Texas Instruments MSP430I2021TPWR

Overview

MSP430I2021TPWR from Texas Instruments is a 16-bit ultra-low-power mixed-signal microcontroller optimized for precision energy metering and battery-powered monitoring. It integrates two 24-bit sigma-delta ADCs with differential PGA inputs, operates across 2.2 V–3.6 V, delivers 16.384-MHz system clock performance, and achieves 70 µA off-mode current at 3.0 V - enabling multi-year operation in smart plugs and submeters.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430I2021TPWR datasheet, MSP430I2021TPWR pinout, MSP430I2021TPWR application, or MSP430I2021TPWR equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual SD24 ADC architecture, TSSOP-28 package compatibility, LDO-regulated 1.8-V core supply, eUSCI_A0/eUSCI_B0 serial interfaces, and support for fast wake-up (1 µs) from LPM3 standby mode.

Technical Context

The MSP430I2021TPWR implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with constant generators and a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) capable of 16.384-MHz operation using internal or external resistor tuning. Its analog subsystem centers on two independent 24-bit sigma-delta ADC modules (SD24), each supporting differential input pairs, programmable gain amplifiers, and internal/external reference selection via the VREF pin.

Digital peripherals include two 16-bit Timer_A modules (TA0 and TA1), each with three capture/compare registers, a hardware multiplier for 16×16 operations, and dual enhanced universal serial communication interfaces: eUSCI_A0 (UART/IrDA/SPI) and eUSCI_B0 (SPI/I²C). Power management integrates an on-chip LDO, supply voltage monitor, brownout detector, and temperature sensor.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 28-pin TSSOP (PW), 9.7 mm × 4.4 mm body, 0.65-mm lead pitch. Thermal pad not present; no DVSS connection required.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MSP430I2021TPWR, MSP430I2020TPWR offers identical metrology capability at reduced memory cost, while MSP430I2031TPWR adds a third SD24 channel for expanded analog sensing - both retain pin-compatible TSSOP-28 layout and identical low-power behavior.

Availability

MSP430I2021TPWR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart plug energy monitoring, industrial current sensor nodes, and DC power supply health monitors requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MSP430I2021TPWR 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 reliability, precision, and energy efficiency.

The MSP430i202x product line targets ultra-low-power metrology and monitoring applications - specifically engineered for high-accuracy, battery-operated energy measurement in smart grid endpoints and portable medical devices.

FAQ

What is the maximum system clock frequency supported by the MSP430I2021TPWR?

The MSP430I2021TPWR supports a maximum system clock frequency of 16.384 MHz, delivered by its internal digitally controlled oscillator (DCO). This frequency is factory-trimmed and stable across voltage and temperature ranges, enabling deterministic timing for metrology sampling without external crystal oscillators. The DCO can operate using internal or external resistor tuning, and the MSP430I2021TPWR maintains this 16.384-MHz capability in all active modes.

Does the MSP430I2021TPWR include an integrated voltage reference for its ADCs?

Yes, the MSP430I2021TPWR includes an internal voltage reference selectable via the SD24REFS bit. When enabled (SD24REFS = 1), it provides a stable reference for the two 24-bit sigma-delta ADCs without requiring external components. The VREF pin must remain unloaded and decoupled only with the recommended capacitor (CVREF) to AVSS. External references up to 2.5 V may also be applied to VREF when SD24REFS = 0.

How many general-purpose I/O pins does the MSP430I2021TPWR provide in the TSSOP-28 package?

The MSP430I2021TPWR in the TSSOP-28 (PW) package provides 16 general-purpose I/O pins: P1.0 through P1.7 and P2.0 through P2.3. All support peripheral multiplexing including UART, SPI, I²C, Timer_A capture/compare, and analog input functions. Pins P2.4–P2.7 are not bonded out in the 28-pin variant and must be configured as outputs driven low in software per datasheet guidance.

Can the MSP430I2021TPWR operate from a single 3.3-V supply without external regulators?

Yes, the MSP430I2021TPWR can operate directly from a single 3.3-V supply. Its integrated LDO generates a regulated 1.8-V core voltage, and all I/Os are 3.3-V tolerant. The device requires only decoupling capacitors on VCC, AVSS, DVSS, and VREF (if used), with no external regulator needed - simplifying power design for compact metering PCBs.

What debug interface does the MSP430I2021TPWR support, and what hardware is required?

The MSP430I2021TPWR supports the Spy-Bi-Wire (SBW) interface using the RST/NMI/SBWTDIO and TEST/SBWTCK pins. Programming and debugging require a TI MSP-FET or compatible SBW-capable emulator. No JTAG header is needed - the two-wire interface uses existing reset and test pins, preserving all GPIO for application use in the final design.