Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2497GN-A-Z

Overview

MP2497GN-A-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a monolithic 100kHz step-down DC/DC converter with programmable output over-voltage protection (OVP), 3A continuous output current, 4.5V–50V input range, and integrated 0.15Ω high-side MOSFET. It delivers stable 0.8V–25V adjustable output voltage with line/load regulation, used in automotive cigarette lighter adapters and USB power supplies requiring robust fault protection.

For engineers reviewing the MP2497GN-A-Z datasheet, MP2497GN-A-Z pinout, MP2497GN-A-Z application, or MP2497GN-A-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its programmable OVP threshold (1.23V reference), hiccup-mode current limiting, output line drop compensation capability, thermal shutdown at 150°C, and SOIC8E package with exposed pad for thermal management.

Technical Context

The MP2497GN-A-Z implements current-mode control with internal slope compensation and a fixed 100kHz oscillator. Its error amplifier integrates feedback deviation from 0.8V reference to regulate peak inductor current, while the PWM comparator compares sensed current plus ramp against EA output to determine switch on-time.

It supports dual current sensing via ISP/ISN pins for both hiccup current limit (100mV threshold) and programmable short-circuit current reduction using external resistors. Output line drop compensation is implemented by injecting load-proportional current into the FB divider based on RSENSE and trace resistance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2497GN-A-Z is housed in an SOIC8E package with exposed thermal pad, optimized for high-power density and thermal dissipation in space-constrained applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP2494DN-LF-P, MP2497GN-A-Z adds 14V input headroom, 1A higher current, and full line compensation - critical for automotive adapters. Versus LM5164QDDARQ1, it trades automotive qualification for simpler design, lower cost, and higher output current in non-AEC applications.

Availability

MP2497GN-A-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB power supplies, automotive cigarette lighter adapters, and industrial point-of-load conversion requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP2497GN-A-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 mixed-signal ICs for power management, motion control, and interface applications.

The MP2497 series belongs to MPS's high-voltage buck converter product line, designed specifically for automotive, industrial, and telecom power systems demanding wide input range, integrated protection, and minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for MP2497GN-A-Z, and what happens beyond that?

The absolute maximum input voltage is 60V per the datasheet. Operation above 50V violates recommended operating conditions and risks exceeding internal MOSFET breakdown voltage or damaging the bootstrap circuit. Sustained exposure to >60V will cause permanent damage due to junction avalanche or oxide rupture - transient spikes must be clamped externally using TVS diodes rated for 58V standoff.

Can MP2497GN-A-Z operate with an output voltage below 0.8V?

No - the internal feedback reference is fixed at 0.8V, and the error amplifier is not designed to regulate below this threshold. Attempting to set VOUT < 0.8V via resistor divider causes the FB pin voltage to fall below the reference, forcing the controller into continuous conduction mode and disabling regulation. Minimum output is strictly 0.8V.

How is the hiccup current limit threshold set, and can it be adjusted?

The hiccup current limit triggers when the ISP–ISN differential voltage reaches 100mV. This threshold is fixed internally, but the effective current limit is adjusted by changing the sense resistance: I_LIM = 100mV / R_SENSE. For example, a 33mΩ resistor sets ~3A limit. Short-circuit current can be further reduced using RS1/RS2 resistors per Figure 4 in the datasheet.

Is an external bootstrap diode required for reliable operation?

An external bootstrap diode (e.g., BAT54) is recommended - not required - when duty cycle exceeds 65% (e.g., VOUT > 32.5V at VIN = 50V) or when output voltage exceeds 12V. It ensures sufficient gate drive voltage during high-duty cycles where the internal bootstrap regulator may be insufficient, improving efficiency and preventing MOSFET dropout.

Does MP2497GN-A-Z support synchronization to an external clock?

No - the MP2497GN-A-Z uses a fixed internal 100kHz oscillator with no external sync pin or frequency adjustment capability. It cannot be synchronized to an external clock source. For synchronizable alternatives, consider MPS's MPQ4470 or MPQ4312 families, which include SYNC pins and adjustable frequency ranges.

What is the purpose of the exposed thermal pad on the SOIC8E package?

The exposed pad is electrically connected to GND and serves as the primary thermal conduction path from the die to the PCB. It must be soldered to a minimum 100mm² copper pour with ≥4 thermal vias to an inner ground plane. Failure to properly connect it results in junction temperature rise >30°C at 3A load, triggering premature thermal shutdown.

How does output line drop compensation affect feedback resistor selection?

Line drop compensation injects current into the top feedback resistor R1, effectively increasing its value dynamically with load current. Therefore, R1 must be selected first using Equation (7) from the datasheet (R1 = 400kΩ × R_TRACE / (6 × R_SENSE)), then R2 is calculated using standard feedback equation: R2 = R1 × 0.8V / (VOUT − 0.8V).