The **MSP430TM** microcontroller family from Texas Instruments introduces a new era of ultra-low-power performance, combining the lowest power consumption with on-chip LCD controllers and a compact memory footprint. This makes it ideal for applications such as home automation, smart appliances, remote controls, and energy harvesting systems. The newly launched **MSP430FR4x/FR2x** MCUs feature 60 capacitive touch GPIO pins, offering developers flexibility and efficiency in designing low-power products.
To support development, Texas Instruments has introduced a cost-effective **LaunchPad prototyping kit**, the **MSP-EXP430FR4133**, which includes an integrated segmented LCD driver and configurable LCD pins, making hardware layout simple and fast. Even in low-power mode, the MCU maintains optimal LCD contrast through an internal charge pump. These devices can drive up to 256 segments, making them suitable for medical and fitness equipment displays.
A key innovation is the integration of **non-volatile FRAM (Ferroelectric Random Access Memory)**, which offers write speeds up to 10 billion times faster than traditional non-volatile memory. This enables real-time data logging without extra power usage, simplifies firmware updates, and reduces manufacturing costs by cutting down programming time on the production line. FRAM also allows for bit-level access, eliminating the need for pre-erasing memory blocks.
As DLP Design CEO Don Powrie stated, "TI’s FRAM MCUs are uniquely flexible, allowing us to use FRAM as both RAM and program memory, enabling a low-cost electronic ink display solution in a small form factor." He added, "Without this technology, we would need a much larger MCU, increasing product costs."
Key features of the **MSP430FR4x/FR2x** include:
- A 16KB non-volatile FRAM memory that expands TI's code-compatible FRAM portfolio, with options up to 128KB.
- Up to 60 GPIO pins reduce system complexity and board space.
- Ultra-low power consumption—126µA/MHz in active mode, less than 1µA in standby with LCD enabled.
- Integrated timers, ADC, RTC, SPI, and I2C interfaces for reduced system cost and size.
- Real-time power analysis using **EnergyTraceâ„¢** technology, providing resolution from nA to mA.
- Built-in EEPROM-like functionality with faster writes, lower power, and higher reliability.
- Comprehensive development resources, including migration guides and application notes for seamless transition from existing MCUs.
The **MSP-EXP430FR4133 LaunchPad** is now available for immediate delivery, helping developers quickly evaluate FRAM, LCD, and EnergyTrace technologies. Sample availability for the **MSP430FR4x MCU with LCD support** is also open. Volume production of the **MSP430FR4x/FR2x** series will begin in November, with options in 48 to 64-pin LQFP and TSSOP packages.
Whether you're designing a smart thermostat or a portable medical device, the **MSP430FR4x** family provides the perfect blend of performance, power efficiency, and flexibility to bring your ideas to life.
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