Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2172CGQFU-Z

Overview

MP2172CGQFU-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down DC-DC converter IC with integrated 75mΩ high-side and 45mΩ low-side MOSFETs, delivering up to 2A continuous output current across a 2.38V–5.5V input range and supporting adjustable output voltages down to 0.6V. It employs constant-on-time (COT) control for fast transient response, includes output discharge, VOUT over-voltage protection, and hiccup-mode short-circuit protection-ideal for space-constrained portable power rails in battery-powered devices.

For engineers reviewing the MP2172CGQFU-Z datasheet, MP2172CGQFU-Z pinout, MP2172CGQFU-Z application, or MP2172CGQFU-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.1MHz fixed switching frequency, 1% FB voltage accuracy, EN-controlled power sequencing, thermal shutdown at 160°C, and UTQFN-6 (1.2mm × 1.6mm) package suitability for high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MP2172CGQFU-Z implements a constant-on-time (COT) control architecture with input voltage feed-forward, enabling stable 1.1MHz operation across input (2.38V–5.5V) and output (0.6V–VIN) ranges while minimizing loop compensation complexity. Its internal power stage integrates complementary P-channel and N-channel MOSFETs with on-resistances of 75mΩ and 45mΩ respectively, supporting 100% duty-cycle operation for low-dropout regulation.

Fault management includes cycle-by-cycle current limiting (2.8A high-side peak), thermal shutdown with 30°C hysteresis, output discharge via internal 200Ω resistor when disabled, and dual-stage over-voltage protection: dynamic low-side FET activation for VFB > 115% reference, plus absolute VIN OVP at 6.1V with 400mV hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2172CGQFU-Z is housed in an ultra-thin UTQFN-6 package measuring 1.2mm × 1.6mm with 0.4mm pitch, optimized for high-density portable designs and requiring minimal PCB area.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS62231DRYR and RT7295BGJ6F, MP2172CGQFU-Z uniquely combines adjustable 0.6V output, integrated discharge, 2A capability, and 1.1MHz COT control in a 1.2mm × 1.6mm UTQFN-making it optimal for compact, dynamically sequenced, battery-fed systems requiring robust fault recovery.

Availability

MP2172CGQFU-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless networking cards, portable medical instruments, and battery-powered IoT sensors requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MP2172CGQFU-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 power management ICs, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MP2172C product line targets ultra-compact, high-efficiency DC-DC conversion for portable and battery-operated electronics, emphasizing minimal external components, fast transient response, and robust protection in sub-2mm² packages.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended output capacitance for stable operation?

The MP2172CGQFU-Z requires ≥22µF ceramic output capacitance (X5R/X7R) with ≤5mΩ ESR for stable regulation across 0–2A loads. Lower values risk instability under heavy transient loads; using two 10µF capacitors in parallel improves high-frequency decoupling and reduces effective ESR.

Does the device support forced PWM mode, or is it strictly COT?

The MP2172CGQFU-Z operates exclusively in constant-on-time (COT) mode and does not offer a forced PWM option. Its COT architecture inherently provides fast transient response and simplified loop stability without external compensation, eliminating the need for mode selection pins or configuration registers.

How does the output discharge function behave during EN assertion?

When EN is pulled low, the MP2172CGQFU-Z activates an internal 200Ω discharge path between OUT and GND, reducing VOUT to <100mV within ~10ms (dependent on output capacitance). This occurs automatically-no external components or timing control required-and prevents back-powering of upstream circuitry.

What is the maximum allowable junction temperature, and how is thermal protection implemented?

The absolute maximum junction temperature is 150°C, with thermal shutdown triggered at 160°C (±10°C) and 30°C hysteresis. Once tripped, the device halts switching and remains latched off until die temperature falls below 130°C, then resumes normal operation without requiring EN toggling.

Can the MP2172CGQFU-Z operate with input voltages below 2.38V?

No-the under-voltage lockout (UVLO) rising threshold is guaranteed at 2.38V minimum; operation below this level is not functional or characterized. At VIN < 2.38V, the device remains disabled regardless of EN state, and no output regulation occurs.

Is the FB pin internally biased, and what is its input current specification?

Yes, the FB pin has an internal 0.6V reference and draws only 50–100nA typical input current. This ultra-low bias enables use of high-value feedback resistors (e.g., 200kΩ/200kΩ for 1.2V), minimizing divider current and improving light-load efficiency without sacrificing accuracy.

What layout practices are critical to achieve specified EMI performance?

Key layout rules include: (1) placing input capacitor <2mm from VIN/GND pins, (2) routing SW trace short and wide with no vias, (3) isolating FB trace from SW and inductor fields, and (4) using solid ground plane beneath IC with thermal vias to inner layers-deviations increase conducted EMI by >10dB above 30MHz.