Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2236CGJ-P

Overview

MP2236CGJ-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM), synchronous step-down DC/DC converter delivering up to 6A continuous output current with 3V–18V input range, 600kHz switching frequency, and integrated 25mΩ/12mΩ MOSFETs. It regulates 0.6V–8V output voltage in flat-panel TV power supplies, digital set-top boxes, and distributed power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MP2236CGJ-P datasheet, MP2236CGJ-P pinout, MP2236CGJ-P application, or MP2236CGJ-P equivalent, key selection criteria include FCCM operation for low-noise light-load performance, hiccup-mode OCP for short-circuit robustness, thermal shutdown at 150°C, and TSOT23-8 package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MP2236CGJ-P employs constant-on-time (COT) control with internal ramp compensation, enabling fast transient response without external loop compensation components. Its dual-MOSFET architecture integrates a 25mΩ high-side and 12mΩ low-side switch, supporting duty cycles up to 85% before on-time extension activates.

Feedback regulation uses a precision 600mV reference with ±3mV tolerance over temperature, while valley-current sensing via the low-side FET's R_DS(ON) enables cycle-by-cycle over-current protection. The IC includes internal VCC regulation, bootstrap charging circuitry, and 2MΩ EN pull-down for reliable enable/disable sequencing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2236CGJ-P is housed in a thermally enhanced TSOT23-8 package with exposed pad for improved heat dissipation. Pin numbering follows standard top-view orientation with Pin 1 at bottom-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP2236CGJ-P, MP2238CGJ-Z offers higher current headroom at the expense of board space and thermal design effort, while TPS546B24RVFT adds digital control overhead unsuitable for cost-sensitive, fixed-output applications where FCCM simplicity and TSOT23-8 integration are critical.

Availability

MP2236CGJ-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for flat-panel television power supplies, digital set-top box designs, and distributed power systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP2236CGJ-P 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 over two decades of expertise in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MP2236CGJ-P belongs to MPS's FCCM synchronous buck converter product line, engineered for high-efficiency, low-noise power delivery in space-constrained consumer and industrial electronics where simplicity, reliability, and thermal performance are prioritized.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended output capacitance for stable operation?

The MP2236CGJ-P supports ceramic-only output capacitors due to its internal ramp compensation. For 3.3V/6A operation, a minimum of 66µF total (e.g., three 22µF X7R 0805 ceramics) is recommended to limit output ripple to <25mV_PP and ensure phase margin >45° across load and temperature.

Does MP2236CGJ-P support pre-biased start-up?

Yes - the IC disables both high-side and low-side FETs during start-up if the FB node is pre-biased above the soft-start voltage. This prevents reverse current flow into the output capacitor and avoids potential damage to downstream circuitry in hot-swap or multi-rail systems.

Can the switching frequency be adjusted externally?

No - MP2236CGJ-P operates at a fixed 600kHz nominal frequency determined by internal timing circuitry. Frequency variation is limited to ±20% (480–720kHz) due to process and temperature drift; no external resistor or capacitor adjusts f_SW.

What is the maximum achievable duty cycle before on-time extension activates?

The MP2236CGJ-P extends on-time when duty cycle exceeds 85%, dropping switching frequency to maintain regulation. At 3.3V_OUT/12V_IN, this occurs at ~27.5% duty cycle; the minimum frequency under extended on-time is 260kHz, with D_MAX calculated as 1 − t_{OFF_MIN} × f_{SW_MIN} = 95.6%.

Is an external bootstrap diode required for proper operation?

An external BST diode (e.g., 1N4148) is optional and only beneficial when VIN < 5V, VOUT = 3.3V, and duty cycle > 65%. Under typical 12V_IN/3.3V_OUT operation, the internal bootstrap circuit provides sufficient gate drive without added components.

How does the hiccup-mode OCP respond to a sustained short-circuit condition?

Upon detecting valley-current limit violation, the MP2236CGJ-P enters hiccup mode after three cycles if output voltage drops below 60% of target (UV2). It then cycles ON for 12.5% of period (≈125µs at 600kHz) and OFF for 87.5%, limiting average short-circuit current to ~800mA and die temperature to <110°C on standard PCB.

What is the thermal resistance from junction to ambient under standard evaluation board conditions?

On the EVL2236C-J-00A 4-layer PCB (63.5mm × 63.5mm), θ_JA is measured at 66°C/W. This value assumes optimal layout with exposed pad soldered to inner ground plane; actual θ_JA in customer designs may range from 75°C/W (2-layer) to 55°C/W (6-layer with thermal vias).