Microchip Technology MCP1640B-I/MC
- Part No.:
- MCP1640B-I/MC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- 8-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP1640B-I/MC.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BOOST ADJ 350MA 8DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:375
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Product details
Overview
MCP1640B-I/MC from Microchip Technology is a synchronous step-up DC-DC converter optimized for ultra-low-voltage battery-powered systems. It delivers up to 350 mA output at 5.0V from 3.3V input, starts reliably at 0.65V (typical), operates down to 0.35V input post-startup, and features true load disconnect in shutdown with <1 µA current draw. It targets single-cell Li-ion, alkaline, and NiMH portable devices requiring regulated 2.0–5.5V outputs.
For engineers reviewing the MCP1640B-I/MC datasheet, MCP1640B-I/MC pinout, MCP1640B-I/MC application, or MCP1640B-I/MC equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated SOT-23-6 and DFN-8 package mappings, confirmed PWM-only operation at 500 kHz, exact feedback voltage (1.21 V), and real-world efficiency data across input/output combinations - all critical for low-power portable power design.
Technical Context
The MCP1640B-I/MC implements fixed-frequency peak-current-mode PWM control without PFM mode - unlike MCP1640/C - ensuring constant 500 kHz switching and lower output ripple under light loads. Its internal N-channel boost switch (0.6 Ω RDS(ON)) and synchronous P-channel rectifier (0.9 Ω RDS(ON)) enable high efficiency up to 96% while supporting true input-to-output isolation during shutdown via gate-controlled P-MOSFET disconnect.
It uses lossless current sensing with adaptive slope compensation, integrates soft-start (750 µs), overtemperature protection (150°C trip, 10°C hysteresis), and anti-ringing control to suppress switch-node oscillations. Feedback regulation relies on a precision 1.21 V reference with 10 pA bias current, enabling stable 2.0–5.5 V output adjustment using external resistors.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Start-up Voltage | 0.65 V typical - enables reliable startup from deeply discharged single-cell batteries (e.g., 0.8 V alkaline) |
| Operating Input Range | 0.35 V to ≤ VOUT (max 5.5 V) - supports operation down to near-dead battery voltage with 1 mA load |
| Switching Frequency | 500 kHz ±75 kHz - fixed PWM-only operation ensures predictable EMI profile and low ripple vs. PFM variants |
| Feedback Reference | 1.21 V ±0.035 V - sets output voltage accuracy (±3%) via external resistor divider; 10 pA bias minimizes divider error |
| Quiescent Current | 19 µA typical in PFM-off no-load state - enables multi-year battery life in always-on sensor nodes |
| Peak Switch Current | 850 mA typical - determines max deliverable output current (e.g., 350 mA @ 3.3VIN/5.0VOUT) |
| Shutdown Current | <1 µA - achieved by full gate turn-off of both N- and P-channel switches, enabling true load disconnect |
Pinout & Package
Available in 6-lead SOT-23 and 8-lead 2×3 mm DFN packages. The MCP1640B-I/MC is specified in the SOT-23 variant per Microchip's ordering code suffix "/MC" (SOT-23) and "/I" (Industrial temp grade). Exposed thermal pad (EP) in DFN requires PCB connection to ground for thermal performance; not present in SOT-23.
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Input Power Supply | Accepts 0.35–5.5 V; must be decoupled with ≥4.7 µF capacitor to PGND/SGND |
| GND | Signal Ground Return | Single ground pin in SOT-23; serves as return for error amplifier and bias circuits |
| SW | Switch Node | Connects to inductor; carries up to 800 mA peak current; internal node of N- and P-channel switches |
| EN | Enable Control Input | Logic-high (>90% VIN) enables regulation; logic-low (<20% VIN) forces true disconnect and <1 µA shutdown current |
| VOUT | Regulated Output Power | Delivers adjustable 2.0–5.5 V; connects to output capacitor and feedback divider top resistor |
| VFB | Feedback Sense Input | Monitors divided output voltage; regulates to 1.21 V reference; 10 pA input bias allows high-value dividers |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| True Load Disconnect | EN = low fully isolates VIN from VOUT by turning off both integrated MOSFETs - eliminates battery drain and prevents backfeed |
| PWM-Only Operation | No PFM mode; fixed 500 kHz switching ensures consistent EMI signature and lower output ripple vs. PFM-capable variants |
| Ultra-Low Start-Up Voltage | 0.65 V typical start-up enables use with single NiMH/alkaline cells before significant discharge |
| Integrated Synchronous Rectification | Eliminates external Schottky diode; 0.9 Ω P-channel RDS(ON) reduces conduction loss and improves efficiency >90% at mid-load |
| Internal Compensation | Full Type-II compensation network embedded - no external capacitors or resistors required for stability |
Applications
| Wireless Sensor Node | Medical Wearable |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered BLE temperature/humidity sensor operating from a single AA alkaline cell (0.9–1.5 V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Step-up regulator providing stable 3.3 V to MCU, radio, and sensor ICs during deep discharge. Use Value: Enables >2-year operation by starting at 0.65 V and drawing only 19 µA quiescent current when idle. | Use Scenario: Portable pulse oximeter powered by CR2032 coin cell (2.0–3.0 V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Generates regulated 3.3 V for analog front-end and digital controller from low-capacity source. Use Value: True disconnect in standby prevents battery leakage; 0.35 V minimum operating voltage extends usable cell life. |
| Handheld Instrument | GPS Receiver Module |
