MSP430F2121IDW 16-bit Low-Power Microcontroller, IDW Package

MSP430F2121IDW Overview

The MSP430F2121IDW is a low-power, 16-bit mixed-signal microcontroller designed for compact, battery-powered industrial and consumer systems. It combines a 16?bit RISC core and multiple integrated peripherals to reduce external components and board area. The device supports a wide supply range and several low?power modes to extend battery life. It is well suited to sensor front-ends, portable controls, and simple human-interface tasks where energy efficiency, small package size, and deterministic real-time timing are important. For official ordering and support, see IC Manufacturer.

MSP430F2121IDW Technical Specifications

MSP430F2121IDW Key Features

• One 16?bit RISC core with compact instruction set for efficient control and fast interrupt response.
• Wide 1.8?C3.6 V supply range to support more battery chemistries and tolerant systems designs.
• Multiple low?power modes that extend run time and reduce system average current in active and idle states.
• Small 14?pin package for higher board density and simpler layout in space?constrained applications.
• On?chip Timer_A for precise pulse generation, real-time scheduling, and power?aware timing control.
• Integrated watchdog and comparator to improve reliability and reduce external component count.

Typical Applications

• Battery-powered sensor nodes where ultra?low standby current and predictable wake intervals extend battery life for months to years.
• Simple motor or valve controllers that need deterministic timer control and modest code memory in a very small footprint.
• Portable handheld instruments where small package, low operating voltage, and mixed?signal peripherals reduce system cost.
• Human?machine interfaces with lightweight key scanning, indicator control, and low power consumption for portable devices.

MSP430F2121IDW Advantages vs Typical Alternatives

The device delivers a strong combination of low power and compact integration versus larger microcontrollers. It uses a 16?bit core to process control tasks with fewer cycles than 8?bit alternatives. The broad supply range and multiple low?power modes make it more energy efficient in battery and energy?harvesting applications. The small 14?pin package lowers BOM and board area compared with larger packages that require discrete support chips. Overall, it offers higher energy efficiency and simpler system integration for basic embedded control functions.

MSP430F2121IDW Brand Info

The MSP430 family is produced by Texas Instruments. This product line focuses on ultra?low power microcontrollers for battery?sensitive applications. The brand emphasizes long-term support, wide toolchain availability, and comprehensive documentation. Developers can access example code, development boards, and industry?standard compilers to speed evaluation and production.

FAQ

What core does it use?

The device uses a 16?bit RISC CPU core optimized for control tasks. This core balances computational capability and energy efficiency for embedded real?time applications.

What supply voltage is required?

It operates across a wide voltage range of 1.8 V to 3.6 V. That range supports common battery types and allows safe interfacing with low?voltage sensors and power rails.

How many low?power modes exist?

There are five low?power modes (LPM0 through LPM4). These modes let you trade CPU and peripheral activity for lower standby current to maximize battery life.

What package options are available?

The part is offered in a 14?pin TSSOP (DW) package that reduces PCB area and makes the device suitable for compact applications and high?density board designs.

Where can I find development resources?

Development tools, reference manuals, and application notes are available from the manufacturer??s support site. Use them for code examples, hardware schematics, and recommended layouts to accelerate product design.