Microchip Technology MCP1640C-I/MC
- Part No.:
- MCP1640C-I/MC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- 8-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP1640C-I/MC.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BOOST ADJ 350MA 8DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:673
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Product details
Overview
MCP1640C-I/MC from Microchip Technology is a synchronous step-up DC-DC converter optimized for ultra-low-voltage battery-powered systems. It starts up at 0.65V (typical, 3.3VOUT), delivers up to 350 mA output current at 3.3VIN/5.0VOUT, operates with 19 µA quiescent current in PFM mode, and features automatic PFM/PWM mode switching at 500 kHz nominal frequency - enabling high-efficiency power conversion in wireless sensors and Li-ion coin-cell devices.
For engineers reviewing the MCP1640C-I/MC datasheet, MCP1640C-I/MC pinout, MCP1640C-I/MC application, or MCP1640C-I/MC equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package-specific pin functions, real-world efficiency behavior across input voltage ranges, confirmed shutdown modes, and validated alternative options for low-power boost supply design.
Technical Context
The MCP1640C-I/MC implements a fixed-frequency, peak-current-mode synchronous boost architecture with integrated N-channel main switch (RDS(ON) = 0.6 Ω) and P-channel synchronous rectifier (RDS(ON) = 0.9 Ω). Its adaptive slope compensation ensures stability across input/output ratios, while lossless current sensing enables accurate 850 mA typical peak current limiting without external sense resistors.
This variant supports automatic PFM/PWM mode transition - entering PFM below ~1–5 mA load to reduce quiescent current to 19 µA, then seamlessly returning to 500 kHz PWM operation above threshold. It also implements Input-to-Output Bypass mode during shutdown, connecting VIN to VOUTP via the internal P-MOSFET with <1 µA total shutdown current and no reverse conduction path.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Start-up Voltage | 0.65 V (typical, 3.3VOUT @ 1 mA); enables direct start from single alkaline/NiMH or deeply discharged Li-ion cells |
| Operating Input Range | 0.35 V to ≤ VOUT (max 5.5 V); supports continuous regulation down to sub-0.4V after startup |
| Output Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V (adjustable via resistor divider); feedback reference = 1.21 V ±2.5% |
| Switching Frequency | 425–575 kHz (typical 500 kHz); fixed-frequency PWM + variable-frequency PFM for light-load efficiency |
| Peak Switch Current | 850 mA (typical); sets maximum deliverable output current under given VIN/VOUT conditions |
| Quiescent Current | 19 µA (PFM mode, no load); enables >1-year battery life in always-on sensor nodes with 100 µA average load |
| Shutdown Current | <1 µA (all shutdown states); includes true input-to-output bypass with integrated P-MOSFET conduction |
| Thermal Protection | 150°C trip (10°C hysteresis); prevents thermal runaway during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design |
Pinout & Package
Package: 6-Lead SOT-23 (standard leaded plastic package, 0.95 mm max height, JEDEC MO-178).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Power Supply Input | Accepts 0.35–5.5 V input; requires ≥4.7 µF local decoupling; connects directly to boost inductor |
| GND | Common Reference Node | Single ground return for signal and power paths; shortest possible trace length required to minimize noise coupling |
| SW | Switch Node | Connects to inductor and internal N-MOSFET drain/P-MOSFET source; carries up to 800 mA peak current |
| EN | Enable Control Input | Logic-level input: >90% VIN = enable, <20% VIN = disable; supports direct microcontroller GPIO control |
| VOUT | Regulated Output Power | Delivers regulated output; connects to output capacitor and feedback divider top resistor; not internally isolated in bypass mode |
| VFB | Feedback Sense Input | Monitors output via resistor divider; internal reference = 1.21 V; bias current = 10 pA (enables high-R dividers) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Input-to-Output Bypass Mode | EN = low connects VIN to VOUTP via integrated P-MOSFET (RDS(ON) = 0.9 Ω), enabling deep-sleep operation with <1 µA current draw |
| Low-Noise Anti-Ringing Control | Integrated damping circuit suppresses high-frequency oscillations at SW node in DCM, reducing EMI without external snubbers |
| Internal Compensation | Full Type-II compensation network embedded; eliminates need for external compensation components and tuning effort |
| Inrush & Soft-Start Control | 750 µs soft-start time; limits inrush current during startup and prevents output overshoot on cold battery inputs |
| Synchronous Rectification | Integrated P-channel MOSFET replaces external Schottky diode; eliminates 0.3–0.5 V forward drop, improving efficiency by 5–10% at light loads |
| Overtemperature Protection | Auto-restart thermal shutdown at 150°C (10°C hysteresis); protects against sustained overload or inadequate heatsinking |
Applications
| Wireless Sensor Nodes | Li-ion Coin Cell Devices |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered BLE/Zigbee temperature/humidity sensor operating from CR2032 (2.0–3.0 V) requiring stable 3.3 V rail. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary voltage booster delivering regulated 3.3 V output with <1 µA shutdown current during sleep cycles. Use Value: Enables >2-year battery life using 220 µA average active current and 1 µA deep-sleep current, leveraging PFM mode and bypass shutdown. |
Use Scenario: Portable medical patch monitor powered by single Li-ion coin cell (2.5–3.6 V) needing 5.0 V for analog front-end and RF section. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-frequency synchronous boost converter generating 5.0 V from declining input with 350 mA capability at 3.3 VIN. Use Value: Delivers full 5.0 V output down to 2.5 V input with 96% peak efficiency, supporting clinical-grade accuracy without external LDO post-regulation. |
| Handheld Instruments | GPS Receivers |
