Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP2636GR-Z

Overview

MP2636GR-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 3.0A single-cell Li-ion/Li-Polymer switch-mode battery charger with integrated power path management (PPM) and 3.0A system boost capability. It operates in dual modes-charge mode (4.5V–6V input, up to 3.0A CC current, 4.2V/4.3V/4.35V programmable CV) and boost mode (2.5V–4.35V battery input, 4.2V–6V SYS output)-enabling seamless system power continuity in portable power banks and sub-battery applications.

For engineers reviewing the MP2636GR-Z datasheet, MP2636GR-Z pinout, MP2636GR-Z application, or MP2636GR-Z equivalent, key selection considerations include its bidirectional PPM architecture, real-time battery current monitoring via IB pin, programmable charge voltage accuracy (±0.5%), thermal regulation at 120°C, and integrated short-circuit protection in both charge and boost paths.

Technical Context

The MP2636GR-Z implements a dual-path power architecture: a high-side PMOS (25 mΩ R_DS(on)) and low-side NMOS (25 mΩ) for input-to-system pass-through, plus synchronous buck-boost switching for battery-to-SYS conversion. Its control logic autonomously selects between charge, boost, pass-through, and sleep modes based on VIN, PWIN, MODE, and EN states-verified in Table 1 of Rev.1.02.

It integrates three independent regulation loops: input voltage regulation (V_REG = 1.20 V ±1.7%), input current limiting (programmable up to 3.6 A), and battery charge termination (IBF = 150 mA). Boost-mode output current is set via OLIM resistor with ±15% accuracy across 0.77–2.55 A range, while charge current is set via ISET with ±12% tolerance at 3.0 A nominal.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP2636GR-Z is housed in a thermally enhanced QFN-30 package (4 mm × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad (Pin 27/28 PGND) for efficient heat dissipation in high-power portable designs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar single-cell battery charger with boost applications.

Compared with BQ25895RTWR and IP2326, MP2636GR-Z uniquely combines resistor-programmable analog control, integrated IVR, real-time IB monitoring, and 120°C thermal regulation-making it optimal for robust, MCU-light portable systems demanding reliability over configurability.

Availability

MP2636GR-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power bank systems, USB-C portable monitors, smart speaker backup supplies, and industrial handheld scanners requiring stable component supply with full production traceability.

Supply support for MP2636GR-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, motor drive, and automotive applications.

The MP2636 belongs to MPS's battery management product line, designed specifically for portable electronics requiring bidirectional power path control, high-efficiency switching charge, and reliable boost conversion without external controllers.

FAQ

What is the maximum sustainable input voltage for MP2636GR-Z?

The MP2636GR-Z supports up to 16 V absolute maximum input voltage on VIN, with guaranteed operation from 4.5 V to 6 V. This allows compatibility with USB PD 5 V sources and tolerance against transient surges common in unregulated wall adapters-critical for field reliability in consumer power banks.

How does the IB pin function in charge versus boost mode?

In charge mode, the IB pin outputs 0.36 V per ampere of charge current (e.g., 2.0 A → 0.72 V); in boost mode, it outputs 0.40 V per ampere of system discharge current (e.g., 2.5 A → 1.00 V). This dual-scaling enables direct MCU ADC interfacing for real-time battery current tracking without calibration switches or external gain stages.

Can MP2636GR-Z operate without an external NTC thermistor?

Yes-the NTC pin is optional. If left floating, the device disables battery temperature monitoring but retains all other protections (OVP, thermal shutdown, timer). For applications like sealed power banks where thermal sensing is unnecessary, omitting the NTC simplifies BOM and layout without compromising basic safety.

What happens during input over-current events?

When input current exceeds the programmed I_{IN_LMT}, the MP2636GR-Z initiates soft current limiting: it reduces charge current to maintain I_IN ≤ 125% of the limit for up to 120 µs; if exceeded longer, it fully disables the IN-to-SYS MOSFET. Recovery occurs automatically after 100 ms once current drops below threshold-no latch or reset required.

Is the 3.0 A boost current achievable across the full battery voltage range?

No-3.0 A is the maximum programmable limit, but actual deliverable current depends on battery voltage and SYS output. At 3.7 V battery and 5 V SYS, continuous 2.5 A is achievable; at 2.5 V battery, output current is limited to ~1.2 A due to efficiency and thermal constraints. The OLIM resistor must be selected considering worst-case V_BATT/V_SYS ratio.

How is charge termination determined?

Charge terminates when charge current falls to 150 mA (IBF threshold) during constant-voltage phase. The device then enters standby and auto-recharges when battery voltage drops 200–240 mV below full voltage (e.g., 4.35 V → 4.13 V). Termination is hardware-based-no software or I2C interaction needed.

Does MP2636GR-Z support USB OTG functionality?

Yes-its boost mode functions as a USB On-The-Go (OTG) power source. With MODE = HIGH and ACOK inactive, it delivers regulated 5 V to SYS from battery, meeting USB BC1.2 5 V ±5% and current-limit requirements. The VSYS(OVP) threshold (5.8–6.2 V) ensures compliance with USB voltage safety margins.