MSP430G2553: Can the NC pins be tied to ground?

Hendrix

Part Number: MSP430G2553

I’m using the MSP430G2553IRHB32R (VQFN). Pins 8 & 32 are ‘not connected’ pins. Can I tie either of these to ground? This would make my layout easier.

over 4 years ago

0 Eddie LaCost over 4 years ago

TI__Mastermind 39220 points

Hello Hendrix,

As the datasheet does not indicate that these pins can be grounded, I would recommend these are left floating. I also found this TI Design that uses this package of the device and they are leaving these pins floating.

http://www.ti.com/tool/TIDA-00818

0 Hendrix over 4 years ago in reply to Eddie LaCost

TI__Intellectual 1610 points

Yes, I agree it would be best to leave them floating. However, in this case, I have a resistor that needs to be grounded but no place for a via. If I tie the NC pin to ground I can route a trace from the grounded thermal pad through the NC pin to the resistor.

Typically an NC pin is not connected internally, so I was hoping the design team could confirm this.

0 Eddie LaCost over 4 years ago in reply to Hendrix

TI__Mastermind 39220 points

Understood. I am checking with the design team to see if there is any potential issues terminating to ground. I will let you know what I hear back.

0 Eddie LaCost over 4 years ago in reply to Eddie LaCost

TI__Mastermind 39220 points

I have confirmed with the design team that these pins do not have any internal connection, so connecting to ground is okay.

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MSP430G2553: Can the NC pins be tied to ground?