Microchip Technology MCP1256T-E/MF
- Part No.:
- MCP1256T-E/MF
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- 10-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP1256T-E/MF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CHG PUMP 3.3V 100MA 10DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,352
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MCP1256T-E/MF 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, with ±3.0% output accuracy, 100 mA max output current, and 650 kHz fixed switching frequency. It serves as a low-noise, compact bias supply for PIC® MCUs and portable instrumentation.
For engineers reviewing the MCP1256T-E/MF datasheet, MCP1256T-E/MF pinout, MCP1256T-E/MF application, or MCP1256T-E/MF equivalent, key selection criteria include its SLEEP mode quiescent current (10 µA typ), PGOOD open-drain output, thermal shutdown threshold (160°C), soft-start timing (175 µs), and compatibility with ceramic flying capacitors (1 µF).
Technical Context
The MCP1256T-E/MF employs a switched-capacitor architecture with automatic 1.5x/2x mode selection based on input voltage and load to maximize efficiency-reaching 84.5% at VIN = 1.8V, IOUT = 10 mA. Its regulation uses a feedback amplifier with bandgap reference and bang-bang control during SLEEP mode.
It integrates dedicated logic for three operational states: normal boost (650 kHz oscillator active), SLEEP mode (pulse-skipping with regulated 3.3V output and increased ripple), and shutdown (0.25 µA IQ). The PGOOD pin monitors VOUT regulation with 7% dropout detection and 3% hysteresis, remaining high-impedance when SHDN is asserted.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 3.3V ±3.0% - ensures stable MCU core/bias rail without external feedback components. |
| Input Voltage Range | 1.8V to 3.6V - supports single Li-MnO₂ coin cells or two alkaline/NiMH cells directly. |
| Max Output Current | 100 mA at VIN ≥ 2.2V - sufficient for biasing multiple low-power peripherals or a PIC MCU with analog peripherals active. |
| Switching Frequency | 650 kHz (fixed) - enables compact ceramic capacitor filtering and avoids sensitive IF bands. |
| SLEEP Mode IQ | 10 µA typical - extends battery life in intermittently active systems while maintaining regulated 3.3V output. |
| PGOOD Threshold | Detects VOUT falling below 93% of nominal (≈3.07V) - provides reliable power-fail signaling for system reset or state save. |
| Thermal Shutdown | 160°C with 15°C hysteresis - protects against sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design without latch-up. |
| Output Ripple | 20 mVPP at 100 mA - meets noise-sensitive analog sensor or RF front-end bias requirements with standard 10 µF COUT. |
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 | Signals regulation status; requires external pull-up to VOUT; high-Z when SHDN = low. |
| 2 (SLEEP) | Active-low SLEEP mode enable | Logic low enters pulse-skipping regulation mode; maintains 3.3V output with higher ripple and 10 µA IQ. |
| 3 (C2−) | Flying capacitor negative terminal | Connects to 1 µF ceramic capacitor (C2); part of charge-transfer path in 1.5x/2x pumping cycle. |
| 4 (C1+) | Flying capacitor positive terminal | Connects to 1 µF ceramic capacitor (C1); forms dual flying cap network with C2 for efficient charge transfer. |
| 5 (VOUT) | Regulated 3.3V output | Delivers up to 100 mA; bypass with ≥10 µF ceramic capacitor to minimize ripple and support transient loads. |
| 6 (C2+) | Flying capacitor positive terminal | Completes second flying cap leg; switching between series/parallel configuration enables 1.5x vs. 2x boost modes. |
| 7 (VIN) | Main power input | Accepts 1.8V–3.6V; bypass with ≥10 µF ceramic capacitor near pin to suppress high-frequency switching noise. |
| 8 (C1−) | Flying capacitor negative terminal | Paired with C1+; critical for charge storage and transfer timing; layout symmetry minimizes EMI. |
| 9 (GND) | Power and signal reference | Must be low-inductance connection to PCB ground plane; ties all internal circuitry and flying cap return paths. |
| 10 (SHDN) | Active-low shutdown control | Drives device into 0.25 µA quiescent state; compatible with 1.8V logic; disables oscillator, PGOOD, and all switching. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Inductorless charge pump topology | Eliminates magnetic EMI and board space for inductors-ideal for compact, noise-sensitive portable designs. |
