MSP430F2012IN 16-Bit Low-Power Microcontroller, 14-Pin PDIP

MSP430F2012IN Overview

The MSP430F2012IN is an ultra-low-power, 16-bit microcontroller optimized for simple, cost-sensitive embedded controls. It combines a single 16-bit RISC core, a compact non-volatile memory footprint and basic peripheral integration to deliver tighter BOM cost and lower run-time power than many 8-bit alternatives. Typical uses benefit from several I/O lines, a 16-bit timer and a universal serial interface for basic serial buses. For datasheets, ordering and certified distribution refer to IC Manufacturer.

MSP430F2012IN Technical Specifications

MSP430F2012IN Key Features

• Single 16-bit RISC core delivering more computational throughput per clock than many 8-bit controllers.
• Low-voltage operation from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, enabling longer battery life and compatibility with common battery chemistries.
• Compact non-volatile storage (2 kB) plus 128 bytes of SRAM for small control and measurement tasks with fewer external components.
• Integrated 16-bit Timer_A offering precise timing and capture/compare channels for PWM, event timing, and interval measurement.
• Universal Serial Interface (USI) for SPI or I2C, simplifying serial peripheral connections and reducing external bridge logic.
• Standardized debug support with JTAG and Spy-Bi-Wire to speed firmware development and troubleshooting in production.
• 16 general-purpose I/O pins split across two ports for simple sensor, switch and actuator interfacing without extra expanders.
• Commercial temperature rating to support a wide range of industrial and consumer environments.

Typical Applications

• Battery-powered sensor nodes where low sleep current and a 1.8?C3.6 V supply extend run time and reduce maintenance cycles for deployed systems.
• Simple industrial controls requiring deterministic timing, small program memory and a reliable 16-bit timer for event sequencing or PWM motor control.
• Handheld consumer devices that need a compact microcontroller with SPI/I2C bus masters for displays, EEPROMs and peripheral sensors.
• Embedded metering and control modules that benefit from a small Flash footprint, integrated watchdog and standard debug interfaces for field service.

MSP430F2012IN Advantages vs Typical Alternatives

The device offers a 16-bit core and a wider voltage range, giving more headroom than many 8-bit MCUs when handling arithmetic or timing-critical tasks. With 2 kB Flash and 128 bytes RAM it balances functionality and cost better than larger, higher-pin solutions in simple designs. Integrated timer, USI and debug interfaces reduce external parts and development time, producing a lower-cost, lower-power solution for basic embedded controls.

MSP430F2012IN Brand Info

The MSP430F2012IN is produced under the MSP430 family brand from Texas Instruments. The MSP430 line focuses on ultra-low-power 16-bit microcontrollers for embedded and battery-powered applications, backed by TI??s global distribution, reference designs and software support.

FAQ

What programming interfaces are supported?

The device supports standard debug and programming through JTAG and the two-wire Spy-Bi-Wire interface. These interfaces enable in-circuit programming and debugging during development and production.

What supply voltage is required?

It operates across a low-voltage range of 1.8 V to 3.6 V, which allows direct operation from common single-cell battery sources and standard 3.3 V rail systems without level shifters.

How many I/O pins are available?

There are 16 general-purpose digital I/O lines divided between two ports. These can be used for GPIO, peripheral signals, and simple sensor or switch interfacing without extra expanders.

Which serial protocols can it handle?

The on-chip Universal Serial Interface (USI) supports SPI and I2C modes, enabling direct connection to many sensors, memory devices and peripheral ICs using two or three wires.

Is it suitable for battery-powered designs?

Yes. The MSP430 family emphasizes ultra-low-power operation and the device??s low-voltage range, sleep modes and small memory footprint make it well suited to battery-powered sensor nodes and handheld controls.