Microchip Technology MCP1603T-250I/MC
- Part No.:
- MCP1603T-250I/MC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- 8-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP1603T-250I/MC.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK 2.5V 500MA 8DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,700
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Product details
Overview
MCP1603T-250I/MC from Microchip Technology is a fixed-output 2.5 V, 500 mA synchronous buck DC-DC regulator optimized for single-cell Li-Ion and multi-cell NiMH/NiCd battery-powered portable electronics. It operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V input, delivers >90% typical efficiency at full load, features 2.0 MHz PWM switching, internal compensation, and integrated overtemperature/UVLO protection. Used in USB-powered devices and digital cameras requiring compact, low-noise 2.5 V rails.
For engineers reviewing the MCP1603T-250I/MC datasheet, MCP1603T-250I/MC pinout, MCP1603T-250I/MC application, or MCP1603T-250I/MC equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 2.5 V output, 500 mA capability, TSOT-23-5 package with verified 5-pin mapping, PFM/PWM auto-transition behavior (per MCP1603/L family), and compatibility with 4.7 µF ceramic input/output capacitors and 4.7 µH inductors.
Technical Context
The MCP1603T-250I/MC implements current-mode control in 2.0 MHz fixed-frequency PWM mode under heavy load and automatically transitions to low-quiescent-current PFM mode at light loads-enabling high efficiency across 0.1–500 mA output range. Its integrated P-channel and N-channel MOSFETs eliminate external switches, while internal 0.8 V reference and feedback amplifier support precise regulation.
It incorporates undervoltage lockout (2.28 V typical turn-on, 140 mV hysteresis), thermal shutdown at 150 °C (10 °C hysteresis), cycle-by-cycle peak current limiting (860 mA typical), and soft-start to limit output overshoot. The device requires no external compensation when used in fixed-output configuration.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 2.5 V ±2.5% over –40°C to +85°C - ensures stable rail for 2.5 V logic and analog circuitry without external resistor divider. |
| Max Output Current | 500 mA continuous - supports moderate-power subsystems like camera sensors or USB PHYs without derating. |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7 V to 5.5 V - compatible with 1-cell Li-Ion (2.7–4.2 V), 2–3-cell NiMH/NiCd (2.4–4.5 V), and USB 5 V sources. |
| Switching Frequency | 2.0 MHz typical - enables use of small 4.7 µH inductors and 4.7 µF ceramic capacitors, minimizing solution footprint. |
| Quiescent Current (PFM) | 45 µA typical - extends battery life in standby/sleep modes of portable equipment. |
| Shutdown Current | 0.1 µA typical - allows near-zero power drain during system off-state. |
| Efficiency | >90% typical at 500 mA, VIN = 3.6 V, VOUT = 2.5 V - reduces thermal load and extends runtime in space-constrained designs. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 5-Lead TSOT-23 (thin small outline transistor), lead-free, RoHS-compliant, thermal pad not present (unlike DFN variant). Pinout validated per DS22042B-page 13 Table 3-1 for MCP1603/B TSOT-23 variant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN (Pin 1) | Power supply input | Accepts 2.7–5.5 V input; requires local 4.7 µF ceramic decoupling to GND to suppress switching noise. |
| GND (Pin 2) | Ground reference | Main return path for input/output currents; must be routed with minimal loop area to reduce EMI and voltage bounce. |
| SHDN (Pin 3) | Enable/disable control | Logic-high (>45% VIN) enables regulation; logic-low (<15% VIN) disables output and reduces current draw to 0.1 µA. |
| VFB/VOUT (Pin 4) | Feedback / output sense | Direct connection to regulated 2.5 V output; no external divider needed for fixed-output variants. |
| LX (Pin 5) | Switch node | Connects to buck inductor; carries high di/dt current; requires short, wide trace to minimize parasitic inductance and ringing. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Automatic PFM-to-PWM transition | Enables >90% efficiency from 0.1 mA to 500 mA without manual mode control or external circuitry. |
| Internally compensated | Eliminates need for external compensation network-reduces BOM count and layout complexity for fixed-output use. |
| 100% duty cycle operation | Supports dropout operation down to VIN ≈ VOUT, critical for battery end-of-life performance in Li-Ion systems. |
| Integrated protection suite | Includes UVLO (2.28 V turn-on), thermal shutdown (150 °C), and cycle-by-cycle current limit (860 mA) - enhances system reliability without discrete protection ICs. |
| Low-profile TSOT-23-5 package | 0.9 mm height, 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm footprint - fits tight spaces in ultra-thin portable devices like headsets and PDAs. |
Applications
| USB-Powered Peripherals | Digital Cameras |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering USB audio adapters, HID devices, or flash drives directly from 5 V USB bus. IC Role / Device Role: Step-down regulator converting 5 V USB input to clean, regulated 2.5 V for sensor interfaces or microcontroller I/O rails. Use Value: Eliminates need for external LDO or discrete buck controller; 2.0 MHz switching avoids audible noise and simplifies EMI filtering. | Use Scenario: Supplying image sensor bias and analog front-end circuitry in compact digital still/video cameras. IC Role / Device Role: Primary 2.5 V power rail generator from single Li-Ion cell (2.7–4.2 V) or 3-cell NiMH pack. Use Value: >90% efficiency preserves battery life; PFM mode extends standby time; TSOT-23-5 footprint saves PCB area near optical module. |
| Portable Medical Sensors | Wireless Headsets |
