MSP430 Connections

MSP430 real time clock crystal

The MSP430 has a really cool function: most newer models have built-in capacitors to support a 32.768khz time keeping crystal used to implement a real-time-clock. See the diagram below that compares the stuff you need to keep time on an MSP430 (Q1) and a PIC (Q1, C1, C2). This is a huge time saver because routing a clean ground supply for external capacitors (C1 & C2) can be a pain.