| Auto-switching 1.5x/2x boost modes | Optimizes efficiency across input range (e.g., 84.5% at 1.8V/10mA); no external mode selection required. |
| SLEEP mode with regulated output | Maintains 3.3V bias at 10 µA IQ-enables long idle periods in battery-powered sensors or meters without brownout. |
| Integrated soft-start and protection | 175 µs wake-up time + foldback short-circuit limit (150 mA typ) + thermal shutdown prevent inrush damage and thermal runaway. |
| Wide temperature operation | Specified from −40°C to +125°C junction-suitable for automotive cabin, industrial, and outdoor embedded applications. |
| Small DFN package | 3 mm × 3 mm footprint with exposed thermal pad reduces PCB area by >40% vs. MSOP, improving power density. |
Applications
| PIC® MCU Bias Supply | Portable Measurement Instrument |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering a PIC16F or PIC18F microcontroller from a single CR2032 coin cell in a handheld multimeter. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides clean, regulated 3.3V VDD rail with PGOOD signaling to ensure firmware executes only after stable voltage is established. Use Value: Enables full MCU functionality-including ADC, UART, and LCD driver-at ultra-low standby current, extending battery life beyond 2 years. | Use Scenario: Supplying analog front-end (AFE) and precision reference in a portable pH meter or dissolved oxygen sensor. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Delivers low-noise 3.3V bias with <20 mVPP ripple to op-amps and 24-bit sigma-delta ADC, avoiding measurement drift. Use Value: Maintains ±0.01 pH accuracy over temperature by eliminating switching-induced offset in analog signal chain. |
| Home Automation Sensor Node | Pager Power Management |
Use Scenario: Powering Zigbee or BLE SoC + environmental sensors (temp/humidity/pressure) in a battery-operated smart thermostat. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Supplies regulated 3.3V during active radio transmission and enters SLEEP mode during 99% idle time to conserve energy. Use Value: Achieves 5-year battery life using two AA cells by reducing average system current to sub-µA levels during sleep cycles. | Use Scenario: Providing primary bias for legacy pager ICs and LED display drivers operating from two NiMH cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Generates stable 3.3V rail with fast wake-up (<200 µs) to support burst-mode paging reception and display updates. Use Value: Meets tight 100 ms response window for alert notifications while sustaining >1 week runtime per charge. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP1256T-E/MS | Same electrical specs and pinout, but in 10-pin MSOP package (θJA = 200°C/W vs. 57°C/W). | Less suitable for thermally constrained layouts or high ambient temperature environments due to higher thermal resistance. | Select MCP1256T-E/MS only if MSOP footprint is required for legacy board compatibility or hand-soldering preference. |
| TPS60403DBVR | 3.3V fixed-output charge pump (1.5x/2x), but lacks PGOOD and SLEEP mode; IQ = 120 µA in shutdown, no thermal shutdown. | Cannot provide regulated bias during low-power sleep or power-fail warning; limited for safety-critical or long-life battery apps. | Choose TPS60403DBVR only for cost-sensitive, non-critical applications where PGOOD and thermal protection are not required. |
Compared with MCP1256T-E/MS, the MCP1256T-E/MF offers superior thermal performance and smaller footprint; compared with TPS60403DBVR, it adds essential reliability features-PGOOD monitoring, SLEEP mode, and thermal shutdown-critical for robust portable designs.
Availability
MCP1256T-E/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable measurement instruments, home automation sensor nodes, and PIC® MCU bias applications requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MCP1256T-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 interface ICs, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The MCP1256T-E/MF belongs to Microchip's charge pump DC/DC converter product line, designed specifically for low-EMI, inductorless voltage boosting in space-constrained, battery-powered systems such as medical sensors and portable instrumentation.
FAQ
What is the function of the SLEEP pin on the MCP1256T-E/MF?
