RoadTest: MSP-EXP430FR5739
Author: Ashleyvansteenacker
Creation date:
Evaluation Type: Evaluation Boards
Did you receive all parts the manufacturer stated would be included in the package?: True
What other parts do you consider comparable to this product?:
What were the biggest problems encountered?: Dos not work with mac osx.
Detailed Review:
About this 6 pin connector - it seems that TI guys made a mistake when packing contents. This isn't mentioned in description but thanks anyway - will find where to use it. MSP-EXP430FR5739 board layout As development board for such price MSP-EXP430FR5739 board has some valuable stuff on it. It is split in to three regions where first is dedicated to debugging and programming. There is a dedicated MSP430F1612 microcontroller used for this. It communicates to PC via USB. IT uses a dedicated serial to USB converter chip (TUSB3410). With proper Jumpers It also can be used for application USART communications. Probably the most interesting area is a development with many features. The center of this is MSP430FR5739 16-bit microcontroller with 16KB FRAM and 1KB of SRAM. Additionally there are: eight LEDs; MTC thermistor; 3 axis accelerometer; footprint for LDR resistor; pin connections two programmable buttons; reset switch. The third part of board is for connectivity. There are connectors for Wireless daughter cards (Ccxxxx RF) and connection to MSP-EXP430F5438 board which can also be used for prototyping if not used on purpose How FRAM works And in the end of this review lets see at a glance what is a FRAM (FeRAM) memory. It's so called Ferroelectric Random Access Memory which is nonvolatile. This means it retains its contents even if power is removed. FeRAM storage cell is similar to DRAM where capacitor and access transistor is used. But in FeRAM cell capacitor there is a ferroelectric material refereed as PZT (lead zirconate titanate) used. (http://www.ixbt.com/mainboard/feram-tech.shtml).
