Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2162AGQHT-Z

Overview

MP2162AGQHT-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down DC/DC converter IC with integrated 110mΩ high-side and 60mΩ low-side MOSFETs, delivering up to 2A continuous output current from a 2.5V–6V input while regulating output as low as 0.6V. It employs constant-on-time (COT) control for fast transient response and operates at a default 1.5MHz switching frequency with only 17μA quiescent current-ideal for portable instrumentation power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MP2162AGQHT-Z datasheet, MP2162AGQHT-Z pinout, MP2162AGQHT-Z application, or MP2162AGQHT-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.5% VFB accuracy, EN/PG signaling for power sequencing, 100% duty-cycle capability in dropout, thermal shutdown with 30°C hysteresis, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The MP2162AGQHT-Z uses a constant-on-time control architecture with input voltage feed-forward to maintain stable 1.5MHz switching across input (2.5V–6V) and output (0.6V–VIN) ranges. Its on-time is approximated by T_ON ≈ 0.667 μs × (V_OUT/V_IN), and it enforces a fixed 60ns minimum off-time to prevent inductor current runaway during transients.

Light-load operation leverages zero-current detection to enter discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), reducing switching losses; soft-start ramps output in 1.15ms; and the open-drain PG pin-internally pulled up via 550kΩ to VIN-asserts valid power when FB voltage stays within ±10% of 0.6V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TQFN-8 (2.0mm × 1.5mm × 0.75mm) package with exposed thermal pad; RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and lead-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down converter applications.

Compared with TPS62865RMLR and RT7295BGJ5, the MP2162AGQHT-Z uniquely balances ultra-low IQ (17μA), 6V input tolerance, built-in PG signaling, and COT-based transient performance-making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-sensitive designs requiring precise rail sequencing and long standby life.

Availability

MP2162AGQHT-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation power, battery-powered wireless sensors, low-voltage I/O system power, and embedded DSP/FPGA core supply requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.

Supply support for MP2162AGQHT-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan.

The MP2162A belongs to MPS's high-efficiency, low-IQ synchronous buck converter product line-engineered specifically for space- and power-constrained portable and battery-operated applications demanding fast transient response and minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the recommended input capacitor for MP2162AGQHT-Z?

A 10μF X5R/X7R ceramic capacitor placed directly between VIN and PGND is recommended for most applications. For higher output voltages or noisy input sources, a 47μF unit improves stability. The capacitor must handle RMS current ≥1A and be located within 2mm of the VIN and PGND pins to suppress high-frequency switching noise.

Can MP2162AGQHT-Z operate with an output voltage below 0.6V?

No-the internal reference is fixed at 0.6V, and the FB pin regulates to this voltage. Output voltages lower than 0.6V cannot be achieved using the standard feedback network. The minimum regulated output is 0.6V, set by the internal bandgap reference and feedback amplifier architecture.

How does the power good (PG) pin behave during startup and fault conditions?

PG remains low until V_OUT reaches 90% of target (e.g., 1.08V for 1.2V output) and stabilizes within ±10% of regulation. During undervoltage, overcurrent, or thermal shutdown, PG pulls low immediately. Its open-drain structure allows wired-OR connection with other PG signals for system-level power validation.

Is external compensation required for MP2162AGQHT-Z stability?

No-constant-on-time control eliminates the need for external compensation components. The converter is internally compensated and stable with standard ceramic output capacitors (≥10μF, X5R/X7R). Adding external RC networks or altering feedback divider values may destabilize the loop.

What thermal derating applies to the TQFN-8 package at elevated ambient temperatures?

With θ_JA = 110°C/W on a 4-layer PCB, maximum continuous power dissipation drops linearly: at 85°C ambient, PD_MAX = (150°C − 85°C)/110°C/W ≈ 0.59W. At 100°C ambient, it falls to ~0.45W. Layout with thermal vias under the exposed pad is essential to sustain 2A output above 60°C ambient.

Does MP2162AGQHT-Z support forced PWM mode at light loads?

No-it operates exclusively in automatic PFM/COT mode. At light loads, it enters discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) to reduce switching losses and maintain high efficiency. There is no pin or register to force continuous conduction; this behavior is inherent to its proprietary light-load control scheme.

What is the minimum off-time specification, and why does it matter?

The minimum off-time is 60ns-guaranteed by characterization. It prevents inductor current runaway during large load transients by ensuring the low-side switch remains on long enough for current decay. This parameter directly limits the maximum achievable duty cycle at high input-to-output ratios (e.g., 5V→1.2V).