The Texas Instruments MSP430 family of ultralow 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 attribute to maximum code efficiency. The digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) allows wake-up from low-power modes to active mode in less than 6s. The MSP430F42x series are microcontroller configurations with three independent 16-bit sigma-delta A/D converters, each with an integrated differential programmable gain amplifier input stage. Also included is a built-in 16-bit timer, 128 LCD segment drive capability, hardware multiplier and 14 I/O pins. Typical applications include high resolution applications such as handheld metering equipment, weigh scales and energy meters.