Timer_B Operation

12.2.2 Starting the Timer

The timer may be started or restarted in the following ways:

-The timer counts when MCx > 0 and the clock source is active.

-When the timer mode is either up or up/down, the timer may be stopped by loading 0 to TBCL0. The timer may then be restarted by loading a nonzero value to TBCL0. In this scenario, the timer starts incrementing in the up direction from zero.

12.2.3Timer Mode Control

The timer has four modes of operation as described in Table 12−1: stop, up, continuous, and up/down. The operating mode is selected with the MCx bits.

Table 12−1.Timer Modes

MCx

Mode

Description

00

Stop

The timer is halted.

01

Up

The timer repeatedly counts from zero to the value of

 

 

compare register TBCL0.

10

Continuous

The timer repeatedly counts from zero to the value se-

 

 

lected by the TBCNTLx bits.

11

Up/down

The timer repeatedly counts from zero up to the value of

 

 

TBCL0 and then back down to zero.

Timer_B 12-5

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Texas Instruments MSP430x1xx manual Starting the Timer, 1.Timer Modes

MSP430x1xx specifications

The Texas Instruments MSP430x1xx series is a family of ultra-low-power microcontrollers that are highly regarded in the embedded systems community for their versatility and performance. Designed for applications ranging from portable instrumentation to low-power industrial devices, the MSP430x1xx combines flexibility and efficiency with advanced features tailored for energy-sensitive applications.

One of the standout characteristics of the MSP430x1xx is its ultra-low-power operation. This series offers several low-power modes that can significantly extend battery life in portable devices. The microcontroller can be in active mode, low-power mode, or even in a deep sleep state, allowing developers to optimize power consumption based on the application's requirements. In fact, some configurations can operate at just a few microamps, making it ideal for battery-operated devices.

Another key feature is the 16-bit RISC architecture that provides powerful processing capabilities while maintaining a low power profile. The MSP430x1xx series supports a maximum clock speed of 16 MHz, allowing for efficient task execution while consuming minimal energy. This architecture ensures that programs run smoothly while the microcontroller remains energy efficient.

The MSP430x1xx is equipped with various integrated peripherals, including analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), timers, and communication interfaces like UART, SPI, and I2C. The inclusion of a powerful ADC enables the microcontroller to handle sensor readings with high accuracy, making it suitable for applications like environmental monitoring and medical devices. The integrated timers provide essential functionality for real-time applications, allowing for event-driven programming and precise timing control.

Memory options in the MSP430x1xx series are also robust, with configurations offering flash memory sizes from 1 KB to 64 KB. This flexibility allows developers to choose the optimal memory size for their specific applications, accommodating a wide range of requirements.

Additionally, the MSP430x1xx microcontrollers are designed with a wide operating voltage range, typically from 1.8V to 3.6V, making them compatible with various power sources and further enhancing their usability in diverse applications.

In summary, the Texas Instruments MSP430x1xx series of microcontrollers is an excellent choice for developers seeking low-power, high-performance solutions for embedded applications. With an efficient architecture, a rich set of peripherals, and flexible memory options, these microcontrollers are positioned to meet the growing demands of modern electronic designs, particularly in battery-powered and energy-sensitive applications.