The Texas Instruments MSP430 family of ultra-low-power microcontrollers consist of several devices featuring different sets of peripherals targeted for various applications. The architecture, combined with five low-power modes is optimized to achieve extended battery life in portable measurement applications. The device features a powerful 16-bit RISC CPU, 16-bit registers, and constant generators that contribute to maximum code efficiency. The digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) allows wake-up from low-power modes to active mode in less than 1 µs.

The MSP430F20xx series is an ultra-low-power mixed signal microcontroller with a built-in 16-bit timer and ten I/O pins. In addition, the MSP430F20x1 has a versatile analog comparator. The MSP430F20x2 and MSP430F20x3 have built-in communication capability using synchronous protocols (SPI or I2C) and a 10-bit A/D converter (MSP430F20x2) or a 16-bit sigma-delta A/D converter (MSP430F20x3).

Typical applications include sensor systems that capture analog signals, convert them to digital values, and then process the data for display or for transmission to a host system. Stand alone RF sensor front end is another area of application.