Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2488DQ-LF-P

Overview

MP2488DQ-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a fixed-frequency, peak-current-mode step-down LED driver IC integrating a 220mΩ high-side 55V MOSFET, delivering up to 2A constant current to high-power LED strings. It operates from 4.5V–55V input, features 200mV reference for precise current regulation, programmable switching frequency up to 200kHz via external resistor, and thermal shutdown protection. Used in automotive headlight modules requiring stable 330mA–2A LED current with EMI-sensitive layout constraints.

For engineers reviewing the MP2488DQ-LF-P datasheet, MP2488DQ-LF-P pinout, MP2488DQ-LF-P application, or MP2488DQ-LF-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2A output capability, 200mV FB reference tolerance (±6%), QFN10(3×3mm) thermal performance (θJA = 50°C/W), and compatibility with ceramic-output-capacitor designs for fast transient response in constant-current lighting systems.

Technical Context

The MP2488DQ-LF-P implements peak-current-mode control with internal 200mV reference and error amplifier (AVEA = 400 V/V, GEA = 350 µA/V), enabling accurate LED current regulation independent of input voltage variation. Its programmable oscillator uses an external resistor (e.g., 495kΩ for 200kHz) and supports ceramic decoupling on FREQ pin to suppress noise-induced frequency drift.

It integrates a high-voltage floating gate driver powered by a bootstrap capacitor between BST and SW pins, with dedicated UVLO (2.2V rising threshold) and internal soft-start (0.18ms ramp). The COMP pin serves as GM amplifier output for loop compensation, clamped between 0.9V and 2.0V during operation and pulled to GND in shutdown mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2488DQ-LF-P is housed in a thermally enhanced 3×3mm 10-pin QFN package with exposed pad for optimal heat dissipation (θJC = 12°C/W). The exposed pad must be soldered to a solid GND plane to maintain junction temperature ≤125°C at 2A load.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-power LED driver applications.

Compared with LT3474EFE#TRPBF and TPS92630QPWPRQ1, MP2488DQ-LF-P offers superior 55V input support, lower quiescent current, and integrated MOSFET-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, thermally constrained, wide-input industrial and commercial LED systems where AEC-Q100 is not mandated.

Availability

MP2488DQ-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive headlamp modules, industrial high-bay luminaires, emergency exit signage, and UV-C sterilization equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MP2488DQ-LF-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 analog and power ICs, with core expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions since 1997.

The MP2488 belongs to MPS's high-voltage LED driver product line, engineered for robust constant-current regulation in harsh environments-including automotive under-hood, outdoor lighting, and industrial machinery-where wide input range and thermal resilience are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable LED string voltage that MP2488DQ-LF-P can drive?

The MP2488DQ-LF-P does not regulate output voltage directly-it regulates current through the LED string. The maximum output voltage is limited by the difference between input voltage and forward drop across the internal MOSFET and external Schottky diode. With 55V input and typical 0.4V diode drop, the practical maximum LED string voltage is approximately 52V (e.g., 16×3.2V white LEDs). Exceeding this risks violating the 60V absolute maximum SW-to-GND rating.

Can MP2488DQ-LF-P operate with a 5V input supply?

Yes-MP2488DQ-LF-P supports input voltages as low as 4.5V. At 5V input, the device delivers up to 2A output current provided the LED string forward voltage is ≤3.5V (accounting for MOSFET R_DS(on) drop and diode VF). Efficiency drops to ~88% due to higher conduction losses, but thermal performance remains within spec with proper PCB copper area on the exposed pad.

How is PWM dimming implemented using the EN pin?

PWM dimming is achieved by applying a logic-level square wave (0V/3.3V or 0V/5V) to the EN pin. The chip enables fully when EN > 1.5V and disables completely when EN < 1.2V. For smooth dimming, frequencies between 100Hz–1kHz are recommended; below 100Hz may cause visible flicker, while above 5kHz increases switching losses without perceptible benefit. Internal soft-start resets on each enable cycle.

What is the purpose of the BST pin, and what capacitor value is recommended?

The BST pin supplies gate drive voltage to the internal high-side MOSFET driver via a bootstrap capacitor connected between BST and SW. A 100nF X7R ceramic capacitor is recommended-placed as close as possible to the BST and SW pins. This capacitor charges during the SW low phase from VIN through an internal PMOS and discharges to drive the gate during the high phase, enabling efficient high-side switching without a separate isolated supply.

Does MP2488DQ-LF-P require external compensation components?

Yes-MP2488DQ-LF-P requires external compensation on the COMP pin to ensure loop stability. A minimum configuration uses RCOM (e.g., 700kΩ) and CCOM1 (e.g., 22nF) to set a dominant pole-zero pair. For applications with high-ESR output capacitors, a second capacitor CCOM2 (e.g., 100pF) from COMP to GND adds a pole to cancel the ESR zero. Compensation values depend on inductor value, LED string impedance, and desired crossover frequency (~20kHz).

Is the QFN10 package RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes-MP2488DQ-LF-P is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, as indicated by the "LF" suffix in the part number. The QFN10(3×3mm) package uses matte tin (Sn) lead finish and meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL3), requiring bake before reflow if exposed to ambient for >168 hours. The exposed pad is nickel-palladium-gold (NiPdAu) plated for reliable solder wetting.

What failure protections are built into MP2488DQ-LF-P?

MP2488DQ-LF-P integrates thermal shutdown (150°C trip), input UVLO (3.0V rising threshold with 0.4V hysteresis), cycle-by-cycle current limiting (3.2A peak switch current), and bootstrap UVLO (2.2V). It does not include open-LED or short-LED fault detection-those require external circuitry. All protections latch off the internal regulator and pull COMP to GND, ensuring safe shutdown without external intervention.