Microchip Technology MCP16301T-E/CH

Overview

MCP16301T-E/CH from Microchip Technology is a high-efficiency, fixed-frequency, non-synchronous buck DC-DC converter in SOT-23-6 package, integrating a 460 mΩ N-channel high-side MOSFET and peak current mode control. It operates from 4.0V to 30V input, delivers up to 600 mA continuous output current, regulates output voltage from 2.0V to 15V with ±2% accuracy, and features 500 kHz switching frequency and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive use.

For engineers reviewing the MCP16301T-E/CH datasheet, MCP16301T-E/CH pinout, MCP16301T-E/CH application, or MCP16301T-E/CH equivalent, key selection considerations include its 460 mΩ integrated switch R_DS(ON), 0.800 V feedback reference, UVLO threshold of 3.5 V (rising), thermal shutdown at 150°C, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors in space-constrained industrial and automotive bias supply designs.

Technical Context

The MCP16301T-E/CH implements fixed-frequency (425–550 kHz) peak current mode control with internal slope compensation to prevent subharmonic oscillation above 50% duty cycle. Its architecture integrates an error amplifier, 0.800 V precision reference, soft-start circuitry, and overtemperature protection with 30°C hysteresis.

It uses a bootstrap-driven high-side N-MOSFET requiring external BOOST capacitor and Schottky freewheeling diode. The EN pin enables logic-level on/off control with 1.4 V VIH and 0.4 V VIL thresholds, while VFB senses output via resistor divider to maintain regulation across input transients and load steps up to 600 mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT-23-6 surface-mount package with exposed pad (thermal performance θ_JA = 190.5°C/W per JEDEC JESD51-3).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP2451DT-LF-Z and TPS562201, the MCP16301T-E/CH offers AEC-Q100 qualification, guaranteed 600 mA across 4–30 V input, and fully integrated compensation - making it optimal for space-limited, thermally constrained, and automotive-grade bias supply designs where external component count must be minimized.

Availability

MCP16301T-E/CH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PIC® microcontroller bias supply, 24V industrial DC-DC conversion, and SLA battery-powered devices requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and medical product lifecycles.

Supply support for MCP16301T-E/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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog, interface, and power management ICs, with strong focus on embedded control and automotive reliability.

The MCP16301/H product line is designed for high-input-voltage, space-constrained buck regulation in automotive, industrial, and consumer applications - emphasizing integration, thermal robustness, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current capability of the MCP16301T-E/CH across its full input voltage range?

The MCP16301T-E/CH guarantees 600 mA of continuous output current over its entire 4.0 V to 30 V input voltage range and across the full operating temperature range of –40°C to +125°C. At specific conditions - such as 3.3 V, 5 V, or 12 V output with +25°C ambient - it can deliver up to 1 A, but the rated continuous specification remains 600 mA for robust design margin. This value is confirmed in Figure 2-6 and the Electrical Characteristics table of the DS20005004E datasheet.

Does the MCP16301T-E/CH require external compensation components?

No, the MCP16301T-E/CH includes fully integrated compensation - both the transconductance error amplifier and slope compensation circuitry are built-in. This eliminates the need for external RC networks on the COMP or FB pins. Designers only need to select appropriate external inductor, input/output capacitors, feedback resistors, and boost capacitor to implement a complete solution with minimal BOM count.

What is the function of the BOOST pin on the MCP16301T-E/CH, and how is it connected?

The BOOST pin on the MCP16301T-E/CH supplies gate drive voltage to the internal high-side N-channel MOSFET. It must be connected via a 100 nF ceramic capacitor (C_BOOST) between BOOST and SW pins. During switch-off, the inductor current recharges C_BOOST through the external Schottky diode. For 3.3 V or 5 V outputs, the output voltage typically serves as the boost source; for other voltages, a Zener-based shunt or series regulator may be needed to maintain BOOST between 3.0 V and 5.5 V.

Is the MCP16301T-E/CH qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the MCP16301T-E/CH passes Automotive Electronics Council AEC-Q100 reliability testing (Grade 1, –40°C to +125°C junction temperature). This qualification covers accelerated stress tests including HTOL, TC, UHAST, and ESD (3 kV HBM), confirming suitability for under-hood and infotainment applications. The "T" suffix in MCP16301T-E/CH denotes tape-and-reel packaging compliant with automotive logistics standards.

How does the EN pin operate, and what are its voltage thresholds?

The EN pin on the MCP16301T-E/CH is a logic-level enable input with VIH = 1.4 V (minimum) and VIL = 0.4 V (maximum). Applying ≥1.4 V enables switching and normal regulation; ≤0.4 V disables the converter and reduces quiescent current to 7–10 µA. The pin must not be left floating - a pull-down resistor is recommended in disabled-state designs. Internal hysteresis ensures clean turn-on/turn-off behavior during slow-rising control signals.