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 MSP430x21x1 series is an ultra-low-power mixed signal microcontroller with a built-in 16-bit timer, versatile analog comparator, and sixteen I/O pins. Typical applications include sensor systems that capture analog signals, convert themto 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. The analog comparator provides slope A/D conversion capability.