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Microchip Technology MCP1256-E/MF
- Part No.:
- MCP1256-E/MF
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- 10-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP1256-E/MF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CHG PUMP 3.3V 100MA 10DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:120
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Product details
Overview
MCP1256-E/MF from Microchip Technology is a 10-pin DFN-packaged, inductorless 1.5x/2x charge pump DC/DC converter generating a regulated 3.3V output from 1.8V–3.6V input. It delivers up to 100 mA output current, maintains ±3.0% output voltage accuracy, features power-good (PGOOD) indication, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for battery-powered microcontroller biasing.
For engineers reviewing the MCP1256-E/MF datasheet, MCP1256-E/MF pinout, MCP1256-E/MF application, or MCP1256-E/MF equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated package mapping (3 mm × 3 mm DFN), confirmed SLEEP/SHDN/PGOOD pin behavior, thermal shutdown specs, and real-world ripple performance under load.
Technical Context
The MCP1256-E/MF uses switched-capacitor topology with automatic 1.5x/2x mode selection based on input-output voltage ratio, enabling high efficiency (up to 84.5%) at VIN = 1.8V/2.0V and IOUT = 10–50 mA. Its internal 650 kHz oscillator avoids IF band interference and supports ceramic flying capacitors (C1/C2 = 1 µF).
It integrates soft-start (175 µs wake-up), open-drain PGOOD with 7% undervoltage detection and 3% hysteresis, active-low SLEEP mode reducing quiescent current to 10–20 µA while maintaining regulation, and shutdown mode drawing only 0.25 µA typical. Thermal shutdown activates at 160°C with 15°C hysteresis.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 3.3V - enables direct biasing of 3.3V logic and PIC® MCUs without external feedback. |
| Input Voltage Range | 1.8V to 3.6V - supports 2-cell alkaline/Ni-MH batteries and single Li-MnO₂ coin cells. |
| Max Output Current | 100 mA at VIN ≥ 2.2V - sufficient for MCU core + peripherals in portable instrumentation. |
| Output Ripple | 20 mVPP at 100 mA - meets low-noise requirements for analog sensors and RTCs. |
| Switching Frequency | 650 kHz - allows compact ceramic filtering and avoids AM radio/IF interference bands. |
| Accuracy | ±3.0% over –40°C to +125°C - ensures reliable operation in automotive and industrial environments. |
| SLEEP Quiescent Current | 10–20 µA - extends battery life in intermittently active systems like home automation sensors. |
| Shutdown Current | 0.25 µA typical - enables ultra-low-power system sleep states. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 10-lead, 3 mm × 3 mm DFN (exposed pad), RoHS-compliant, thermal resistance θJA = 57°C/W on 4-layer board.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (PGOOD) | Open-drain power-good indicator | Asserts low when VOUT falls >7% below 3.3V; used for system reset or enable sequencing. |
| 2 (SLEEP) | Active-low SLEEP mode control | Pulls low to reduce IQ to 10–20 µA while maintaining regulated 3.3V output. |
| 3 (C2–) | Flying capacitor negative terminal | Connects to 1 µF ceramic C2; forms charge-transfer path in 1.5x/2x pumping stages. |
| 4 (C1+) | Flying capacitor positive terminal | Connects to 1 µF ceramic C1; critical for charge transfer efficiency and max output current. |
| 5 (VOUT) | Regulated 3.3V output | Requires ≥2.2 µF ceramic bypass; supplies MCU core, ADC, or interface logic. |
| 6 (C2+) | Flying capacitor positive terminal | Completes second flying cap path; paired with Pin 3 (C2–) for dual-capacitor charge pump. |
| 7 (VIN) | Input supply (1.8–3.6V) | Must be bypassed with ≥1 µF ceramic; accepts battery or low-voltage rail with minimal ESR. |
| 8 (C1–) | Flying capacitor negative terminal | Paired with Pin 4 (C1+) to form first flying capacitor; determines charge injection strength. |
| 9 (GND) | Ground reference | Low-impedance return for flying caps, input/output caps, and internal switching paths. |
| 10 (SHDN) | Active-low shutdown control | Pulls low to disable oscillator/switches; reduces IQ to 0.25 µA and places PGOOD in high-Z. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Inductorless charge pump | Eliminates magnetic EMI and PCB area overhead; enables ultra-thin portable designs. |
| Auto-switching 1.5x/2x mode | Optimizes efficiency across input range: 1.5x at VIN > 2.2V, 2x at lower VIN - no external mode selection needed. |
| Integrated soft-start | 175 µs controlled ramp-up prevents inrush current damage to input source and output caps. |
| Thermal + short-circuit protection | Shuts down at 160°C (15°C hysteresis); limits short-circuit current to 150 mA - ensures robust field reliability. |
| Small ceramic capacitor support | Uses only four 0805/0603 ceramics (CIN, COUT, C1, C2); simplifies BOM and improves long-term stability vs. electrolytics. |
| Wide temperature operation | Specified from –40°C to +125°C junction - suitable for under-hood automotive and industrial edge nodes. |
Applications
| PIC® MCU Bias Supply | Portable Measurement Instrument |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering 3.3V PIC® microcontrollers in handheld multimeters or data loggers powered by two AA alkaline cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Regulated 3.3V bias generator with PGOOD monitoring for safe MCU startup and brown-out detection. Use Value: Enables reliable operation down to 1.8V input; SLEEP mode extends battery life during measurement standby. | Use Scenario: Providing clean, low-ripple 3.3V supply to precision ADCs and analog front-ends in portable oscilloscopes or environmental sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise DC/DC converter with 20 mVPP ripple at full load - preserves signal integrity for 12-bit+ measurements. Use Value: Eliminates inductor-induced EMI that would corrupt sensitive analog acquisition paths. |
| Home Automation Sensor Node | Real-Time Clock (RTC) Backup |
