Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP1518DG-LF-Z
- Part No.:
- MP1518DG-LF-Z
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 8-TFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MP1518DG-LF-Z.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR RGLTR PWM 350MA 8QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,104
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Product details
Overview
MP1518DG-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fixed-frequency, current-mode boost LED driver IC designed to drive up to 6 series white LEDs from a 2.5V–6V input (e.g., single-cell Li-ion). It features 1.3MHz switching, 104mV feedback voltage, internal 0.5Ω MOSFET switch, and open-load shutdown via OV pin at 28V - deployed in handheld LCD backlighting and camera flash circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MP1518DG-LF-Z datasheet, MP1518DG-LF-Z pinout, MP1518DG-LF-Z application, or MP1518DG-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.3MHz fixed-frequency operation, 104mV FB threshold for low-loss current sensing, TSOT23-6/QFN8 package options, thermal/UVLO protection, and PWM/DC analog dimming support.
Technical Context
The MP1518DG-LF-Z implements a constant-frequency peak-current-mode boost architecture with an internal N-channel MOSFET switch and integrated error amplifier. Its 104mV reference enables precise LED current regulation via external sense resistor, while the OV pin provides dedicated open-circuit detection by monitoring output voltage against a 28V threshold.
Soft-start ramps current limit over 120µs to suppress inrush; under-voltage lockout activates below 2.25V (with 92mV hysteresis), and thermal shutdown triggers at 160°C. The device operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature and supports PWM dimming ≤1kHz directly on EN or higher frequencies via filtered control.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Switching Frequency | 1.3 MHz typical - enables compact magnetics and reduces EMI filtering burden. |
| Feedback Voltage | 104 mV ±10 mV - minimizes I²R loss in current-sense resistor, improving efficiency at high LED currents. |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 6 V - matches single-cell Li-ion battery discharge profile (3.0–4.2 V) with headroom for system margin. |
| Output Over-Voltage Threshold | 28 V - disables switching during LED string open-circuit failure, preventing capacitor overvoltage. |
| Internal Switch RDS(on) | 0.5 Ω - limits conduction loss in boost power stage without requiring external FET. |
| Thermal Shutdown Temp | 160 °C - protects die during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design. |
| UVLO Threshold | 2.45 V rising - prevents erratic startup or brownout operation below usable battery voltage. |
Pinout & Package
MP1518DG-LF-Z is packaged in an 8-pin QFN (2mm × 2mm, exposed thermal pad), optimized for space-constrained portable designs. Pin functions are validated per Monolithic Power Systems Rev. 1.61 datasheet.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 5 GND | Power and signal ground reference | Dual ground pins reduce impedance path for high-frequency return current and improve thermal dissipation via exposed pad. |
| 2 IN | Input supply connection | Requires local 1µF ceramic bypass capacitor; connects to battery or DC source (2.5–6V). |
| 3 OV | Open-circuit voltage monitor | Connected to top of LED string; shuts down converter if voltage exceeds 28V (e.g., LED string break). |
| 4 EN | Enable/disable control input | Logic-high (>1.35V) enables operation; internal pull-down ensures default-off state if left unconnected. |
| 6 FB | Current-sense feedback node | Regulates LED current by holding voltage across external sense resistor at 104mV; connects to bottom of LED string. |
| 7 SW | Switch node output | Drain of internal 0.5Ω MOSFET; connects to boost inductor and output rectifier diode. |
| 8 NC | No-connect terminal | Not internally bonded; must remain unconnected per datasheet - no routing or soldering. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated Power MOSFET | 0.5Ω RDS(on) switch eliminates external FET, reducing BOM count and layout complexity. |
| Fixed 1.3MHz Switching | Enables use of sub-10µH inductors and <1µF output capacitance, minimizing board area in portable devices. |
| 104mV Feedback Threshold | Reduces sense resistor power loss by >50% vs. conventional 200mV references, extending battery runtime. |
| Open-Load Protection | OV pin monitors output and forces shutdown at 28V, preventing damage during LED string disconnection or failure. |
| Soft-Start & Dimming | 120µs controlled current ramp prevents input surge; supports both PWM (≤1kHz on EN) and analog DC dimming. |
Applications
| Cell Phone Backlight | Digital Camera Flash |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Driving 3–6 white LEDs for main display backlight in smartphones with single-cell Li-ion battery supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current boost controller regulating LED string current via FB pin; synchronizes switching at 1.3MHz to avoid audible noise. Use Value: 87% peak efficiency and 104mV FB reference extend usable battery life by minimizing sense resistor losses during active display use. | Use Scenario: Providing pulsed high-current drive (up to 20mA per LED) for compact camera flash modules in mobile devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response LED driver enabling precise PWM dimming control on EN pin for adjustable flash intensity. Use Value: Internal soft-start and thermal shutdown ensure reliable high-current pulses without thermal runaway or inrush-induced voltage droop. |
| Handheld PDA Display | Small LCD Instrument Panel |
Use Scenario: Powering monochrome or color TFT LCD backlights in industrial PDAs operating across wide temperature ranges (–40°C to +85°C ambient). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-frequency boost regulator with UVLO (2.45V) and thermal shutdown (160°C) ensuring robust operation during battery aging or elevated ambient temps. Use Value: Dual ground pins and QFN8 thermal pad maintain junction temperature below 125°C even at full load in sealed enclosures. | Use Scenario: Illuminating segmented or dot-matrix LCDs in medical or test equipment where EMI must be minimized and long-term reliability is critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED current controller with open-load protection (OV pin) preventing overvoltage damage if backlight LEDs fail open during field operation. Use Value: 28V OV threshold and latch-off behavior eliminate risk of sustained overvoltage stress on output capacitors and PCB traces. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar white LED boost driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP1518DJE | Slower switching slew rate; identical pinout and electrical specs except reduced EMI generation. | Better suited for ultra-low-EMI environments (e.g., RF-sensitive medical sensors) where 1.3MHz harmonics must be suppressed. | Select MP1518DJE when conducted EMI testing fails with MP1518DG-LF-Z and layout fixes are insufficient. |
| RT9397BF | Fixed 1.2MHz frequency, 200mV FB voltage, no OV pin; requires external MOSFET and separate OVP circuitry. | Lacks integrated open-load protection and higher FB voltage increases sense resistor power loss by ~92% at 20mA. | Choose only if legacy RT9397B footprint reuse is mandatory and external OVP can be added without compromising size. |
Compared with MP1518DJE, MP1518DG-LF-Z offers higher EMI tolerance in dense layouts but less inherent noise suppression; versus RT9397BF, it delivers lower BOM cost, smaller solution size, and built-in safety features - making it optimal for new portable backlight designs.
