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Microchip Technology MCP1256-E/UN
- Part No.:
- MCP1256-E/UN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP1256-E/UN.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CHARGE PUMP 3.3V 10MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,861
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Product details
Overview
MCP1256-E/UN from Microchip Technology is a 10-pin DFN-packaged, inductorless 1.5x/2x charge pump DC/DC converter delivering a regulated 3.3V output from 1.8V–3.6V input, supporting up to 100 mA load current with ±3.0% output accuracy and 20 mVPP ripple at full load - used for biasing PIC® MCUs and portable measurement instruments.
For engineers reviewing the MCP1256-E/UN datasheet, MCP1256-E/UN pinout, MCP1256-E/UN application, or MCP1256-E/UN equivalent, this page provides verified functional specifications, thermal shutdown behavior, SLEEP mode quiescent current (10–20 µA), PGOOD logic thresholds, and package-specific layout guidance for battery-powered designs.
Technical Context
The MCP1256-E/UN employs a switched-capacitor architecture with automatic 1.5x/2x mode selection based on input voltage and load, driven by a fixed 650 kHz oscillator. Its regulation uses feedback-controlled charge transfer across two flying capacitors (C1, C2) and maintains output stability via internal error amplifier and bandgap reference.
It integrates active-low SLEEP mode (reducing quiescent current to 10–20 µA while preserving regulation) and active-low SHDN mode (0.25 µA typical), plus open-drain PGOOD output asserting low when VOUT falls below 93% of nominal - all operating across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 3.3V ±3.0% - ensures stable MCU core/bias rail within industrial temperature range. |
| Input Voltage Range | 1.8V to 3.6V - supports 2-cell alkaline/Ni-MH or single Li-MnO₂ coin cell operation. |
| Max Output Current | 100 mA at VIN ≥ 2.2V - sufficient for biasing multiple low-power peripherals without external LDO. |
| Switching Frequency | 650 kHz fixed - enables compact ceramic filtering and avoids IF band interference. |
| Output Ripple | 20 mVPP at 100 mA load - meets noise-sensitive analog sensor and MCU I/O supply requirements. |
| SLEEP Mode IQ | 10–20 µA - extends battery life in intermittent-sensing applications like home automation nodes. |
| PGOOD Threshold | Falls at 93% VOUT (≈3.07V), recovers at 96% VOUT (≈3.17V) - provides reliable power-fail detection for system reset sequencing. |
| Thermal Shutdown | Triggers at 160°C with 15°C hysteresis - protects against sustained overload in sealed enclosures. |
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 drops below 93% nominal; requires external pull-up for logic-level signaling. |
| 2 (SLEEP) | Active-low SLEEP mode control | Pulls low to enter ultra-low-IQ regulation mode (10–20 µA); high-Z when inactive. |
| 3 (C2–) | Flying capacitor negative terminal | Connects to 1 µF ceramic capacitor (C2); forms charge-transfer path with C2+. |
| 4 (C1+) | Flying capacitor positive terminal | Connects to 1 µF ceramic capacitor (C1); pairs with C1– to store and deliver charge. |
| 5 (VOUT) | Regulated 3.3V output | Requires ≥2.2 µF ceramic bypass to GND; delivers up to 100 mA with <20 mVPP ripple. |
| 6 (C2+) | Flying capacitor positive terminal | Completes second flying capacitor (C2) path; critical for 1.5x/2x mode switching efficiency. |
| 7 (VIN) | Main input supply (1.8–3.6V) | Bypass with ≥10 µF ceramic capacitor to suppress high-frequency switching noise. |
| 8 (C1–) | Flying capacitor negative terminal | Completes first flying capacitor (C1) path; must be placed close to IC for minimal loop inductance. |
| 9 (GND) | Power and signal reference | Single-point ground connection; ties to exposed pad for optimal thermal performance. |
| 10 (SHDN) | Active-low shutdown control | Pulls low to disable oscillator, charge pumps, and logic; draws only 0.25 µA typical in shutdown. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Inductorless charge pump topology | Eliminates EMI-prone magnetics and reduces BOM count to four ceramic capacitors only. |
| Auto-switching 1.5x/2x boost modes | Optimizes efficiency across input range: >84% at VIN = 1.8V/2.0V, >76% at VIN = 2.4V/2.8V. |
| Integrated soft-start circuitry | Limits inrush current during startup; achieves 90% VOUT regulation in 175 µs typical. |
| Thermal + short-circuit protection | Foldback current limiting caps short-circuit current at 150 mA; thermal shutdown prevents die damage. |
| Low-voltage logic compatibility | SHDN and SLEEP inputs accept 1.8V logic thresholds (VIH ≥ 1.4V, VIL ≤ 0.4V), enabling direct interface with modern MCUs. |
| Wide temperature operation | Characterized from –40°C to +125°C junction temperature - suitable for automotive cabin and industrial sensor nodes. |
Applications
| PIC® MCU Bias Supply | Portable Measurement Instrument |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering 8-bit PIC microcontrollers in handheld multimeters or data loggers running from coin cells or AA batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides stable 3.3V bias rail with fast wake-up (<175 µs) and PGOOD monitoring for safe MCU boot. Use Value: Enables reliable operation down to 1.8V input while maintaining ±3% output accuracy and low 20 mVPP ripple for ADC reference stability. | Use Scenario: Supplying analog front-end and display drivers in portable gas detectors or environmental sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Delivers regulated 3.3V from variable battery sources with SLEEP mode activation between readings. Use Value: Extends battery life via 10–20 µA SLEEP current and eliminates inductor size/EMI concerns in compact enclosures. |
| Home Automation Node | Pager Power Management |
Use Scenario: Powering Zigbee or Sub-GHz wireless transceivers and microcontrollers in battery-operated smart switches or sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Supplies clean 3.3V rail with PGOOD signaling to coordinate radio transmit bursts and MCU sleep/wake cycles. Use Value: Supports burst-mode operation with <175 µs wake-up and maintains regulation during RF peak currents up to 100 mA. | Use Scenario: Providing regulated supply for legacy alphanumeric pagers using 2-cell alkaline batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as primary voltage booster with integrated PGOOD to validate power integrity before message decode. Use Value: Ensures consistent display contrast and decoder timing by holding 3.3V ±3% across declining battery voltage (1.8–3.6V). |
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/UN | Same package and pinout; replaces PGOOD with LBO (low-battery detect at 1.95V threshold). | Used where input battery monitoring is prioritized over output regulation status. | Select when system requires early warning of battery depletion rather than output fault detection. |
| TPS60403DBVR | 3.3V fixed-output, 60 mA max, 1 MHz switching, no SLEEP mode, different pinout (6-pin SOT-23). | Limited to lower-current applications; lacks thermal shutdown and PGOOD functionality. | Choose only for space-constrained, low-load designs where 100 mA capability and robust protection are not required. |
Compared with MCP1257-E/UN, MCP1256-E/UN provides output health monitoring instead of input monitoring; compared with TPS60403DBVR, it offers higher current, integrated protection, and SLEEP mode - making it superior for rugged, battery-life-critical 3.3V bias applications.
