Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV1606-TF-00A

Overview

EV1606-TF-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is a 2A synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with 27μA quiescent current, 1.2V fixed output, and integrated 75mΩ/45mΩ MOSFETs. It operates from 2.5V–5.5V input, delivers ±1% output accuracy, and features Power Good (PG) signaling and Constant-On-Time control for fast transient response. It is used in low-power portable devices requiring ultra-low IQ and compact power delivery.

For engineers reviewing the EV1606-TF-00A datasheet, EV1606-TF-00A pinout, EV1606-TF-00A application, or EV1606-TF-00A equivalent, key selection criteria include its 27μA IQ, SOT563 footprint, 1.2V fixed output with PG, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and suitability for battery-powered I/O rails and SSD power sequencing.

Technical Context

The EV1606-TF-00A implements a Constant-On-Time (COT) control architecture that enables rapid load transient response without external compensation components. Its internal high-side and low-side MOSFETs (75mΩ and 45mΩ respectively) support up to 2A continuous output at 1.2V with minimal external parts.

It integrates cycle-by-cycle current limiting, thermal shutdown, output overvoltage protection (OVP), and output discharge functionality. The EN pin supports precise power sequencing, while the PG pin provides open-drain status indication synchronized to output regulation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

EV1606-TF-00A is housed in an ultra-small 6-pin SOT563 package (1.6mm × 1.6mm × 0.55mm), optimized for space-constrained portable designs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down converter applications.

Compared with MP1606GTF-12, EV1606-TF-00A is functionally identical but designated for evaluation use; versus TPS6286512RQYR, it delivers superior ease-of-use via COT control, PG, and output discharge-reducing component count and layout complexity by 30%.

Availability

EV1606-TF-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless networking cards, solid state drives (SSD), and battery-powered medical sensors requiring stable component supply, consistent evaluation board performance, and long-term design-in support.

Supply support for EV1606-TF-00A includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Monolithic Power Systems (MPS) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog and power ICs, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

The MP1606 product line delivers ultra-low-IQ, compact synchronous buck converters for space- and energy-constrained portable and IoT applications, emphasizing integration, reliability, and simplified system design.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the PG pin on EV1606-TF-00A?

The PG (Power Good) pin is an open-drain output that signals when the 1.2V output has stabilized within 90% of its target value. It must be pulled up to VIN via an external resistor (e.g., 100kΩ) and is used by host systems to coordinate power sequencing and ensure downstream logic receives valid supply before initialization.

Can EV1606-TF-00A operate with input voltage below 3.3V?

Yes, EV1606-TF-00A supports input voltages as low as 2.5V. However, the datasheet notes that VIN < 3.3V may require increased input capacitance (beyond the standard 22μF) to maintain stability under full 2A load due to higher peak input current and reduced headroom.

Does EV1606-TF-00A support adjustable output voltage?

No. EV1606-TF-00A is factory-configured for fixed 1.2V output. Adjustable versions (e.g., MP1606GTF-XX with different suffixes) exist but require separate part numbers; this variant has no external feedback pins and cannot be reconfigured.

What thermal performance can be expected in SOT563 package at 2A load?

At TA = +25°C, 5V input, and 1.2V/2A output, the EV1606-TF-00A junction temperature rise is approximately 45°C above ambient in typical 2-layer PCB layout with 1-in² copper pour. Thermal shutdown activates at ~150°C junction temperature, providing robust overtemperature protection.

Is output capacitor ESR critical for stability with EV1606-TF-00A?

No. Due to its Constant-On-Time control architecture, EV1606-TF-00A is inherently stable with low-ESR ceramic capacitors (e.g., X5R/X7R 22μF, 10V). Unlike voltage-mode regulators, it does not require minimum ESR or specific capacitor types for loop stability.

How does the hiccup-mode short-circuit protection behave?

Upon short-circuit detection, EV1606-TF-00A disables switching, waits ~500ms, then attempts soft restart. If the fault persists, it repeats the cycle. This limits average power dissipation to <150mW during sustained shorts, preventing thermal damage while enabling automatic recovery when fault clears.