pins support resistor ladder contrast control. |
| PJ.4/PJ.5 | LFXIN/LFXOUT | Connects to 32.768-kHz crystal for RTC accuracy; no HFXT support in MSP430FR68721 - limits high-speed crystal options. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ferroelectric RAM (FRAM) | 64KB unified memory space enabling simultaneous code execution and data logging without erase delays or wear leveling. |
| Ultra-low-power RTC | 0.35 µA in LPM3.5 mode with calendar and alarm - delivers precise time-stamped event logging over multi-year deployments. |
| Capacitive Touch I/O | All GPIO pins support CSD (Capacitive Sigma-Delta) sensing - eliminates external touch controllers in thermostats and portable medical devices. |
| Hardware CRC Engine | CRC16 and CRC32 accelerators offload checksum computation from CPU - improves firmware update integrity verification speed and efficiency. |
| Segment LCD Driver | 112-segment capability with programmable mux and contrast control - drives standard utility meter displays without external bias ICs. |
Applications
| Heat Cost Allocators | Electricity/Water/Gas Meters |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Compact, battery-powered units mounted on radiators measure temperature differentials and flow time to allocate heating costs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main system controller managing sensor acquisition, FRAM-based usage logging, LCD display, and IR/UART communication. Use Value: 0.35 µA RTC current enables >10-year battery life; 64KB FRAM stores hourly consumption data across 10+ years without degradation. |
Use Scenario: Residential utility meters with tamper detection, pulse counting, and local display require reliable long-life embedded control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary MCU handling metrology ADC sampling, LCD refresh, secure data storage, and optical/RS-485 communication interfaces. Use Value: Integrated 12-bit ADC and 112-segment LCD driver reduce external component count; FRAM endurance ensures 15+ year field reliability. |
| Thermostats | Portable Medical Equipment |
Use Scenario: Battery-operated HVAC controllers monitor ambient temperature/humidity and drive relay outputs or wireless transceivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central processor executing PID algorithms, capacitive touch UI, and low-power sleep/wake scheduling. Use Value: All-port capacitive touch eliminates mechanical buttons; LPM4.5 shutdown at 0.04 µA extends AA battery life beyond 5 years. |
Use Scenario: Handheld glucose monitors or blood pressure cuffs require accurate analog measurement, data storage, and clear LCD feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sensor interface MCU acquiring analog signals, performing calibration math via 32-bit hardware multiplier, and storing results in FRAM. Use Value: 12-bit ADC with internal reference ensures ±1 LSB accuracy without external components; FRAM enables instant save-on-event for critical readings. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSP430FR6872IRGCR | Identical FRAM/RAM/peripherals but includes AES-128 encryption coprocessor and UART-based BSL. | Suitable where firmware security or UART-based field updates are required; not drop-in due to BSL protocol difference. | Select MSP430FR6872IRGCR only if cryptographic protection or UART bootloader access is mandatory. |
| MSP430FR69721IPMR | Same FRAM/RAM/peripherals and I²C BSL, but in 64-pin LQFP (10 mm × 10 mm) with higher thermal resistance. | Preferred for through-hole prototyping or legacy PCBs designed for LQFP; identical functionality otherwise. | Choose MSP430FR69721IPMR when board layout requires LQFP footprint or thermal mass exceeds VQFN capability. |
Compared with MSP430FR68721IRGCR, the MSP430FR6872IRGCR adds security features at the cost of BSL incompatibility, while the MSP430FR69721IPMR offers identical functionality in a larger, easier-to-solder package-making it ideal for development or low-volume production where VQFN reflow is constrained.
Availability
MSP430FR68721IRGCR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electricity meters, heat cost allocators, and portable medical equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.
Supply support for MSP430FR68721IRGCR 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, with decades of expertise in ultra-low-power microcontrollers and energy-efficient system design.
The MSP430FR687x(1) product line targets battery-powered utility and industrial metering applications, emphasizing FRAM-based data integrity, sub-µA real-time clock operation, and integrated analog peripherals to minimize external components.
FAQ
Does MSP430FR68721IRGCR support AES encryption?
No, MSP430FR68721IRGCR does not include the AES-128/256 security coprocessor. This feature is present only in MSP430FR69xx(1) and MSP430FR6872 devices. The MSP430FR68721IRGCR omits AES to reduce cost and power for applications where cryptographic acceleration is unnecessary, such as basic utility metering with local-only data storage.
What is the maximum operating frequency of MSP430FR68721IRGCR?
The MSP430FR68721IRGCR supports a maximum CPU clock frequency of 16 MHz using the factory-trimmed DCO or external HFXT crystal. Its timing specifications are validated across the full 1.8 V–3.6 V supply range, enabling consistent performance in varying battery conditions without frequency throttling.
Which crystal oscillator options are supported by MSP430FR68721IRGCR?
MSP430FR68721IRGCR supports LFXT (32.768 kHz crystal on PJ.4/PJ.5) and HFXT (up to 24 MHz) for high-speed operation. It does not implement HFXIN/HFXOUT in the FR687x(1) series - confirmed in the functional block diagram notes - so external high-frequency crystals must connect to dedicated HFXT pins, not generic I/O.
How many capture/compare registers does MSP430FR68721IRGCR provide across its timers?
The MSP430FR68721IRGCR integrates three Timer_A modules (TA0, TA1, TA2) with 3/3/2 capture/compare registers respectively, and one Timer_B module (TB0) with 2/5 registers - totaling 15 configurable compare/capture channels for PWM generation, input capture, or LCD COM timing.
Is MSP430FR68721IRGCR pin-compatible with MSP430FR6872IRGCR?
Yes, MSP430FR68721IRGCR and MSP430FR6872IRGCR share identical 64-pin VQFN (RGC) packaging and pinout, including signal mapping and power/ground locations. However, they differ in BSL type (I²C vs. UART) and AES inclusion, so firmware and security architecture must be verified independently despite mechanical compatibility.
MSP430FR68721IRGCR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Series:
- MSP430™ FRAM
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Core Processor:
- MSP430 CPUXV2
- Core Size:
- 16-Bit
- Speed:
- 16MHz
- Connectivity:
- I2C, IrDA, SCI, SPI, UART/USART
- Peripherals:
- Brown-out Detect/Reset, DMA, LCD, POR, PWM, WDT
- Number of I/O:
- 51
- Program Memory Size:
- 64KB (64K x 8)
- Program Memory Type:
- FRAM
- EEPROM Size:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 2K x 8
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 1.8V ~ 3.6V
- Data Converters:
- A/D 8x12b
- Oscillator Type:
- Internal
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
MSP430FR68721IRGCR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSP430FR68721IRGCR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSP430FR68721IRGCR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
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The price and inventory of MSP430FR68721IRGCR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSP430FR68721IRGCR is usually 5 days.
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5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MSP430FR68721IRGCR?
For technical support, including MSP430FR68721IRGCR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSP430FR68721IRGCR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSP430FR68721IRGCR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSP430FR68721IRGCR 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 MSP430FR68721IRGCR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSP430FR68721IRGCR?
All MSP430FR68721IRGCR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSP430FR68721IRGCR, 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 MSP430FR68721IRGCR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSP430FR68721IRGCR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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