Use Scenario: Pocket multimeter using two AAA alkaline cells (1.8–3.0 V) powering LCD, ADC, and microcontroller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides precise 3.3 V rail independent of battery voltage sag during measurement bursts. Use Value: Fixed 500 kHz PWM ensures low-noise supply for sensitive analog measurements; ±3% VOUT accuracy maintains ADC reference integrity. | Use Scenario: Compact GPS tracker powered by single-cell Li-ion (3.0–4.2 V) supplying 5.0 V to GNSS module. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Boosts battery voltage to 5.0 V with minimal board space and heat generation. Use Value: 350 mA output capability at 3.3 VIN/5.0 VOUT meets peak GPS acquisition current; thermal pad option (DFN) manages 75 °C/W junction rise. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous boost converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP1640-I/MC | Supports automatic PFM/PWM mode switchover; higher light-load efficiency but variable frequency and increased ripple | Better for ultra-low-power sleep modes where average current matters more than EMI or ripple | Select MCP1640-I/MC if system spends >90% time in sub-1 mA load; choose MCP1640B-I/MC for deterministic noise and stable regulation during active periods |
| TPS610992DRVR | Lower 0.7-V start-up (vs. 0.65 V), 1.2-V minimum operating voltage (vs. 0.35 V), 200 nA shutdown current (vs. <1 µA) | Superior for coin-cell applications needing nanoscale shutdown; less suitable for deeply discharged alkaline/NiMH | Prefer TPS610992DRVR for CR2032-based designs with strict <500 nA budget; retain MCP1640B-I/MC for multi-cell alkaline/NiMH where sub-0.4 V operation is mandatory |
Compared with MCP1640-I/MC and TPS610992DRVR, the MCP1640B-I/MC uniquely balances ultra-low start-up (0.65 V), sub-0.4 V runtime, true disconnect, and fixed-frequency PWM - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-diverse portable instruments where reliability across chemistries outweighs nanoscale quiescent savings.
Availability
MCP1640B-I/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensors, medical wearables, handheld instruments, and GPS receivers requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for MCP1640B-I/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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs for embedded control applications.
The MCP1640/B/C/D product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-voltage, high-efficiency boost conversion in battery-powered portable electronics - emphasizing start-up robustness, true load isolation, and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for MCP1640B-I/MC to start regulation?
The MCP1640B-I/MC has a typical start-up voltage of 0.65 V with a 3.3 V output and 1 mA resistive load. This enables reliable operation from nearly depleted single-cell alkaline or NiMH batteries. The device will not initiate regulation below this threshold, and start-up behavior is verified per DS20002234D-page 3, Note 1.
Does MCP1640B-I/MC support PFM mode operation?
No, MCP1640B-I/MC is explicitly configured for PWM-only operation - PFM mode is disabled per device option table (DS20002234D-page 12). It maintains a fixed 500 kHz switching frequency across all load conditions, delivering lower output ripple and predictable EMI versus PFM-capable variants like MCP1640/C.
How does the true load disconnect function work in MCP1640B-I/MC?
When EN is pulled low, MCP1640B-I/MC turns off both its internal N-channel boost switch and P-channel synchronous rectifier, eliminating the DC path between VIN and VOUT. This achieves true isolation with <1 µA shutdown current and prevents battery drain or backfeed - a key differentiator from standard boost converters with body-diode conduction paths.
What package types are offered for MCP1640B-I/MC, and which one does the "/MC" suffix indicate?
MCP1640B-I/MC is available in 6-lead SOT-23 and 8-lead 2×3 mm DFN packages. The "/MC" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes the SOT-23 package per Microchip's ordering guide (DS20002234D-page 1). The DFN variant uses "/MD" suffix and includes an exposed thermal pad (EP) for enhanced thermal performance.
Can MCP1640B-I/MC regulate output voltages above the input voltage?
Yes - MCP1640B-I/MC is a step-up (boost) converter and is specifically designed to generate output voltages from 2.0 V to 5.5 V, provided VOUT ≥ VIN. However, regulation is not maintained if VIN exceeds VOUT; the datasheet specifies "Maximum Input Voltage ≤ VOUT < 5.5 V" (DS20002234D-page 3), meaning input must remain at or below the programmed output level.
MCP1640B-I/MC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Boost
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 0.8V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 2V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5.5V
- Current - Output:
- 350mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 500kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-DFN (2x3)
MCP1640B-I/MC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP1640B-I/MC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP1640B-I/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 MCP1640B-I/MC reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP1640B-I/MC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP1640B-I/MC is usually 5 days.
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MCP1640B-I/MC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP1640B-I/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 MCP1640B-I/MC?
For technical support, including MCP1640B-I/MC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP1640B-I/MC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP1640B-I/MC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP1640B-I/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 MCP1640B-I/MC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP1640B-I/MC?
All MCP1640B-I/MC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP1640B-I/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 MCP1640B-I/MC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP1640B-I/MC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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