The SLEEP pin on the MCP1256T-E/MF is an active-low input that places the device into SLEEP mode when driven low. In this mode, the MCP1256T-E/MF maintains regulated 3.3V output while reducing quiescent current to 10 µA (typical), enabling extended battery life in intermittently active systems. SLEEP mode uses pulse-skipping regulation, resulting in higher output voltage ripple-up to 60 mVPP-but preserves MCU or sensor bias integrity without requiring full shutdown and restart.
Does the MCP1256T-E/MF require external inductors?
No, the MCP1256T-E/MF does not require external inductors. It uses a switched-capacitor (charge pump) architecture with two 1 µF ceramic flying capacitors (C1 and C2) and input/output bypass capacitors. This inductorless design eliminates magnetic EMI, reduces solution size, and simplifies layout-making the MCP1256T-E/MF ideal for compact, noise-sensitive applications like portable medical devices and handheld test equipment.
How does the PGOOD output behave during startup and fault conditions for the MCP1256T-E/MF?
The PGOOD output on the MCP1256T-E/MF is an open-drain signal that goes high-impedance when VOUT reaches regulation (within 3% of 3.3V) and remains high-Z until VOUT drops below 93% of nominal (≈3.07V). During startup, PGOOD transitions from high-Z to pulled-low only after VOUT stabilizes-providing a reliable power-good indication. If SHDN is asserted, PGOOD returns to high-Z immediately. Glitch immunity prevents false triggering for transients shorter than 200 µs.
What is the maximum output current capability of the MCP1256T-E/MF across its input voltage range?
The MCP1256T-E/MF delivers up to 100 mA output current when VIN ≥ 2.2V, 70 mA when VIN is 2.0V–2.2V, and 30 mA when VIN is 1.8V–2.0V. This stepped current capability reflects charge pump efficiency dependence on input voltage headroom. At VIN = 2.4V and IOUT = 100 mA, efficiency is 67.5%; at VIN = 3.0V and same load, it improves to 71.6%. Designers must verify load current versus VIN in their specific application to ensure regulation margin.
Can the MCP1256T-E/MF operate reliably at +125°C junction temperature?
Yes, the MCP1256T-E/MF is fully specified and characterized over a junction temperature range of −40°C to +125°C. It incorporates thermal shutdown that activates at 160°C (with 15°C hysteresis), protecting the device during overload or poor thermal design. When used within recommended PCB layout guidelines-including proper thermal pad soldering and copper pour-the MCP1256T-E/MF sustains continuous operation at +125°C ambient in typical applications such as automotive cabin sensors or industrial controllers.
MCP1256T-E/MF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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)
MCP1256T-E/MF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP1256T-E/MF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP1256T-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 MCP1256T-E/MF reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP1256T-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 MCP1256T-E/MF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP1256T-E/MF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP1256T-E/MF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP1256T-E/MF?
MCP1256T-E/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP1256T-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 MCP1256T-E/MF?
For technical support, including MCP1256T-E/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP1256T-E/MF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP1256T-E/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP1256T-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 MCP1256T-E/MF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP1256T-E/MF?
All MCP1256T-E/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP1256T-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 MCP1256T-E/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP1256T-E/MF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MCP1256T-E/MF Tags

-
TPS562201DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
MC34063ABD-TR
STMicroelectronics

-
TPS561201DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
MC33063ADR
Texas Instruments

-
MC34063ADR
Texas Instruments
-
TPS560200DBVR
Texas Instruments

-
AP3012KTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated

-
TLV61048DBVR
Texas Instruments

-
AZ34063UMTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated

-
TPS562200DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
AP62300TWU-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
MC34063EBD-TR
STMicroelectronics
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

