Texas Instruments MSP430TCH5ERHBT

Overview

MSP430TCH5ERHBT from Texas Instruments is a haptics-enabled mixed-signal microcontroller integrating Immersion TouchSense™ technology, a 10-bit 200-ksps ADC with internal reference, up to 24 capacitive touch I/O pins, and dual 16-bit Timer_A modules - designed for touch-and-haptic feedback systems in portable navigation devices and mobile phones.

For engineers reviewing the MSP430TCH5ERHBT datasheet, MSP430TCH5ERHBT pinout, MSP430TCH5ERHBT application, or MSP430TCH5ERHBT equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-specific pin functions, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options for haptics-capable MCU selection.

Technical Context

The MSP430TCH5ERHBT implements a 16-bit RISC CPU with 62.5-ns instruction cycle time, digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) calibrated up to 16 MHz, and five ultra-low-power modes - including LPM4 with 0.1 µA off-mode current and sub-1 µs wake-up latency. Its USCI module supports UART/LIN with automatic baud-rate detection, IrDA encoding/decoding, synchronous SPI, and I²C.

It integrates a dedicated haptics engine supporting 122 programmable effects, audio-to-haptics synchronization, and LRA/ERM actuator drive control via PWM output, alongside an on-chip comparator (COMP_A+) with eight input channels and configurable hysteresis for analog signal compare or slope A/D conversion.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 32-pin QFN (RHB), 5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (recommended connection to DVSS).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar haptics-enabled MCU applications.

Compared with MSP430TCH5ERHBT, MSP430FR2633IRHBT offers FRAM-based reliability at lower active power but lacks licensed haptics IP, while STM32L432KCU6 provides ARM architecture flexibility at the cost of increased BOM and firmware development overhead for haptics functionality.

Availability

MSP430TCH5ERHBT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable navigation devices, mobile phones, gaming accessories, and home appliance control panels requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MSP430TCH5ERHBT 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 specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies - with over 50 years of innovation in low-power microcontrollers.

The MSP430TCH5ERHBT belongs to TI's ultra-low-power MSP430x2xx family, engineered specifically for battery-operated human-interface applications where simultaneous capacitive touch sensing and programmable haptic feedback are essential.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MSP430TCH5ERHBT in a touch-enabled system?

The MSP430TCH5ERHBT serves as an integrated haptics and capacitive touch controller, combining Immersion TouchSense™ technology with up to 24 touch I/O pins and a 10-bit ADC. It replaces discrete touch and haptics ICs by executing effect sequences, detecting touch events, and driving LRA/ERM actuators directly - reducing system complexity and power consumption in devices like smartphones and tablets. The MSP430TCH5ERHBT handles both sensing and feedback within a single chip.

Does the MSP430TCH5ERHBT support audio-to-haptics conversion?

Yes, the MSP430TCH5ERHBT supports audio-to-haptics conversion through its integrated ADC and programmable haptics engine. It accepts analog audio input, performs envelope detection, and maps frequency bands to corresponding haptic effects - enabling subwoofer-like tactile output without external DSP. This capability is explicitly documented in the SLAS895 datasheet and used in typical application Figure 3. The MSP430TCH5ERHBT implements this function using its ADC10 module and TouchSense firmware layer.

What package type and pin count does the MSP430TCH5ERHBT use?

The MSP430TCH5ERHBT uses a 32-pin QFN package (RHB), measuring 5 mm × 5 mm with 0.5 mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This package is confirmed in Table 1 of the SLAS895 datasheet and matches the pinout diagram labeled "RHB32 PACKAGE (TOP VIEW)". The device shares this footprint with other members of the MSP430TCH5E family, ensuring layout compatibility across variants. The MSP430TCH5ERHBT's RHB package supports high-density integration in space-constrained portable devices.

How does the MSP430TCH5ERHBT achieve ultra-low-power operation?

The MSP430TCH5ERHBT achieves ultra-low-power operation through five software-selectable low-power modes, a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) that stabilizes in less than 1 µs, and peripheral-level clock gating. In LPM4 mode, it draws only 0.1 µA with RAM retention, and wakes to active mode in under 1 µs. Its active current is 230 µA at 1 MHz/2.2 V. These specifications are measured and guaranteed per the SLAS895 datasheet. The MSP430TCH5ERHBT leverages these features to extend battery life in portable gaming consoles and navigation devices.

Is the Immersion TouchSense™ technology included with no additional licensing fees?

Yes, the MSP430TCH5ERHBT includes a fully licensed implementation of Immersion TouchSense™ technology with no additional royalty or license fee required. As stated in the SLAS895 datasheet description: "MSP430TCH5E device provides a programmable use of Immersion TouchSense Technology with no additional fees." This embedded license enables immediate deployment of all 122 haptic effects, audio synchronization, and programmable sequencing - eliminating third-party IP costs. The MSP430TCH5ERHBT delivers this capability out-of-the-box with certified firmware.