Microchip Technology MCP16252T-I/CH

Overview

MCP16252T-I/CH from Microchip Technology is a synchronous step-up DC-DC converter with input-to-output bypass shutdown mode, 500 kHz fixed-frequency PWM operation, 0.35 V minimum operating input voltage, 1.23 V feedback reference, and integrated N- and P-channel MOSFETs. It delivers up to 225 mA at 5.0 V output from 3.3 V input for portable battery-powered systems requiring ultra-low quiescent current.

For engineers reviewing the MCP16252T-I/CH datasheet, MCP16252T-I/CH pinout, MCP16252T-I/CH application, or MCP16252T-I/CH equivalent, key selection criteria include its true input-to-output bypass capability (not output disconnect), 0.6 µA shutdown current, 14 µA no-load input current, adjustable 1.8–5.5 V output, and TDFN-8 package thermal performance (θ_JA = 52.5°C/W).

Technical Context

The MCP16252T-I/CH implements automatic PFM/PWM mode switching: PWM operates at 500 kHz with fixed frequency and low ripple; PFM activates below load thresholds to reduce quiescent current to 1 µA during sleep periods. Its control loop uses lossless peak-current sensing with adaptive slope compensation and internal transconductance error amplifier with full compensation.

This device integrates dual MOSFETs - a 0.45 Ω N-channel boost switch and 0.9 Ω P-channel synchronous rectifier - enabling high efficiency (up to 96%) across wide input ranges (0.35–5.5 V) while supporting input-to-output bypass in shutdown via the P-channel FET, limiting bypass current to ≤400 mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TDFN-8 (2 mm × 3 mm × 0.8 mm) with exposed thermal pad (EP), rated θ_JA = 52.5°C/W. Pin functions validated per Microchip DS20005173B, pages 9–10.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous boost regulator applications.

Compared with TPS61201DRCT and MAX17222ELT+T, the MCP16252T-I/CH uniquely combines input-to-output bypass, 0.82 V start-up, and 52.5°C/W thermal resistance in TDFN-8 - making it optimal for space-constrained, multi-mode battery systems where rail continuity during standby is mandatory.

Availability

MCP16252T-I/CH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for solar energy harvesting, single-cell Li-ion portable instruments, alkaline/NiMH remote controls, Bluetooth headsets, and wireless sensor networks requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MCP16252T-I/CH 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, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.

The MCP16251/2 product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, wide-input-voltage boost conversion in battery-powered portable electronics - emphasizing start-up from depleted cells, minimal quiescent current, and flexible shutdown behavior.

FAQ

What is the key functional difference between MCP16252T-I/CH and MCP16251?

The MCP16252T-I/CH implements input-to-output bypass shutdown: when EN is low, the internal P-channel MOSFET connects VIN directly to VOUTP, maintaining output voltage without discharging the output capacitor. In contrast, the MCP16251 provides true output disconnect - isolating VOUT entirely from VIN during shutdown. This makes MCP16252T-I/CH ideal for systems requiring rail hold-up during standby, while MCP16251 suits applications needing complete output isolation.

Does MCP16252T-I/CH support adjustable output voltage, and what is the range?

Yes, MCP16252T-I/CH supports fully adjustable output voltage from 1.8 V to 5.5 V using an external resistor divider connected to the VFB pin. The internal feedback reference is tightly regulated at 1.23 V (±3% over temperature), enabling accurate output setting. High-value resistors are recommended to minimize quiescent current, though values below 1 MΩ are advised for operation below –20°C to avoid PCB leakage effects.

What is the minimum input voltage at which MCP16252T-I/CH can operate continuously after startup?

The MCP16252T-I/CH operates continuously down to 0.35 V input voltage after startup, provided the output load is ≤1 mA and the input source has low series impedance. This ultra-low operating threshold extends usable battery life far beyond conventional boost regulators, especially with NiMH or alkaline cells nearing end-of-discharge. Start-up itself requires ≥0.82 V (typ.) into a 1 mA resistive load.

How does the PFM/PWM mode transition work in MCP16252T-I/CH?

MCP16252T-I/CH automatically transitions between PWM and PFM modes based on output load. Above ~20–30 mA, it operates in fixed 500 kHz PWM for low ripple and stable frequency. Below that threshold, it enters PFM mode - pulsing intermittently to maintain regulation while drawing only ~1 µA from VIN during sleep periods. This preserves >90% efficiency even at microamp loads, critical for battery longevity in IoT endpoints.

What thermal considerations apply to MCP16252T-I/CH in the TDFN-8 package?

The MCP16252T-I/CH in TDFN-8 (2×3×0.8 mm) has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) of 52.5°C/W under standard JEDEC conditions. Effective thermal design requires soldering the exposed pad (EP) to a minimum 100 mm² copper pour connected to both SGND and PGND. Without proper pad thermal relief, junction temperature may exceed 125°C at full 225 mA load - triggering thermal shutdown at 160°C with 20°C hysteresis.