Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2316GD-Z

Overview

MP2316GD-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with 4V–19V input range, 3A continuous output current, and 40µA quiescent current. It uses Constant On-Time (COT) control for fast transient response and tight regulation, integrates 90mΩ/30mΩ HS/LS MOSFETs, and features power-good indication, programmable soft-start, and hiccup-mode short-circuit protection - optimized for battery-powered SSDs and tablet PCs.

For engineers reviewing the MP2316GD-Z datasheet, MP2316GD-Z pinout, MP2316GD-Z application, or MP2316GD-Z equivalent, key selection considerations include its 2×3mm QFN-14 package, forced-PWM/auto-PFM mode selectability via FREQ/MODE pin, 0.6V adjustable output, thermal shutdown at 150°C, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors requiring external ramp compensation.

Technical Context

The MP2316GD-Z implements a COT control architecture with internal ramp compensation, where switching frequency is feed-forward determined by VIN and an external resistor on the FREQ/MODE pin. Its dual-mode operation-forced PWM (fixed frequency, CCM across load) or auto PFM/PWM (frequency scaling below critical current)-enables high efficiency from light to full load.

It integrates a 5V internal LDO (VCC), bootstrap gate driver (BST), open-drain power-good (PG) with 40µs delay and 5% window, and cycle-by-cycle over-current protection that triggers hiccup recovery. The EN pin supports monotonic pre-bias startup and includes internal 1MΩ pull-down and 6.5V Zener clamping.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2316GD-Z is housed in a thermally enhanced 2mm × 3mm, 14-pin QFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP). The package supports high-power density designs and requires solder paste stencil optimization and thermal vias under EP for reliable 3A operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with RT6220AGQW and TPS62865ARGTR, MP2316GD-Z uniquely balances ultra-low IQ, dual-mode operation, and compact 2×3mm footprint - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-sensitive applications where both light-load efficiency and transient response are critical.

Availability

MP2316GD-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for tablet PCs, solid-state drives, gaming handhelds, and battery-operated instrumentation requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP2316GD-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, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MP2316 belongs to MPS's high-efficiency, low-IQ DC/DC converter product line, engineered specifically for portable and battery-critical applications where extended runtime and compact power delivery are essential.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended output capacitance for stable operation?

The MP2316GD-Z requires ≥22µF ceramic output capacitance with X5R/X7R dielectric for stable regulation in PWM mode. With smaller values (<10µF), external ramp compensation (CR pin) becomes mandatory to prevent subharmonic oscillation. Layout must minimize ESL by placing capacitors adjacent to SW and GND pins using multiple vias.

Can MP2316GD-Z start up into a pre-biased output?

Yes - MP2316GD-Z supports monotonic pre-bias startup. When the output is already biased, the internal soft-start capacitor charges only after BST voltage exceeds 2.2V and SS voltage surpasses the sensed FB voltage. This prevents reverse current flow and ensures controlled ramp-up without output collapse or overshoot.

How does the FREQ/MODE pin determine switching frequency and mode?

Connecting a resistor from FREQ/MODE to VIN sets forced PWM mode and calculates frequency using T_{ON_PWM} = 14.5×R_FREQ/V_IN + 15ns. Connecting to GND sets auto PFM/PWM mode using T_{ON_PFM} = 13×R_FREQ/V_IN + 10ns. The same resistor value yields ~10% higher frequency in forced PWM mode due to longer minimum on-time.

What is the purpose of the CR pin and when is it required?

The CR pin adds external ramp compensation to stabilize the COT control loop when using low-ESR ceramic output capacitors. It is required whenever output ripple voltage falls below ~20mV peak-to-peak - typically with ≥22µF X5R/X7R caps. Recommended CR values range from 56pF to 150pF depending on VOUT and switching frequency.

Does MP2316GD-Z support output voltages below 0.6V?

No - the internal feedback reference is fixed at 600mV, and the datasheet specifies output adjustability from 0.6V upward. Attempting sub-0.6V regulation violates the FB comparator's operating range and results in loss of regulation and potential instability. For lower outputs, a dedicated low-VREF converter or external reference solution is required.

What thermal derating applies at 3A continuous load?

At 3A continuous output with 12V input and 1.2V output, junction temperature rise is ~55°C on a standard 4-layer PCB with thermal vias under the EP pad. Derating begins above 85°C ambient; full 3A output is guaranteed only up to +85°C ambient. Above that, output current must be reduced per θ_JA = 70°C/W to maintain T_J ≤ 125°C.

Is the PG pin compatible with 1.8V logic systems?

Yes - the PG pin is open-drain and can be pulled up to any voltage ≤6V, including 1.8V. When pulled to 1.8V, PG asserts high at ~1.62V (90% of 1.8V) and de-asserts low at ~1.53V (85% of 1.8V), maintaining accurate tracking. Ensure pull-up resistor value (e.g., 100kΩ) limits leakage current to <1µA.