Texas Instruments MSP430G2452IRSA16T

Overview

MSP430G2452IRSA16T from Texas Instruments is an ultra-low-power 16-bit RISC mixed-signal microcontroller featuring a 10-bit 200-ksps ADC, Universal Serial Interface (USI) supporting SPI and I²C, and a 16-bit Timer_A with three capture/compare registers. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, consumes 220 µA in active mode at 1 MHz/2.2 V, and targets battery-powered sensor nodes and portable measurement systems.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430G2452IRSA16T datasheet, MSP430G2452IRSA16T pinout, MSP430G2452IRSA16T application, or MSP430G2452IRSA16T equivalent, key selection criteria include its QFN-16 package, integrated ADC10 with internal reference and autoscan, USI-based serial communication, ultra-fast <1 µs wake-up from standby, and capacitive-touch enabled I/O capability.

Technical Context

The MSP430G2452IRSA16T implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with constant generators and seven addressing modes, enabling efficient register-to-register execution in one CPU cycle. Its clock system integrates a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO), internal low-frequency oscillator (VLO), and 32-kHz crystal support - all configurable via BCSCTL registers.

Peripheral integration includes a single 16-bit Timer_A (TA0) with three capture/compare registers, an 8-channel analog comparator (Comp_A+), and USI hardware supporting both SPI and I²C protocols. The ADC10 module provides 10-bit SAR conversion with sample-and-hold, internal reference, and autoscan across up to eight analog inputs - exclusive to the G2x52 series.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-pin QFN (RSA), 3 mm × 3 mm, 0.4 mm pitch, with exposed thermal pad connected to DVSS per TI recommendation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430G2452IRSA16T, the MSP430G2553IRHA48T offers greater memory and UART but demands PCB redesign, while the MSP430FR2152IPW16R provides FRAM advantages at the cost of ADC10 feature parity - making the MSP430G2452IRSA16T optimal for cost-sensitive, ADC-centric, space-constrained designs.

Availability

MSP430G2452IRSA16T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart sensor nodes, portable data loggers, capacitive-touch interfaces, and low-cost energy monitors requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MSP430G2452IRSA16T 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, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions with emphasis on power efficiency and system integration.

The MSP430G2xx family was designed specifically for ultra-low-power portable measurement and sensing applications, combining mixed-signal peripherals, intelligent power management, and compact packaging to extend battery life without sacrificing functionality.

FAQ

What is the maximum ADC sampling rate supported by the MSP430G2452IRSA16T?

The MSP430G2452IRSA16T supports a maximum ADC10 sampling rate of 200 kSps. This specification is achieved under optimal conditions: VCC = 2.2 V, ADC10CLK = 5 MHz, and internal reference enabled. The ADC10 module uses a successive approximation register (SAR) architecture and includes sample-and-hold functionality. Actual throughput in application depends on clock source stability, reference selection, and conversion sequence configuration - all documented in the SLAS722G datasheet section 5.2.

Does the MSP430G2452IRSA16T support UART communication?

No, the MSP430G2452IRSA16T does not include a hardware UART peripheral. It features a Universal Serial Interface (USI) module that supports only SPI and I²C protocols. UART functionality must be implemented in firmware using timer-generated bit-banging or GPIO toggling. For native UART support, consider the MSP430G2553IRHA48T, which integrates USCI modules with UART capability - though it requires a different package and pinout than the MSP430G2452IRSA16T.

What is the function of the TEST pin (Pin 11) on the MSP430G2452IRSA16T?

The TEST pin (Pin 11) on the MSP430G2452IRSA16T serves two primary functions: it selects test mode for JTAG pins on Port 1, and it connects directly to the device protection fuse. During normal operation, TEST must be held high (DVCC) or low (DVSS) - floating is not permitted. When pulled high during reset, it enables JTAG mode; when pulled low, it enables Spy-Bi-Wire mode. TI documentation explicitly warns that improper handling of this pin may permanently blow the security fuse, locking flash memory against future programming - a critical consideration in production programming workflows for the MSP430G2452IRSA16T.

Can the MSP430G2452IRSA16T operate from a single 1.8 V supply?

Yes, the MSP430G2452IRSA16T is fully specified to operate across a supply voltage range of 1.8 V to 3.6 V. At 1.8 V, the maximum guaranteed CPU frequency is 1 MHz (per SLAS722G Section 6.3), and all peripherals - including ADC10, USI, Timer_A, and comparator - remain functional. The device maintains ultra-low-power characteristics down to 1.8 V: active current drops to ~180 µA at 1 MHz/1.8 V, and standby current remains at 0.5 µA. This makes the MSP430G2452IRSA16T suitable for single-cell lithium polymer or two-cell alkaline systems without voltage regulation.

How many analog input channels does the ADC10 module support on the MSP430G2452IRSA16T?

The ADC10 module on the MSP430G2452IRSA16T supports up to eight analog input channels (A0–A7), accessible via P1.0, P1.1, P1.2, P1.3, P1.4, P1.5, P1.6, and P1.7 respectively. All eight channels are available for autoscan mode, allowing sequential conversion without CPU intervention. Channel selection is controlled via ADC10CTL1 and ADC10AE registers. Note that analog functionality is only enabled on pins configured as analog inputs using ADC10AE0/1 - digital I/O functionality remains available on the same pins when analog mode is disabled.