Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2488DQ-LF-Z

Overview

MP2488DQ-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fixed-frequency, peak-current-mode step-down LED driver IC integrating a 220mΩ high-side 55V MOSFET and delivering up to 2A constant current to high-power LED strings. It operates from 4.5V–55V input, supports programmable switching frequency up to 200kHz via external resistor, and features 200mV reference voltage for precise current regulation in automotive headlight and industrial lighting systems.

For engineers reviewing the MP2488DQ-LF-Z datasheet, MP2488DQ-LF-Z pinout, MP2488DQ-LF-Z application, or MP2488DQ-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3.2A internal current limit, 130µA quiescent current in active operation, thermal shutdown protection, QFN10 (3×3mm) package with exposed pad, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors for stable regulation under PWM dimming.

Technical Context

The MP2488DQ-LF-Z implements peak-current-mode control with a 200mV feedback reference and internal error amplifier (400V/V gain, 350µA/V transconductance). Its programmable oscillator sets switching frequency from ~150kHz to 200kHz using an external resistor on the FREQ pin, enabling EMI optimization.

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 soft-start (0.18ms ramp). The COMP pin serves as the error amplifier output for external RC compensation network design targeting ~20kHz crossover frequency.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2488DQ-LF-Z uses a thermally enhanced 3×3mm 10-pin QFN package with exposed thermal pad. Pin numbering follows JEDEC MO-229 VEED-5 standard; exposed pad must be soldered to PCB ground plane for optimal thermal performance (θJC = 12°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP2488DQ-LF-Z, the MPQ2488DQ-LF-Z adds automotive qualification at no cost penalty in footprint or efficiency, while the LM3409QMY/NOPB trades integration for higher current scalability and process technology choice - making MP2488DQ-LF-Z optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained 2A LED systems.

Availability

MP2488DQ-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting, industrial high-bay fixtures, and outdoor streetlight systems requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MP2488DQ-LF-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 core expertise in DC-DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP2488 product line targets high-voltage, high-current LED lighting applications requiring wide input range, high efficiency, and compact packaging - specifically engineered for automotive, industrial, and architectural lighting markets.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable LED string voltage supported by MP2488DQ-LF-Z?

The MP2488DQ-LF-Z does not regulate output voltage directly; it regulates current through the LED string. The maximum output voltage equals VIN minus the forward drop across the internal MOSFET and external Schottky diode. With 55V input and typical 0.4V diode drop, output can reach ~52V, sufficient for 15–16 white LEDs in series (3.3V each) or 12–14 UV LEDs (4.2V each).

Can MP2488DQ-LF-Z operate with a 3.3V input supply?

No. MP2488DQ-LF-Z has a minimum operating input voltage of 4.5V, enforced by internal UVLO with 3.0V rising threshold and 2.6V falling threshold. At 3.3V, the device remains in shutdown mode and will not start switching, even if EN is asserted high.

How is the 200kHz switching frequency set on MP2488DQ-LF-Z?

A resistor (RFREQ) is connected from the FREQ pin to GND. For 200kHz, RFREQ = 495kΩ per the formula fs(kHz) = 100000 / (RFREQ(kΩ) + 5). A 1nF ceramic capacitor must be placed in parallel with RFREQ to suppress noise coupling into the oscillator node.

Does MP2488DQ-LF-Z require an external bootstrap diode?

An external bootstrap diode is optional and recommended only in specific cases: when VIN ≤ 5V, when VOUT is between 3.3V and 5V, or when a clean 5V rail is available. In standard 12–48V LED driver configurations, the internal bootstrap charging circuit suffices.

What is the purpose of the two compensation capacitors (CCOM1 and CCOM2) in MP2488DQ-LF-Z designs?

CCOM1 sets the dominant pole-zero pair for loop stability and transient response; CCOM2 is added only if the output capacitor's ESR zero falls below half the switching frequency (e.g., with high-ESR electrolytics), where it introduces a compensating pole to cancel the ESR zero and maintain phase margin.

Is MP2488DQ-LF-Z RoHS compliant and halogen-free?

Yes. The "-LF" suffix indicates lead-free and RoHS-compliant packaging; Monolithic Power Systems confirms full compliance with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and J-STD-609A for halogen-free materials (Cl < 900ppm, Br < 900ppm).

How does thermal shutdown behave during continuous overload?

When junction temperature exceeds 150°C, MP2488DQ-LF-Z disables the power MOSFET and pulls COMP low. After cooling to ≤130°C (20°C hysteresis), it automatically resumes operation without requiring EN toggle or power cycle - enabling self-recovering fault protection.