Availability
MCP1256-E/UN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable measurement instruments, home automation nodes, PIC® MCU bias supplies, and pager power management requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.
Supply support for MCP1256-E/UN 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 microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets.
The MCP1256-E/UN belongs to Microchip's charge pump DC/DC converter product line, designed specifically for compact, low-EMI, battery-powered systems needing regulated 3.3V from single- or dual-cell sources without inductors.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current supported by the MCP1256-E/UN under typical conditions?
The MCP1256-E/UN delivers up to 100 mA of continuous output current when the input voltage is ≥2.2V. At lower input voltages (1.8V–2.0V), the maximum rated output current drops to 30 mA, and at 2.0V–2.2V it is 70 mA - values confirmed in the DS21989B datasheet under DC CHARACTERISTICS. This stepped current capability ensures safe operation across the full 1.8V–3.6V input range while maintaining 3.3V regulation. The MCP1256-E/UN includes foldback short-circuit protection limiting peak current to 150 mA typical.
How does the SLEEP mode function in the MCP1256-E/UN, and what is its impact on output regulation?
In SLEEP mode, the MCP1256-E/UN reduces quiescent current to 10–20 µA while maintaining regulated 3.3V output via pulse-skipping control - trading increased output ripple (up to 60 mVPP) for extended battery life. Regulation remains active, but the error amplifier operates intermittently, causing ripple frequency to vary with load and output capacitance. The MCP1256-E/UN exits SLEEP mode automatically upon rising load demand. This behavior is distinct from shutdown and is documented in Section 4.4 and Figure 2-20 through 2-24 of DS21989B.
What is the purpose and electrical behavior of the PGOOD pin on the MCP1256-E/UN?
The PGOOD pin on the MCP1256-E/UN is an open-drain output that signals output regulation status: it remains high-impedance when VOUT is within specification, and pulls low when VOUT falls below 93% of nominal (≈3.07V), with 110 mV hysteresis for noise immunity. It asserts low for >200 µs only - rejecting brief transients - and returns high once VOUT rises above 96% (≈3.17V). A 10 kΩ–1 MΩ pull-up to VOUT is required for logic-level interfacing. This pin is absent on MCP1257/9 variants and disabled during SHDN or BYPASS modes.
Can the MCP1256-E/UN operate from a single lithium coin cell, and what input voltage range does it support?
Yes, the MCP1256-E/UN is explicitly designed to operate from a single primary lithium MnO₂ coin cell (nominal 3.0V, range ~2.0–3.6V) or two alkaline/Ni-MH cells (1.8–3.0V), supporting a total input range of 1.8V to 3.6V. Its 1.5x/2x auto-switching architecture maximizes efficiency across this span - e.g., achieving >84% at 1.8V input and >76% at 2.4V. The device remains fully functional down to 1.8V, with guaranteed 3.3V output accuracy and thermal protection active across the full –40°C to +125°C junction temperature range.
What are the key PCB layout recommendations for the MCP1256-E/UN to ensure stable operation?
Key layout practices for the MCP1256-E/UN include: placing all four external capacitors (CIN, COUT, C1, C2) as close as possible to their respective pins; using short, wide traces for high-current paths (especially C1/C2 loops); connecting the DFN's exposed thermal pad directly to a solid GND plane; routing VIN and VOUT away from sensitive analog traces; and avoiding splits in the GND plane beneath the IC. Ceramic capacitors must be low-ESR (≤0.1 Ω), with CIN/COUT ≥10 µF and flying capacitors ≥1 µF each. These guidelines minimize parasitic inductance and EMI, ensuring stable 650 kHz switching and low output ripple as validated in DS21989B Sections 5.2 and 6.0.
MCP1256-E/UN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- 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-MSOP
MCP1256-E/UN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP1256-E/UN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP1256-E/UN 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/UN reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP1256-E/UN 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/UN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP1256-E/UN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP1256-E/UN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP1256-E/UN?
MCP1256-E/UN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP1256-E/UN 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/UN?
For technical support, including MCP1256-E/UN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP1256-E/UN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP1256-E/UN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP1256-E/UN 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/UN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP1256-E/UN?
All MCP1256-E/UN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP1256-E/UN, 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/UN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP1256-E/UN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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