DALLAS, May 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ushering in a new era
of reliable data logging and RF communication capabilities, Texas
Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today announced the
industry's first ultra-low-power ferroelectric random access memory
(FRAM) 16-bit microcontrollers. Further demonstrating TI's embedded
processing leadership, the new MSP430FR57xx FRAM series ensures
data can be written more than 100 times faster and uses as little
as 250 times less power than flash- and EEPROM-based
microcontrollers. Additionally, the on-chip FRAM allows data
retention in all power modes, supports more than 100 trillion write
cycles, and delivers a new dimension of flexibility by allowing
developers to partition data and programming memory with changes in
software. The FR57xx series eliminates existing power consumption
and write endurance barriers, enabling developers to make the world
smarter with more cost-efficient data logging, remote sensing and
wireless update capabilities in new products that do more and last
longer. For more information on TI's new FR57xx microcontrollers
with proven FRAM memory, go to www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-lp.
Key features and benefits of the MSP430FR57xx FRAM
microcontrollers
- Reduces the industry's best active power by up to 50 percent
when executing code from FRAM, operating at 100uA/MHz in active
mode and 3 uA in real-time clock mode
- More than 100 trillion write cycle endurance supports
continuous data logging, eliminating need for costly external
EEPROM and battery-backed SRAM
- Unified memory allows developers to easily change memory
partitioning between program, data and cache in software, providing
inventory management and system cost savings
- Guaranteed write and data retention in all power modes ensure
code safety to simplify the development process, reduce memory test
costs and increase end-product reliability
- Enables reliable remote software upgrades – especially over the
air – to provide cheaper, easier software upgrade paths for device
manufacturers
- Integrated FRAM densities up to 16kB as well as analog and
connectivity peripheral options, including 10-bit ADC, 32-bit
hardware multiplier, up to five 16-bit timers and multiple enhanced
SPI/I2C/UART buses
- Code compatibility across MSP platform as well as low-cost,
easy-to-use tools, comprehensive documentation, user guide and code
examples allow developers to get started immediately
- Simplify system development with broad compatible RF tools from
TI
- Enables intelligent batteryless RF connectivity solutions
- FR57XX MCUs are built on TI's advanced low power, 130nm
embedded FRAM process
Pricing and availability
The new MSP430FR57xx microcontrollers start at $1.20 at 10K units, and samples and tools are
immediately available. The MSP-EXP430FR5739 Experimenter's Kit is
$29 and can be ordered at
www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-ek-es and the MSP-TS430RHA40A Development Kit
is $99 and can be ordered at
www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-dk-es.
New MSP platform includes MSP430™ microcontrollers
TI is committed to delivering new, revolutionary solutions to
support customers' dynamic needs, and MSP430FR57xx FRAM
microcontrollers are just one great example of that commitment. To
make room for many innovations to come, TI is evolving the MSP430
family to now be part of the new MSP platform.
TI's broad portfolio of MCUs and software
From general purpose, ultra-low power MSP430 MCUs, to Stellaris®
Cortex™-M3-based 32-bit MCUs and high performance, real-time
control TMS320C2000™ 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 global technical support.
TI's Technology Development
TI's innovative technology development enables differentiation
of TI's broad portfolio and high volume of products across our
global manufacturing sites by:
- developing new cost-effective process platforms with
step-function increases in power, performance, precision, and
cost
- extending process technologies with new components, models and
reduced costs
- conducting research on innovative, disruptive technologies for
new markets and new products
For more information on TI's technology development and
manufacturing, go to www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-manuf.
Find out more about TI's MSP430FR57xx MCUs by visiting the
links below:
- MSP430FR57xx MCUs: www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-lp
- MSP43057xx product folder: www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-pf
- MSP430FR57xx tools: www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-tf
- FRAM whitepaper: www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-mc
- MSP43FR57xx video overview: www.ti.com/fr57xx-pr-v
- Make the Switch to TI MCUs: 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 is a registered trademark of Texas Instruments. All
registered trademarks and other trademarks belong to their
respective owners.
TXN-P
SOURCE Texas Instruments Incorporated