Texas Instruments MSP430FR6879IPNR

Overview

MSP430FR6879IPNR from Texas Instruments is a 16-bit ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller featuring 128KB ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), 2KB SRAM, 12-bit ADC with 16 external inputs, integrated LCD driver for up to 320 segments, and real-time clock with calendar. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V and supports seven low-power modes including LPM4.5 (0.02 µA typical), targeting battery-powered metering applications.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430FR6879IPNR datasheet, MSP430FR6879IPNR pinout, MSP430FR6879IPNR application, or MSP430FR6879IPNR equivalent, key selection criteria include FRAM endurance (10¹⁵ write cycles), RTC current draw (0.35 µA in LPM3.5), LCD segment count support, dual eUSCI_A/B modules (UART/I²C/SPI), and 80-pin LQFP package compatibility with capacitive touch I/O on all ports P1–P10 and PJ.

Technical Context

The MSP430FR6879IPNR implements the CPUXV2 core with 16 general-purpose registers and integrates a 32-bit hardware multiplier, three-channel DMA, and dual CRC engines (CRC16/CRC32). Its clock system combines factory-trimmed DCO (10 frequencies), LFXT (32-kHz crystal), HFXT, and VLO for flexible low-power timing.

Analog subsystem includes a 16-channel analog comparator, programmable internal voltage reference (REF_A), and ADC12_B with sample-and-hold-supporting up to 16 single-ended or 8 differential inputs. The LCD_C module drives static or multiplexed displays (2–8 mux) with contrast control and dedicated segment/common pins mapped across P6–P10 and PJ.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MSP430FR6879IPNR is housed in an 80-pin LQFP (PN) package measuring 12 mm × 12 mm, with exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected), RoHS-compliant finish, and standard JEDEC moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430FR6877IPNR, the MSP430FR6879IPNR doubles FRAM capacity for extended data logging; compared with MSP430FR68791IPNR, it retains UART BSL for standalone programming without I²C pull-ups or bus arbitration logic.

Availability

MSP430FR6879IPNR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for water meters, heat cost allocators, and portable medical meters requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and TI-authorized traceability.

Supply support for MSP430FR6879IPNR 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 personal electronics markets.

The MSP430 ULP FRAM portfolio targets energy-constrained applications such as utility metering and portable instrumentation, combining FRAM nonvolatility with sub-µA low-power modes and integrated analog peripherals.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MSP430FR6879IPNR?

The MSP430FR6879IPNR operates at up to 16 MHz using its factory-trimmed DCO or external HFXT crystal. This frequency is fully supported across the entire 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply range and enables real-time execution of metrology algorithms, LCD refresh, and communication stacks without throttling.

Does the MSP430FR6879IPNR support capacitive touch sensing on all I/O pins?

Yes, the MSP430FR6879IPNR supports capacitive touch sensing on all 63 general-purpose I/O pins across ports P1–P10 and PJ. No external RC networks or dedicated touch controller ICs are required, reducing system cost and PCB complexity in meter front-panel interfaces.

What LCD configurations does the MSP430FR6879IPNR's LCD_C module support?

The MSP430FR6879IPNR's LCD_C module supports static, 2-mux, 3-mux, 4-mux, 6-mux, and 8-mux LCD displays with up to 320 total segments. It includes programmable contrast control, charge pump regulation, and dedicated COM/SEG pin mapping across P6–P10 and PJ for direct display connection.

How does the FRAM endurance of the MSP430FR6879IPNR compare to traditional flash memory?

The MSP430FR6879IPNR's FRAM offers 10¹⁵ write cycles-orders of magnitude higher than typical flash (10⁴–10⁵ cycles). This enables frequent data logging (e.g., every second) for decades without wear-out, eliminating the need for complex wear-leveling firmware in utility meter applications.

Is the MSP430FR6879IPNR pin-compatible with other devices in the MSP430FR687x family?

Yes, the MSP430FR6879IPNR in the 80-pin LQFP (PN) package shares identical pinout and electrical characteristics with MSP430FR6877IPNR and MSP430FR68791IPNR. This allows hardware reuse across variants differing only in FRAM size or bootloader interface (UART vs. I²C).