Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2497DN-LF-P

Overview

MP2497DN-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a 3A, 50V, 100kHz synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with programmable output overvoltage protection (OVP), internal 0.15Ω MOSFET switch, and output line drop compensation. It operates across 4.5V–50V input, delivers adjustable 0.8V–25V output, and supports automotive cigarette lighter adapters and USB power supplies requiring robust current limiting and thermal protection.

For engineers reviewing the MP2497DN-LF-P datasheet, MP2497DN-LF-P pinout, MP2497DN-LF-P application, or MP2497DN-LF-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its hiccup-mode current limit (5A typical), 4ms internal soft-start, SOIC8E package with exposed thermal pad, and OVP threshold programmability via external resistor divider.

Technical Context

The MP2497DN-LF-P implements current-mode control with integrated PWM comparator, error amplifier, and slope compensation to stabilize regulation under transient load changes. Its ISP/ISN differential current sense inputs enable precise 100mV current limit threshold and programmable short-circuit current reduction using external resistors RS1/RS2.

It features a fixed 100kHz oscillator, internal bootstrap regulator for high-side gate drive, and dedicated OVP comparator with 1.23V reference. Load-line compensation is implemented by injecting current into the FB node proportional to load current, enabling constant voltage at remote loads despite trace resistance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2497DN-LF-P is housed in an SOIC8E (exposed pad) package optimized for thermal performance: 8-pin surface-mount with GND-connected exposed pad for enhanced heat dissipation (θJC = 10°C/W). The exposed pad must be soldered to a solid GND plane per JEDEC MS-012 BA specification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP2494DN-LF-Z, MP2497DN-LF-P adds OVP programmability and line-drop compensation critical for USB and remote-load applications; versus LM5164QDDARQ1, it trades AEC-Q100 qualification for higher integration and lower system cost in non-automotive industrial settings.

Availability

MP2497DN-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive cigarette lighter adapters, USB power supplies, industrial 24V-to-5V point-of-load converters, and linear charger power supplies requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.

Supply support for MP2497DN-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MP2497 belongs to MPS's high-voltage buck converter product line, engineered for rugged industrial and automotive power conversion where wide input range, integrated protection, and layout simplicity are prioritized over ultra-high efficiency.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for MP2497DN-LF-P?

The absolute maximum input voltage is 60V, but the recommended operating range is 4.5V to 50V. Exceeding 50V risks violating the 150°C junction temperature limit under full load, especially in SOIC8E packages with limited thermal mass. Operation above 50V requires derating based on θJA and ambient conditions.

How is output overvoltage protection configured on this device?

OVP is set using an external resistor divider from VOUT to GND, connected to the OVP pin. With a fixed 1.23V internal reference, selecting R3 = 39kΩ and R4 = 10kΩ yields a 6V trip point. The OVP comparator disables the high-side switch immediately upon threshold crossing, followed by latched shutdown after a timer delay.

Can MP2497DN-LF-P operate with ceramic output capacitors only?

Yes - the control loop is stable with low-ESR ceramic capacitors (X5R/X7R), as confirmed in the datasheet's "Stable with Low ESR Output Ceramic Capacitors" feature. A minimum 22µF output capacitance is recommended; typical designs use 22µF + 100µF parallel ceramics for optimal ripple suppression and transient response.

What is the purpose of the ISP and ISN pins beyond current limiting?

ISP and ISN provide differential current sensing for both hiccup-mode current limiting and output line drop compensation. When used for compensation, the sensed current injects a proportional current into the FB node via internal 400kΩ gain path, raising the effective feedback voltage to counteract IR drop across PCB traces - maintaining constant voltage at the load.

Does MP2497DN-LF-P require an external bootstrap diode?

An external Schottky diode (e.g., BAT54) from VIN to BST is recommended for 5V input operation, high duty cycle (>65%), or VOUT >12V to ensure reliable bootstrap capacitor charging. The internal regulator suffices for 12V–24V inputs with moderate duty cycles, but external diode improves efficiency and startup reliability in marginal conditions.

How does the hiccup current limit behave during a sustained short circuit?

When VISP–VISN exceeds 100mV, the high-side switch turns off immediately. The internal soft-start circuit resets once FB falls below 0.3V, then initiates a full 4ms soft-start sequence before re-enabling switching. This on-off cycling repeats until the fault clears - limiting average power dissipation and preventing thermal runaway.

Is the SOIC8E package RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes - the "-LF" suffix in MP2497DN-LF-P explicitly denotes lead-free, RoHS-compliant packaging per EU Directive 2011/65/EU. The device uses matte tin lead finish and meets MPS green status requirements verified on their Quality Assurance page.