MCU-Based SCoC Takes On Tough Low-Power Applications

Taking center stage as the industry’s first ultra-low-power, MCU-based signal-chain-on-chip (SCoC), the MSP430F169 combines an eight-channel, 200 ksamples/s 12-bit a/d converter, two 12-bit d/a converters, and a programmable direct memory access controller (DMA). Designed for power- and space-sensitive applications, users can implement a complete closed loop system in low-power applications ranging from laser pump and thermoelectric cooler control to remote networked meter-reading installations. The device also integrates a clock system with five low-power modes. Typical standby current consumption is 1.6 µA with the real-time clock function active, and system clocking can be tuned to meet the power requirements of specific applications. An integrated digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) or external crystal can be used to clock the system at 280 µA per 1 MIPS. In addition, CPU start-up from standby is less than 6 µs, which is said to result in a total power consumption up to 10 times lower than comparable devices. Other features include 60 KB of flash memory, 2 KB of RAM, a watchdog timer, comparator, 10 channels of pulse width modulation, two USARTs, an I2C interface, a 16-bit hardware multiplier, and a supply voltage supervisor. In terms of development support, the MSP430F169 is compatible with the MSP-FET430P140 toolkits that support real-time, in-system development by accessing the flash device’s embedded emulation capability. Samples of the MSP430F169 will be available in the first quarter of 2003 and will be priced at $7.95 each/1,000. TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC., Santa Clara, CA. (800) 477-8924 ext 4500.