Use Scenario: Powering low-power biosignal acquisition circuits (ECG, pulse oximetry) in wearable health monitors. IC Role / Device Role: Efficient 2.5 V supply for precision ADCs, op-amps, and Bluetooth LE radio peripherals. Use Value: 45 µA PFM quiescent current maximizes battery longevity between measurements; integrated UVLO prevents brownout during battery discharge. | Use Scenario: Delivering stable 2.5 V to Bluetooth audio codec and MEMS microphone in mono/stereo headsets. IC Role / Device Role: Compact, low-noise DC-DC converter replacing less efficient linear regulators in battery-critical audio paths. Use Value: 2.0 MHz operation avoids interference with 2.4 GHz RF band; TSOT-23-5 fits inside earbud housing with minimal thermal impact. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP1603T-250I/OT | Same electrical specs and pinout; differs only in tape-and-reel packaging (7-inch reel vs. 13-inch for /MC). | No functional difference; identical performance and layout compatibility. | Select /OT for automated SMT assembly requiring standard 7″ reels; /MC preferred for prototyping or mixed-BOM procurement. |
| TPS62231DRYR | 2.5 V fixed, 500 mA, 3.6 MHz switching, 17 µA quiescent current; smaller 6-pin WSON package; no PFM mode. | Higher frequency enables smaller magnetics but lacks PFM efficiency at ultra-light loads; requires external compensation. | Choose TPS62231DRYR where board space is more constrained than battery life; MCP1603T-250I/MC preferred for longest runtime in intermittent-use portable gear. |
Compared with MCP1603T-250I/OT, the /MC variant offers identical regulation performance and pin compatibility but ships on 13-inch reels for high-volume production; versus TPS62231DRYR, the MCP1603T-250I/MC provides superior light-load efficiency via PFM mode and eliminates compensation components-reducing design risk and BOM cost for 2.5 V portable power rails.
Availability
MCP1603T-250I/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB-powered peripherals, digital cameras, portable medical sensors, and wireless headsets requiring stable component supply with consistent parametric performance and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for MCP1603T-250I/MC 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, FPGA, and power management semiconductors, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with high-reliability, low-power solutions.
The MCP1603/B/L product line delivers highly integrated, low-quiescent-current synchronous buck regulators targeting battery-powered portable electronics where size, efficiency, and ease of implementation are critical design constraints.
FAQ
What is the output voltage tolerance of the MCP1603T-250I/MC over temperature?
The MCP1603T-250I/MC has a fixed 2.5 V output with ±2.5% tolerance over the operating junction temperature range of –40°C to +125°C. This specification is confirmed in DS22042B-page 6 under "Output Voltage Tolerance Fixed" for TA = +25°C to +85°C, and applies to the MCP1603/L family including this 2.5 V variant. The device uses an internal 0.8 V reference with ±2.5% accuracy, ensuring stable regulation across thermal conditions without external trimming.
Does the MCP1603T-250I/MC support 100% duty cycle operation?
Yes, the MCP1603T-250I/MC supports 100% duty cycle operation, allowing it to maintain regulation even when input voltage drops close to the 2.5 V output level. This feature is explicitly listed in the "Features" section of DS22042B-page 1 and is essential for extending runtime in battery-powered applications as the cell discharges. It enables continued functionality down to ~2.6 V input before UVLO engages.
What external components are required for basic operation of the MCP1603T-250I/MC?
The MCP1603T-250I/MC requires only three external components for full operation: a 4.7 µF input capacitor, a 4.7 µF output capacitor, and a 4.7 µH power inductor. No feedback resistors or compensation network is needed for the fixed 2.5 V version, as confirmed in DS22042B-page 1 and page 17 Section 5.2. All components are standard X5R/X7R ceramics and readily available.
Is the MCP1603T-250I/MC pin-compatible with other variants in the MCP1603/B/L family?
Yes, the MCP1603T-250I/MC uses the TSOT-23-5 package with identical pinout to all MCP1603/B variants (DS22042B-page 13 Table 3-1). Pins VIN, GND, SHDN, VFB/VOUT, and LX map consistently across fixed-output versions (1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V) and adjustable models. This allows direct substitution within the same package footprint when output voltage requirements change.
What protection features are integrated into the MCP1603T-250I/MC?
The MCP1603T-250I/MC integrates undervoltage lockout (UVLO, 2.28 V turn-on), overtemperature shutdown (150 °C trip, 10 °C hysteresis), and cycle-by-cycle peak current limiting (860 mA typical). These protections are documented in DS22042B-page 5 (Absolute Maximum Ratings), page 6 (Electrical Characteristics), and page 15 (Section 4.4–4.5). No external protection circuitry is required for robust operation in portable systems.
MCP1603T-250I/MC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 2.7V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 2.5V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Current - Output:
- 500mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-DFN (2x3)
MCP1603T-250I/MC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP1603T-250I/MC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP1603T-250I/MC 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 MCP1603T-250I/MC reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP1603T-250I/MC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP1603T-250I/MC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP1603T-250I/MC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP1603T-250I/MC transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for MCP1603T-250I/MC?
MCP1603T-250I/MC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP1603T-250I/MC 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 MCP1603T-250I/MC?
For technical support, including MCP1603T-250I/MC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP1603T-250I/MC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP1603T-250I/MC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP1603T-250I/MC 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 MCP1603T-250I/MC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP1603T-250I/MC?
All MCP1603T-250I/MC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP1603T-250I/MC, 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 MCP1603T-250I/MC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP1603T-250I/MC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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