Use Scenario: Powering wireless sensor nodes (Zigbee/Z-Wave) operating from coin-cell batteries with multi-year runtime requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Ultra-low-quiescent DC/DC converter with 0.25 µA shutdown and 10–20 µA SLEEP current. Use Value: Delivers regulated 3.3V during active sensing while minimizing average current draw over duty-cycled operation. | Use Scenario: Maintaining stable 3.3V bias for RTCs and SRAM in battery-backed systems during main power loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Regulated charge pump with PGOOD flag confirming valid VOUT before enabling timekeeping functions. Use Value: Ensures RTC accuracy and data retention even as primary battery voltage decays from 3.6V to 1.8V. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar charge pump DC/DC converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP1257-E/MF | Replaces PGOOD with LBO (low-battery output); identical SLEEP mode and pinout. | LBO alerts host MCU of falling VIN; unsuitable where power-good sequencing is required. | Select when battery voltage monitoring is prioritized over output regulation status. |
| TPS60403DBVR | 3.3V fixed-output, 60 mA max, 1.6V–5.5V input; no SLEEP mode; 1.2 MHz switching. | Lower output current and no low-power SLEEP mode; higher frequency may increase EMI filtering complexity. | Select for wider input range and smaller solution size where <60 mA load suffices and SLEEP is unnecessary. |
Compared with MCP1257-E/MF, MCP1256-E/MF provides system-level power-good signaling instead of input monitoring; compared with TPS60403DBVR, it offers higher output current, integrated SLEEP mode, and lower switching frequency for reduced EMI - making it optimal for battery-constrained, regulation-critical MCU biasing.
Availability
MCP1256-E/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable measurement instruments, home automation sensor nodes, and PIC® MCU biasing requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MCP1256-E/MF 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
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona.
The MCP1256-E/MF belongs to Microchip's charge pump DC/DC converter family, designed specifically for low-EMI, inductorless voltage boosting in space-constrained, battery-powered applications such as portable instrumentation and microcontroller subsystems.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current capability of the MCP1256-E/MF and under what conditions?
The MCP1256-E/MF delivers up to 100 mA output current when the input voltage is ≥2.2V. At lower inputs (1.8V–2.0V), max output drops to 30 mA; at 2.0V–2.2V, it is 70 mA. This stepped current rating reflects charge pump efficiency limits and is specified across –40°C to +125°C. The MCP1256-E/MF maintains regulation within ±3.0% throughout this range.
How does the SLEEP mode function in the MCP1256-E/MF and what is its impact on output ripple?
The MCP1256-E/MF enters SLEEP mode when the SLEEP pin is pulled low, reducing quiescent current to 10–20 µA while maintaining regulated 3.3V output. In this mode, regulation uses bang-bang control, increasing output ripple to 40–60 mVPP (vs. 20 mVPP in normal mode) due to pulse-skipping operation - a trade-off for extended battery life in intermittent-use applications.
What is the role of the PGOOD pin on the MCP1256-E/MF and how should it be interfaced?
The PGOOD pin on the MCP1256-E/MF is an open-drain output that asserts low when VOUT falls >7% below 3.3V (i.e., <3.07V), with 3% hysteresis for recovery. It must be pulled up externally (10 kΩ–1 MΩ to VOUT) to generate a logic-high signal during regulation. PGOOD goes high-impedance during SHDN or if the device is unpowered, making it ideal for MCU reset or power sequencing circuits.
Which external capacitors are required for stable operation of the MCP1256-E/MF and what are their minimum values?
The MCP1256-E/MF requires four ceramic capacitors: CIN (≥10 µF, low-ESR), COUT (≥10 µF, low-ESR), and two flying capacitors C1 and C2 (each ≥1 µF). CIN stabilizes VIN; COUT sets output ripple and transient response; C1/C2 directly determine charge transfer strength and max output current. Using smaller values degrades ripple, efficiency, and current capability - especially below 1 µF for C1/C2.
Does the MCP1256-E/MF include protection features, and if so, what types and thresholds are implemented?
Yes, the MCP1256-E/MF integrates thermal shutdown (activates at 160°C, 15°C hysteresis), short-circuit protection (limits output current to 150 mA typical), and soft-start (175 µs typical wake-up). These features prevent damage during overload, overtemperature, or inrush events. All protections operate autonomously without external components and are fully characterized across –40°C to +125°C.
MCP1256-E/MF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Charge Pump
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 1.8V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 3.6V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 3.3V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Current - Output:
- 100mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 650kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 10-DFN (3x3)
MCP1256-E/MF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP1256-E/MF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP1256-E/MF on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MCP1256-E/MF reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP1256-E/MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP1256-E/MF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP1256-E/MF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP1256-E/MF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP1256-E/MF?
MCP1256-E/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP1256-E/MF order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MCP1256-E/MF?
For technical support, including MCP1256-E/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP1256-E/MF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP1256-E/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP1256-E/MF products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MCP1256-E/MF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP1256-E/MF?
All MCP1256-E/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP1256-E/MF, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MCP1256-E/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP1256-E/MF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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