Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2493DS-LF-Z

Overview

MP2493DS-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 2A, 36V monolithic step-down DC/DC converter with programmable output current limit via ISP/ISN sensing, fixed 130kHz switching frequency, 0.25Ω internal MOSFET, and stable operation with ceramic output capacitors. It delivers regulated 0.8V–15V output in automotive cigarette lighter adapters and USB power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MP2493DS-LF-Z datasheet, MP2493DS-LF-Z pinout, MP2493DS-LF-Z application, or MP2493DS-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include input voltage range (4.5–36V), programmable current limit threshold (100mV sense voltage), thermal shutdown (150°C), cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection, and SOIC-8 package compatibility with exposed pad grounding in SOIC8E variants.

Technical Context

The MP2493DS-LF-Z implements peak-current-mode control with integrated 0.25Ω high-side MOSFET and internal 0.8V reference. Its error amplifier integrates FB voltage error to set peak inductor current, while slope compensation ensures stability across duty cycles.

Current limiting operates via dedicated ISP/ISN differential inputs referenced to 100mV threshold; when exceeded, the SS pin is actively pulled down to reduce duty cycle and enforce constant-current regulation. A fast comparator triggers shutdown at >120% programmed limit.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2493DS-LF-Z is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (SOIC-8, JEDEC MS-012 AA) with exposed pad on backside connected to GND. The package supports 1.4W continuous power dissipation at +25°C ambient and requires thermal pad soldering for optimal heat transfer.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM5164QWRGRRQ1 and TPS54202DRCT, MP2493DS-LF-Z uniquely integrates differential current-sense inputs (ISP/ISN) with 100mV threshold and soft-start pin for closed-loop current regulation-enabling true programmable constant-current mode without external amplifiers or complex compensation.

Availability

MP2493DS-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB power supplies, automotive cigarette lighter adapters, and industrial 24V rail step-down applications requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MP2493DS-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan.

The MP2493 belongs to MPS's low-EMI buck converter product line, engineered for automotive and industrial applications demanding robust input voltage range, integrated protection, and simplified layout with ceramic capacitor compatibility.

FAQ

What is the function of the SS pin on MP2493DS-LF-Z?

The SS (Soft-Start) pin controls startup ramp rate and serves as the compensation node for the load current regulation loop. An external capacitor (typically 100nF) connected to SS determines soft-start duration and sets the bandwidth of the current-limit loop to below 1kHz, ensuring stable transition from voltage to current regulation during overload.

Can MP2493DS-LF-Z operate with input voltage below 4.5V?

No. The absolute minimum operating input voltage is 4.5V per the Recommended Operating Conditions table. Below this, the internal bias circuitry cannot sustain regulation, and UVLO remains active. The device will not switch or deliver output current until VIN exceeds the rising UVLO threshold of 3.3V ±0.3V, but functional operation requires ≥4.5V.

How is output current limit programmed using ISP and ISN pins?

Output current limit is set by the voltage difference between ISP and ISN. When V_ISP – V_ISN reaches 100mV, the current-limit loop activates and pulls down the SS pin to reduce duty cycle. A sense resistor (R_SENSE) placed in series with the load yields I_OUT(LIMIT) = 100mV / R_SENSE; inductor DCR sensing is also supported with appropriate RC network compensation.

Does MP2493DS-LF-Z require an external bootstrap diode?

No. The MP2493DS-LF-Z integrates an on-chip bootstrap regulator that charges the BST capacitor from VIN. An external diode is optional and only recommended if the internal regulator cannot maintain sufficient gate drive under high-duty-cycle or low-input-voltage conditions - typical designs with 12V–24V input do not require it.

What is the maximum allowable power dissipation for MP2493DS-LF-Z in SOIC-8 package?

The continuous power dissipation limit is 1.4W at +25°C ambient, calculated from θ_JA = 90°C/W and T_J(MAX) = 150°C. Derating is required above +25°C: PD_MAX = (150°C – T_A) / 90°C/W. Exceeding this causes thermal shutdown, which activates at 150°C junction temperature and releases at approximately 135°C.

Is MP2493DS-LF-Z pin-compatible with MP2493DN?

Yes. Both MP2493DS-LF-Z (SOIC-8) and MP2493DN-LF-Z (SOIC8E) share identical pinout, electrical characteristics, and functionality. The SOIC8E variant adds an exposed thermal pad on the underside, requiring connection to GND for improved thermal performance - layout differs, but schematic integration is identical.