TI introduces affordable, sub-1 GHz wireless connectivity for ultra-low-power MSP430 LaunchPad development kit

The RF BoosterPack and MSP430 LaunchPad offer developers affordable solutions for cost-sensitive sub-1 GHz RF applications such as remote controls, toys, home and building automation, and security systems. The 430BOOST-CC110L is available today for $19, and the MSP430 LaunchPad is separately available for $4.30. For more information, see www.ti.com/rfboosterpack-preu.

“We are excited to bring wireless connectivity to the more than 100,000 MSP430 LaunchPads in the market today, and provide a simple, cost-effective development platform for those looking to innovate wireless products with MSP430 microcontrollers,” said Erling Simensen, product marketing manager, Low-Power RF, TI. “By combining TI’s leading ultra-low-power MSP430 microcontrollers with our sub-1 GHz RF value line transceivers, we are delivering easy-to-use, affordable and scalable solutions to wirelessly connect more cost-sensitive consumer applications.”

Additionally, the RF module included on the RF BoosterPack is separately available as an ETSI-compliant and FCC-certified production-ready module. The A110LR09A RF module is available from TI third party developer Anaren, Inc., and can be tested using the 430BOOST-CC110L development tool.

Key features and benefits: TI’s sub-1 GHz RF BoosterPack
• Easily add sub-1 GHz wireless connectivity to MSP430 LaunchPad (MSP-EXP430G2)
o RF BoosterPack contains two plug-in-boards with RF modules integrating TI’s CC110L sub-1 GHz RF value line transceiver, passive components and compact PCB antenna
o CD with software and documentation
o Easy to use wireless software stack (AIR BoosterStack from Anaren) makes it easy for developers to add RF to any system
• Reduce development costs
o Sub-$30 total cost for complete RF BoosterPack development environment: One 430BOOST-CC110L RF BoosterPack ($19) and two MSP430 LaunchPads ($4.30 each)
o ETSI-compliant and FCC-certified solution eliminates costly intentional radiator certification process
o No RF hardware design required, designer can add module as an embedded PCB component
o Free software development tools for writing, debugging and compiling code on MSP430 value line devices
• Leverage the products’ scalability
o Operation in the 868 and 915 MHz bands
o Programs developed on MSP430 LaunchPad can be migrated to higher-end MSP430 devices
o Production-ready CC110L-based A110LR09A module available separately from TI third party developer Anaren, Inc.

Tools, availability and pricing
The 430BOOST-CC110L sub-1 GHz RF value line BoosterPack is available today from TI and through authorized distributors for $19. The module included on the BoosterPack is available as a stand-alone product from Anaren through their authorized distributors. The MSP430 microcontroller value line LaunchPad development kit is available today for $4.30 from TI and authorized distributors.