Main Menu  Home  Why MSP430?  SW-(re)sources  Projects  Topics  Links  WIKI        Subtopics  Hobbyists  USB  CAN   Topics for Hobbyists Supply voltage The MSP430 is not specified for 5V usage. This may be a substantial drawback for many hobbyists. Two issues are relevant with this respect. • usage in a 5V environment For applications which are realized within 5V applications, use the controller with the highest possible supply voltage. 3.6V are recommended. The absolute maximum rating is specified at 4.1V, so one may consider to run the MSP430 with 3.9V when the supply is absolutely accurate and stable within 4% all-in. However, in most applications, this is not necessary, since most transition levels of 5V devices are without any doubt compatible with MSP340 logic outputs when powered with 3.6V. Conversely, when 5V TTL or CMOS signals shall be input to a MSP430 port, a series resistance must be used to prevent latch-up or excess input current. • low voltage regulators Today, it might still be a problem to obtain fixed low voltage regulators in electronic shops. Especially, low drop regulators may be a problem. But the same applies to the MSP430 itself. Shops which have MSP430 controllers in stock should also provide low voltage regulators. For the case of problems in obtaining fixed voltage regulators, use variable regulators. SMD-packaging SMD-packaging is a problem when prototyping is an issue. Professional designers have arranged with this fact. Today, PCB layouts are a necessary step in creating prototypes. Designers might add sufficient test points in order to allow for measuring with oscilloscopes and logic analyzers. For mixed technology designs resp. prototypes, adapter sockets which provide SO-xx footprints and convert via a small PCB to DIP are available. This is the way to go for hobbyists. At this point problems in availability may arise. Therefore, below some potential vendors are listed. Regarding MSP430, hobbyists will normally not use packages Beyond SO-28. These packages have 1,27mm pitch and can be soldered on DIP adapters without difficulties. Vendors delivering to end-users MSP430-family http://www.sander-electronic.de/be00003.html (Germany). MSP chips are offered at quite reasonable prices. http://www.elektronikladen.de/prod-msp430.html (Germany). MSP chips and development tools. http://www.reichelt.de/ (Germany). MSP chips and evalboards SO-DIP-adapters (several, but most of the products are quite expensive) MSP430 w/adapter http://www.olimex.com/dev/msp_left.htm (Bulgaria). A UK distributor of these products: Taylec. Elektronikladen also provides Olimex products. Please help in extending this table! Please send any proposals.