Use Scenario: Pocket-sized multimeter using two alkaline AA cells (1.8–3.2 V) to power 3.3 V MCU and display backlight. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-startup-voltage boost regulator maintaining 3.3 V output across full battery discharge curve. Use Value: Starts reliably at 0.65 V and sustains regulation to 0.35 V, extending usable battery life by 20–30% versus conventional boost ICs. |
Use Scenario: Automotive GPS tracker with cold-cranking tolerance, powered by 12 V system via LDO + MCP1640C-I/MC for clean 3.3 V RF supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary boost stage isolating sensitive GNSS receiver from noisy 12 V rail and providing ripple-free 3.3 V. Use Value: Anti-ringing control reduces conducted EMI at SW node, preventing GPS signal desensitization; 500 kHz PWM avoids IF band interference. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous boost converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments TPS610992DRVR | Lower IQ (300 nA shutdown, 400 nA operation), but fixed 3.3 V/5.0 V outputs only; no adjustable VOUT; 0.7 V min start-up | Better for ultra-long-life coin-cell applications where fixed output suffices; unsuitable when 2.0–5.5 V adjustment or bypass mode required | Select TPS610992DRVR only if fixed output and nanoscale IQ outweigh need for flexibility and bypass functionality. |
| Analog Devices ADP5070ACPZ-R7 | Higher IOUT (400 mA), wider input range (2.85–15 V), but no PFM mode, higher IQ (2.3 mA), and no input-to-output bypass | Preferred for higher-power industrial sensors with stable input; incompatible with sub-1 V start-up or deep-sleep bypass use cases | Choose ADP5070ACPZ-R7 only when >350 mA output and wide VIN are critical, and PFM/bypass features are unnecessary. |
Compared with TPS610992DRVR and ADP5070ACPZ-R7, the MCP1640C-I/MC uniquely combines ultra-low start-up voltage (0.65 V), programmable output (2.0–5.5 V), PFM/PWM auto-switching, and input-to-output bypass - making it the only option among the three suitable for multi-chemistry battery systems requiring both longevity and functional flexibility.
Availability
MCP1640C-I/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, portable medical devices, handheld test equipment, and GPS receivers requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and consistent parametric performance.
Supply support for MCP1640C-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 leading provider of microcontrollers, analog, interface, power management, and timing solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and software platforms.
The MCP1640C-I/MC belongs to Microchip's ultra-low-voltage synchronous boost converter product line, designed specifically for energy-constrained battery-powered applications where start-up voltage, quiescent current, and functional safety (bypass mode, thermal protection) are primary selection criteria.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for MCP1640C-I/MC to start up and regulate 3.3 V output?
The MCP1640C-I/MC starts up at 0.65 V typical (measured with 3.3 kΩ load, 3.3 VOUT, 1 mA). This allows direct operation from single NiMH, alkaline, or deeply discharged Li-ion cells. After startup, regulation continues down to 0.35 V typical at 1 mA load - a key differentiator for extended battery runtime in low-power systems.
Does MCP1640C-I/MC support true load disconnect or input-to-output bypass during shutdown?
The MCP1640C-I/MC implements Input-to-Output Bypass mode (not true disconnect). When EN is pulled low, the internal P-channel MOSFET connects VIN to VOUTP, enabling low-bias deep-sleep operation with <1 µA total shutdown current. True disconnect is exclusive to MCP1640/B variants.
What is the switching frequency behavior of MCP1640C-I/MC under varying load conditions?
The MCP1640C-I/MC operates in automatic PFM/PWM mode: fixed 500 kHz PWM under medium-to-heavy loads (>5–10 mA), transitioning to variable-frequency PFM pulses at light loads to maintain 19 µA quiescent current. Frequency varies with VIN, VOUT, and load - not user-programmable.
Can MCP1640C-I/MC be used to generate 5.0 V output from a 3.3 V input, and what is the maximum supported output current?
Yes - the MCP1640C-I/MC supports 5.0 V output from 3.3 V input. At those conditions, it delivers >350 mA typical output current (per datasheet characterization), limited by the 850 mA peak switch current and internal RDS(ON) values. Efficiency remains >90% across 50–300 mA range.
How does the feedback network of MCP1640C-I/MC work, and what is the reference voltage?
The MCP1640C-I/MC uses a resistor divider from VOUT to GND, connected to VFB. The internal error amplifier compares VFB to a precise 1.21 V reference (±2.5%). With 10 pA input bias current, high-value resistors (e.g., 976 kΩ/309 kΩ for 5.0 V) minimize divider current while maintaining accuracy across temperature and humidity.
MCP1640C-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)
MCP1640C-I/MC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP1640C-I/MC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP1640C-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 MCP1640C-I/MC reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP1640C-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 MCP1640C-I/MC is usually 5 days.
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MCP1640C-I/MC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP1640C-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 MCP1640C-I/MC?
For technical support, including MCP1640C-I/MC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP1640C-I/MC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP1640C-I/MC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP1640C-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 MCP1640C-I/MC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP1640C-I/MC?
All MCP1640C-I/MC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP1640C-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 MCP1640C-I/MC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP1640C-I/MC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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