DALLAS, Jan. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Offering developers more flexibility in electricity metering and energy monitoring applications, Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NASDAQ: [ TXN ]) today announced the MSP430F673x/F672x family of [ ultra-low-power 16-bit microcontrollers ]. TI's new devices guarantee no interruption of operation through a backup capable microcontroller supporting real-time clock (RTC) operation and power management from the main power supply and up to two separate auxiliary supplies. The 24 new F673x/F672x devices also achieve more precise measurements through an increased sampling rate and superior linearity over multiple operating conditions, such as current range and time, resulting in a stable system solution. These devices are TI's first [ 6xx series microcontrollers ] with integrated 24-bit sigma-deltas and a 320-segment LCD controller. Compared to the previous 160-segment solution, developers can leverage enhanced segmented LCDs with more programmability and enable more characters on displays, especially with Asian languages. As part of the MSP430™ microcontroller portfolio, the F673x/F672x devices are designed for ultra-low-power modes, ensuring the LCD display is consuming as little power as possible during operation. For more information, visit [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-430metering-pr-lp ].

MSP430F673x/F672x microcontrollers' tools and software for simplified development

TI's free [ MSP430 Energy Library ] is available to support metrology software on the new F673x/F672x devices, providing an easy startup for customers developing a utility meter product. Developers can test and experience accuracy results with the [ MSP430F6736 EVM ], a single-phase electricity meter as well as program and debug F673x/F672x devices with the [ MSP-TS430PZ100B ] target board and [ MSP-FET430U100B ] flash emulation tool.

Key features and benefits of the MSP430F673x/F672x family

Powerful 24-bit sigma-delta with programmable gain amplifier and less than 0.1 percent accuracy across a 2400:1 dynamic range enables the F673x/F672x family to meet class 0.1 meters and exceed IEC62053/ANSI C12.20
Sigma-delta converter offers independent channels for voltage, current and tamper detection, reducing energy measurement software development and security concerns
320-seg LCD driver, which enables segment and blinking control and dual display memory, can also run in 8-MUX mode to support multiple LCD devices
Real-time clock and calendar mode operates from separate voltage supply with programmable charger for accurate data logging and measurements with no loss of data
Ultra-low power consumption at 1.4 µA in standby mode with ultra-fast wake up at less than 3 µs
[ MSP430 electricity metering selection tool ] provides an easy way for developers to find the right product for their applications.
Free [ MSP430 Energy Library ] supports metrology software measurements, such as voltage, energy and tamper detection

TI @ DistribuTECH 2012

Stop by booth 4735 to see the MSP430F6736 EVM as well as other TI demos and solutions. Be sure to follow [ @TXInstruments ] on Twitter for exclusive show updates and giveaways.

Pricing and availability

The MSP430F673x/F672x microcontrollers are immediately available, starting at $2.00 for 1K-units. The MSP-TS430PZ100B target board is available for $75 and the MSP-FET430U100B flash emulation tool is available for $149. Both can be ordered at TI's [ eStore ]. Please contact local sales representatives for additional details regarding the MSP430F6736 EVM.

TI's broad portfolio of microcontrollers (MCUs) and software

From general purpose, ultra-low power MSP430™ MCUs, to Stellaris® Cortex™-M MCUs to real-time control C2000™ MCUs, and Hercules™ safety MCUs, TI offers the broadest range of microcontroller solutions. Designers can accelerate time to market by tapping into TI's complete software and hardware tools, extensive third-party offerings and technical support.

Find out more about TI's MSP430F673x family by visiting the links below:

MSP430 metering: [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-430metering-pr-lp ]
MSP430F673x video overview: [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-pr-v ]
MSP430 Energy Library: [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-energylibrary-pr-tf ]
MSP430 Blog: [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-blog-pr-lp ]
Smart Grid E2E community: [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-smartgride2e-pr-lp ]
TI's Smart Grid solutions: [ www.ti.com/msp430f673x-smartgrid-pr-lp ]
Make the switch to TI microcontrollers: [ www.ti.com/maketheswitch ]

About Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments semiconductor innovations help 80,000 customers unlock the possibilities of the world as it could be – smarter, safer, greener, healthier and more fun. Our commitment to building a better future is ingrained in everything we do – from the responsible manufacturing of our semiconductors, to caring for our employees, to giving back inside our communities. This is just the beginning of our story. Learn more at [ www.ti.com ].

Trademarks

MSP430, C2000, Hercules are trademarks and Stellaris is a registered trademark of Texas Instruments. All registered trademarks and other trademarks belong to their respective owners.

SOURCE Texas Instruments

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