MSP430F123IPW 16-bit Low-Power Microcontroller (TSSOP, IPW)

MSP430F123IPW Overview

The MSP430F123IPW is an ultra-low-power, 16-bit microcontroller designed for cost-sensitive embedded control. It combines a low-power CPU with on-chip memory and compact peripheral sets to deliver more integration and lower board count than many 8-bit alternatives. Typical system-level benefits include lower active and standby power, fewer external components, and simpler firmware porting across MSP430 devices. For procurement and support, see IC Manufacturer.

MSP430F123IPW Technical Specifications

MSP430F123IPW Key Features

• One 16-bit RISC core: delivers efficient instruction throughput and compact code size versus many 8-bit parts.
• On-chip 2 KB Flash and 128 B RAM: reduces external memory needs and shortens BOM compared to discrete-memory solutions.
• Integrated 10-bit ADC: enables analog sensing without an external converter, lowering cost and board area.
• Low-voltage operation (1.8?C3.6 V): supports battery-powered designs and more flexible power-rail choices.

Typical Applications

• Battery-powered sensor nodes where ultra-low active and standby current extend operational life and reduce maintenance frequency for remote deployments.
• White goods control panels that need a small MCU with integrated ADC and timers for user interface, current sensing, and simple motor control.
• Portable measurement instruments requiring a compact MCU with a 10-bit ADC and low-voltage operation to balance accuracy and battery runtime.
• Cost-sensitive industrial controllers where fewer external components and robust temperature range (-40 ??C to +85 ??C) improve reliability and lower system cost.

MSP430F123IPW Advantages vs Typical Alternatives

The device offers a 16-bit processing advantage and tighter integration versus typical 8-bit MCUs, giving more computational headroom and simpler fixed-point math. With 2 KB of on-chip flash and a 10-bit ADC, it reduces external components compared to discrete MCU plus ADC combinations. The low-voltage range (1.8?C3.6 V) and small 20-pin package deliver a smaller PCB footprint and lower system-level power than many older 5 V designs. These attributes make it a better fit when cost, board space, and power are key constraints.

MSP430F123IPW Brand Info

The MSP430F123IPW is part of the MSP430 microcontroller family from Texas Instruments. TI positions this series for embedded, low-power applications and supplies extensive documentation, development tools, and long-term availability commitments to industrial and commercial customers.

FAQ

What core architecture is used?

The part uses a 16-bit RISC core optimized for code density and low-power operation. This architecture yields faster arithmetic and control than many 8-bit alternatives while keeping firmware size compact.

What supply voltages does it support?

The device supports a nominal supply range from 1.8 V up to 3.6 V. This range allows direct battery connection in single-cell systems and compatibility with common low-voltage logic rails.

How much nonvolatile memory is onboard?

It includes 2 KB of on-chip Flash memory for program code and nonvolatile storage. This capacity suits small to moderate firmware footprints and simplifies designs that would otherwise require external memory.

What analog capabilities does it provide?

A 10-bit analog-to-digital converter is integrated on-chip, enabling single-ended analog measurements for sensors, voltage monitors, and simple data-acquisition tasks without an external ADC.

Which package should I expect for prototyping?

The device is available in a 20-pin PDIP (IPW) package, which is convenient for through-hole prototyping and breadboard use while keeping the board area smaller than many multi-chip solutions.