Availability
MP1518DG-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cell phone backlighting, digital camera flash modules, and handheld PDA display illumination requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for MP1518DG-LF-Z 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
Monolithic Power Systems (MPS) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog and power ICs, with core expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.
The MP1518 belongs to MPS's white LED driver product line, engineered specifically for space- and efficiency-constrained portable electronics requiring reliable, integrated boost solutions with comprehensive protection features.
FAQ
What is the maximum number of white LEDs the MP1518DG-LF-Z can drive?
The MP1518DG-LF-Z is rated to drive up to 6 series white LEDs, assuming typical forward voltage of 3.2V per LED and maximum output voltage of 25V. At 3.6V input, six LEDs (19.2V total VF) remain within the 25V output limit, with sufficient headroom for regulation and ripple.
Does MP1518DG-LF-Z support analog dimming, and how is it implemented?
Yes - analog dimming is supported by injecting a DC voltage into the FB node through a resistor divider (e.g., Figure 6 in datasheet). As external current flows into FB, the internal loop reduces LED current to maintain 104mV across the sense resistor, enabling linear 0–20mA control with 0–2V input.
What is the purpose of the NC pin (Pin 8) in the QFN8 package?
Pin 8 is a no-connect terminal - not bonded internally and electrically isolated. It must remain unconnected on PCB layout; soldering or routing to this pin may cause mechanical stress or unintended coupling, violating JEDEC MO-229 compliance.
Can MP1518DG-LF-Z operate with input voltage below 2.5V?
No - the absolute minimum operating input voltage is 2.5V per datasheet specifications. Below this, UVLO prevents startup; the 2.25V turn-on threshold applies only during rising VIN, and operation below 2.5V is neither characterized nor guaranteed for regulation accuracy or protection function integrity.
How does the OV pin provide open-circuit protection?
The OV pin continuously monitors output voltage. If the LED string opens, feedback drops to 0V, forcing maximum duty cycle and uncontrolled output rise. When OV detects ≥28V, the IC latches off - halting switching until power is cycled - preventing capacitor overvoltage and potential failure.
Is thermal performance different between TSOT23-6 and QFN8 packages?
Yes - the QFN8 (2mm × 2mm) package has θJA = 80°C/W versus 220°C/W for TSOT23-6, delivering significantly better thermal dissipation. With 1.6W max power dissipation (vs. 0.57W for TSOT23-6), QFN8 supports higher continuous LED current in thermally constrained layouts.
What is the recommended input capacitor value for MP1518DG-LF-Z?
A 1µF X5R/X7R ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the IN and GND pins is recommended. This value ensures stable input voltage during high di/dt switching events and meets the 2.5–6V input range requirements without excessive ripple or voltage sag.
MP1518DG-LF-Z Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- DC DC Regulator
- Topology:
- Step-Up (Boost)
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 2.5V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 6V
- Voltage - Output:
- 25V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 350mA (Switch)
- Frequency:
- 1.3MHz
- Dimming:
- Analog, PWM
- Applications:
- Backlight
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-QFN (2x2)
MP1518DG-LF-Z FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MP1518DG-LF-Z through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MP1518DG-LF-Z 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 MP1518DG-LF-Z reliable?
The price and inventory of MP1518DG-LF-Z are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MP1518DG-LF-Z is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MP1518DG-LF-Z?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MP1518DG-LF-Z transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MP1518DG-LF-Z?
MP1518DG-LF-Z orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MP1518DG-LF-Z 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 MP1518DG-LF-Z?
For technical support, including MP1518DG-LF-Z datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MP1518DG-LF-Z requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MP1518DG-LF-Z is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MP1518DG-LF-Z 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 MP1518DG-LF-Z meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MP1518DG-LF-Z?
All MP1518DG-LF-Z units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MP1518DG-LF-Z, 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 MP1518DG-LF-Z part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MP1518DG-LF-Z:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MP1518DG-LF-Z Tags

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