Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP201DS-LF-Z

Overview

MP201DS-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a dedicated dying gasp storage and release control IC for telecom power backup systems. It charges an external storage capacitor to a user-programmable voltage (up to 32 V) during normal operation, then dumps up to 2.5 A into the input rail when VIN drops below a programmable release threshold (e.g., 10.2 V), sustaining regulated input voltage for critical system response. Used in DSL/PON modems and home gateways to maintain communication during AC loss.

For engineers reviewing the MP201DS-LF-Z datasheet, MP201DS-LF-Z pinout, MP201DS-LF-Z application, or MP201DS-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include programmable storage/release voltages, 2.5 A dump current capability, built-in 260 mA charge current limiting, GASP open-drain flag signaling, and SOIC-8 thermal performance (θJA = 90°C/W).

Technical Context

The MP201 implements dual feedback regulation: FB1 sets storage voltage (VSTRG = VIN to 2×VIN–0.8 V, max 32 V) via external resistor divider; FB2 sets release voltage (VRELEASE) with ±3% tolerance at 1.0 V reference. It uses bootstrap charging (BST pin tied to DC/DC switch node) to boost STRG above VIN during normal operation.

During brownout, it activates a high-current LDO-like release path from STRG to VIN, regulating VIN near VRELEASE until STRG depletes. The GASP pin provides TTL-compatible open-drain status (high when FB2 > 1.05×VFB2, low when FB2 < 1.00×VFB2) with 73 μs rising/falling delay.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP201DS-LF-Z is housed in a standard SOIC-8 package (5.0 mm × 6.2 mm, 1.27 mm pitch) with exposed pad not present; θJA = 90°C/W on 4-layer PCB.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dying gasp control applications.

Compared with TPS23861 and ADM1278, MP201DS-LF-Z delivers turnkey dying gasp functionality in SOIC-8 with no external power switches, single-resistor programmability for both storage and release, and 2.5 A native dump current-reducing BOM count by ≥6 components and eliminating layout-sensitive gate-drive design.

Availability

MP201DS-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cable modem power backup, PON ONT hold-up, and home gateway UPS interface requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) and long-life telecom deployments.

Supply support for MP201DS-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 focus on efficiency, integration, and reliability in power management solutions.

The MP201 belongs to MPS's Telecom Power Management product line, engineered specifically for broadband access equipment requiring deterministic, low-component-count hold-up during input power failure.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable storage capacitor voltage rating for MP201DS-LF-Z?

The absolute maximum voltage at the STRG pin is 32 V, and the recommended operating storage voltage is up to 23 V (as validated in the datasheet design example). Electrolytic capacitors rated for 25 V are commonly used, leveraging MP201's tight regulation to safely operate at 90% derating (22.5 V), unlike general-purpose applications requiring 70–80% derating.

Can MP201DS-LF-Z operate with a 24 V input supply?

No - the absolute maximum VIN rating is 22 V, and the recommended operating range is strictly 4.5 V to 18 V. Applying 24 V exceeds ABS MAX by 2 V and risks permanent damage per the datasheet's Absolute Maximum Ratings table. For 24 V systems, a front-end buck converter must step down to ≤18 V before MP201 input.

How does the BST pin function during normal operation?

BST connects to the DC/DC converter's switch node through a series RC network (typically 10 Ω + 22 nF). When the DC/DC is enabled and switching, this generates a boosted gate drive that allows the internal charge pump to elevate STRG above VIN - enabling storage at 20–23 V even from a 12 V input, which maximizes energy (E = ½CV²) without increasing capacitance.

Is external compensation required for the release loop?

Yes - stability of the release regulation loop depends on the R3/R4 divider and feedforward capacitor Cf (recommended 15 pF). Table 2 in the datasheet specifies Cf = 15 pF for all release voltages; omitting Cf or using incorrect value causes oscillation or delayed release response, as confirmed in Typical Performance Characteristics waveforms.

What is the purpose of the VMAX pin and its required capacitor?

VMAX supplies the internal LDO that powers the MP201's logic, comparators, and gate drivers independently of VIN transients. A 2.2 nF ceramic capacitor is mandatory between VMAX and GND to suppress high-frequency noise and prevent false triggering during dump events - omission results in erratic GASP behavior and premature shutdown.

Does MP201DS-LF-Z support automatic recharging after a dying gasp event?

Yes - after the storage capacitor discharges and VIN recovers above the INUVVth threshold (2.5–3.5 V), the MP201 automatically resumes pre-charge and refresh cycles. No external reset or enable signal is needed; the device self-recovers once input voltage stabilizes within operating range.

Can the GASP pin drive an LED directly?

Yes - with appropriate current-limiting resistor. GASP sinks up to 4 mA with 0.2–0.3 V saturation voltage at 4 mA. For a 12 V rail and red LED (VF ≈ 1.8 V), a 2.2 kΩ resistor limits current to ~4.6 mA, staying within spec and providing clear visual indication of dying gasp activation.