Microchip Technology MCP16252T-I/MNY

Overview

MCP16252T-I/MNY from Microchip Technology is a low-voltage, synchronous step-up DC-DC converter with input-to-output bypass shutdown mode, 0.35 V minimum operating input voltage, 1.23 V feedback reference, 500 kHz PWM switching frequency, and 650 mA typical peak switch current - enabling efficient power conversion in single-cell alkaline/NiMH and Li-ion–powered portable sensors and wearables.

For engineers reviewing the MCP16252T-I/MNY datasheet, MCP16252T-I/MNY pinout, MCP16252T-I/MNY application, or MCP16252T-I/MNY equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed package mapping to TDFN-8 (2×3×0.8 mm), real-world efficiency curves at 3.3 V/5.0 V outputs, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative boost regulators for battery-powered systems requiring <1 µA shutdown current and true input-to-output conduction path.

Technical Context

The MCP16252T-I/MNY implements automatic PFM/PWM mode transition to sustain >90% efficiency from 1 mA to 225 mA load across 1.8–5.5 V adjustable output range. Its integrated N-channel boost switch (0.45 Ω R_DS(ON)) and P-channel synchronous rectifier (0.9 Ω R_DS(ON)) operate under adaptive slope-compensated peak-current control with 500 kHz nominal switching frequency.

This device supports input-to-output bypass during shutdown via internal P-channel MOSFET - delivering <0.6 µA shutdown current while maintaining continuity between VIN and VOUTP/VOUTS - distinct from MCP16251's true disconnect architecture. Thermal shutdown triggers at 160°C with 20°C hysteresis, and soft-start time is 1.5 ms typical.

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 numbering follows Microchip DS20005173B, pin 1 = VFB, pin 2 = SGND, pin 3 = PGND, pin 4 = EN, pin 5 = SW, pin 6 = VOUTP, pin 7 = VOUTS, pin 8 = VIN. EP must be soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS61200DRCT and ADP5070ACPZ-R7, the MCP16252T-I/MNY uniquely combines adjustable output, input-to-output bypass shutdown, and 0.35 V operating input - making it the only option among the three capable of sustaining regulated 3.3 V from a single exhausted alkaline cell while drawing <1 µA in standby.

Availability

MCP16252T-I/MNY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, portable medical monitors, solar-powered remotes, and smart home occupancy sensors requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MCP16252T-I/MNY 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 is a U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs for embedded, automotive, and industrial markets.

The MCP16252T-I/MNY belongs to Microchip's low-quiescent-current synchronous boost regulator product line, designed specifically for energy-constrained battery and energy-harvesting applications demanding ultra-low shutdown current and sub-1 V start-up capability.

FAQ

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

The MCP16252T-I/MNY implements input-to-output bypass shutdown: when EN is pulled low, its internal P-channel MOSFET connects VIN directly to VOUTP/VOUTS, maintaining continuity with <0.6 µA current draw. In contrast, the MCP16251 provides true output disconnect - completely isolating VOUT from VIN during shutdown. This makes MCP16252T-I/MNY ideal for systems requiring standby power retention on the output rail, whereas MCP16251 suits applications needing complete output isolation.

Can MCP16252T-I/MNY operate from a single NiMH cell at end-of-discharge?

Yes. The MCP16252T-I/MNY operates down to 0.35 V input after start-up and starts reliably at 0.82 V with a 1 mA resistive load - well within the 0.9–1.0 V range of a depleted single NiMH cell. Real-world non-resistive loads (e.g., MCU with sleep mode) allow start-up as low as 0.65 V, confirmed in Figure 2-14 of DS20005173B. Its low R_DS(ON) switches and synchronous rectification sustain usable output current even at these voltages.

What is the purpose of separate SGND and PGND pins in the TDFN package?

The MCP16252T-I/MNY separates signal ground (SGND) and power ground (PGND) to isolate sensitive analog circuitry - including the error amplifier and feedback reference - from high-current switching noise generated by the N-channel boost switch. Though internally unconnected, both pins must be tied together externally on the PCB ground plane, ideally near the EP pad, to maintain low-impedance return paths while minimizing coupling of switching transients into regulation circuitry.

How does the PFM/PWM transition affect output ripple in MCP16252T-I/MNY?

In PFM mode, the MCP16252T-I/MNY exhibits higher output ripple (150 mV typical peak-to-peak) with variable frequency behavior dependent on load and input voltage, as the controller pulses intermittently to maintain regulation. In contrast, PWM mode delivers lower, fixed-frequency ripple (<50 mV typical) at 500 kHz. The transition threshold is load-dependent and documented in Figure 2-17 - e.g., ~25 mA at 3.3 V_OUT/1.5 V_IN. Designers must size output capacitance accordingly for PFM-dominated operation.

Is external compensation required for stable operation of MCP16252T-I/MNY?

No. The MCP16252T-I/MNY integrates full Type-II compensation, including error amplifier, compensation capacitor, and slope compensation circuitry. No external components are needed for stability across its full operating range (0.35–5.5 V input, 1.8–5.5 V output, 100 µA–225 mA load). This eliminates layout sensitivity and reduces BOM count - a key differentiator versus discrete-compensated boost controllers requiring careful RC network tuning.