Texas Instruments has introduced a new ultra-low-power MSP430â„¢ microcontroller (MCU) family, designed to deliver the lowest power consumption and include on-chip LCD controllers. These MCUs are built with a minimal memory footprint, making them ideal for a wide range of applications such as home automation, smart appliances, remote controls, and energy harvesting systems. Alongside this, TI launched a cost-effective LaunchPad prototyping kit that supports non-volatile FRAM technology, enabling faster development cycles and more efficient design processes.
The new MSP430FR4x/FR2x MCUs come equipped with 60 capacitive touch GPIO pins, offering developers flexibility in creating ultra-low-power solutions. The integration of an on-chip LCD controller enhances the MCU’s versatility, especially for applications requiring display capabilities. The newly released MSP-EXP430FR4133 LaunchPad includes a segmented LCD driver with software-configurable pins, simplifying hardware layout and ensuring optimal contrast even during low-power operations. This makes it a great choice for portable medical devices, fitness equipment, and other battery-powered systems.
One of the standout features of these MCUs is their use of FRAM (Ferroelectric Random Access Memory), which offers significantly faster write speeds compared to traditional non-volatile memory. FRAM can endure up to 10 billion write cycles, far exceeding the lifespan of typical flash memory. This allows for continuous real-time data logging without additional power consumption, streamlining code development and improving system reliability.
"TI's FRAM MCUs are uniquely flexible," said Don Powrie, CEO of DLP Design. "They allow us to divide RAM and program memory anywhere in the FRAM, enabling a compact and cost-effective electronic ink display solution. Normally, we would need a much larger MCU to achieve the same functionality, which increases product costs."
The MSP430FR4x/FR2x family expands TI’s code-compatible FRAM portfolio, offering memory options from 16KB to 128KB. With up to 60 GPIOs, system complexity is reduced, saving board space and lowering overall costs. These MCUs consume as little as 126µA/MHz in active mode and less than 1µA in standby when the LCD is enabled, making them perfect for energy-sensitive applications.
The LaunchPad kit also supports EnergyTraceâ„¢ technology, allowing real-time power analysis at resolutions ranging from nanoamps to milliamps. This helps developers optimize power usage and extend battery life. Additionally, the MCUs include essential peripherals such as two timers, a 10-bit ADC, an RTC, and communication interfaces like SPI and I2C, further reducing system size and cost.
TI provides comprehensive resources, including migration guides and application notes, to help developers transition smoothly from existing MCUs to the newer MSP430FR59x/69x series. The devices are available in 48- to 64-pin LQFP and TSSOP packages, offering flexibility for different design needs.
The MSP-EXP430FR4133 LaunchPad is now available for immediate delivery through TI’s online store and authorized distributors. Sample units of the MSP430FR4x MCU with LCD support are also accessible. Volume production of the entire MSP430FR4x/FR2x product line is scheduled to begin in November.
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