MSP430G2231IPW14 16-bit Low-Power Microcontroller (TSSOP-14)

MSP430G2231IPW14 Overview

The MSP430G2231IPW14 is an ultra-low-power, 16-bit microcontroller optimized for simple embedded control and battery-powered designs. It combines a compact 14-pin package with a single 16-bit RISC CPU core, on-chip nonvolatile memory, and a focused set of peripherals for timing, analog comparison, and serial interface. The device is suitable for cost-sensitive applications that need lower supply current, fewer external components, and predictable wake/sleep behavior. For sourcing and component information see IC Manufacturer.

MSP430G2231IPW14 Technical Specifications

MSP430G2231IPW14 Key Features

• Single 16-bit CPU core delivers more computational throughput than 8-bit controllers while keeping code compact and efficient.
• On-chip 2 KB Flash and 128 B RAM enable simple program storage and runtime data without external memory, reducing BOM and board area.
• Integrated 16-bit Timer_A offers precise timing and capture/compare for PWM, pulse measurement, and real-time control tasks.
• Universal Serial Interface (USI) provides flexibility for SPI, I2C, or UART protocols, reducing the need for external converters.
• Comparator_A gives basic analog threshold detection for low-pin-count sensor interfaces and power management decisions.
• Ultra-low-power modes cut idle current dramatically, enabling longer battery life compared with many 8-bit alternatives.
• PDIP-14 packaging simplifies prototyping and through-hole assembly for both development and legacy production lines.

Typical Applications

• Low-power battery-operated sensors and data loggers where long battery life and simple control logic are required, minimizing power draw between events.
• Portable medical instruments that need reliable timing, simple analog threshold detection, and minimized component count for low-cost devices.
• Smart metering front-ends and utility monitors that require cost-effective control, timing, and serial interfacing with host systems.
• Consumer appliance controllers and remote controllers where a small code footprint, robust wake/sleep transitions, and through-hole prototyping matter.

MSP430G2231IPW14 Advantages vs Typical Alternatives

The device offers a strong combination of low operating current and a 16-bit instruction set, which yields better numerical performance and denser code than many 8-bit chips. With integrated 2 KB Flash and comparator plus a USI peripheral, it reduces the need for external components and lowers total system cost. The PDIP-14 package also makes it easier to prototype and replace older through-hole parts while maintaining lower power consumption than larger MCUs.

MSP430G2231IPW14 Brand Info

The MSP430G2231IPW14 is produced by Texas Instruments, a global semiconductor company known for reliable analog and embedded processing products. TI positions this part within the MSP430 value line for cost-sensitive, ultra-low-power microcontroller applications, supporting extensive ecosystem resources and development tools.

FAQ

What is the primary use case?

The part is designed for low-power embedded control and sensor interfacing. It is ideal where minimal peripheral count, long battery life, and compact firmware are more important than high-end processing or large memory.

Which serial protocols are supported?

The on-chip Universal Serial Interface (USI) can be configured to support common serial modes such as SPI, I2C, or UART-style bit-banged communications, enabling flexible host and peripheral connections.

Does it include an ADC?

This device provides a hardware analog comparator (Comparator_A) for threshold detection and analog event signaling; a dedicated multi-channel ADC is not part of this specific variant.

Is the package through-hole friendly?

Yes. The IPW14 suffix indicates a 14-pin PDIP package that is compatible with through-hole assembly, easing breadboarding, prototyping, and drop-in replacement in legacy socketed designs.

What are the power supply limits?

The MCU operates across a low-voltage range that supports common battery chemistries and low-voltage systems. Designers should remain within the specified 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply window for correct operation and data retention.