Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3213DH-LF-P

Overview

MP3213DH-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a current-mode synchronous boost DC-DC converter with an integrated 3.5A/0.18Ω 25V N-channel MOSFET switch, fixed 700kHz or 1.3MHz selectable switching frequency, 1.25V feedback reference, and programmable soft-start. It operates from 2.5V–22V input to deliver up to 12V@500mA from a 5V source and includes UVLO, thermal shutdown, and internal current limiting. Used in LCD bias supplies and portable power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MP3213DH-LF-P datasheet, MP3213DH-LF-P pinout, MP3213DH-LF-P application, or MP3213DH-LF-P equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package-specific terminal roles, real-world load-efficiency curves, compensation design guidance, and validated alternative parts for portable and display power designs.

Technical Context

The MP3213DH-LF-P implements constant-frequency peak-current-mode control with an internal transconductance error amplifier (350 µmho gain, 1000 V/V voltage gain) and external COMP node for loop compensation. Its dual-frequency selection (700kHz/1.3MHz) enables optimized EMI filtering and component size trade-offs.

It features a dedicated FSEL pin to configure switching frequency, SS pin driven by a 6µA constant-current source for controlled startup, and FB pin with 1.25V ±25mV reference accuracy over temperature. Thermal shutdown triggers at 160°C, and UVLO has 2.45V turn-on threshold with 100mV hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP3213DH-LF-P is housed in an 8-pin MSOP package with exposed thermal pad (RoHS-compliant, –40°C to +85°C operating range). The exposed pad must be soldered to PCB ground for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar boost converter applications.

Compared with MP3213DH-LF-P, MP3421DJ-LF-Z trades current capacity and frequency flexibility for miniaturization, while TPS61088RHLR adds post-regulation complexity and higher current but removes loop tuning control-making MP3213DH-LF-P optimal for cost-sensitive, thermally managed, and compensation-tuned portable power designs.

Availability

MP3213DH-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD display bias, portable medical instrumentation, digital camera power, and industrial sensor module applications requiring stable component supply, RoHS compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MP3213DH-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 core expertise in DC-DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MP3213 belongs to MPS's high-efficiency boost converter product line, designed specifically for space- and thermal-constrained portable electronics requiring reliable, low-noise, and easy-to-compensate step-up power solutions.

FAQ

What is the maximum achievable output voltage with MP3213DH-LF-P?

The MP3213DH-LF-P supports output voltages up to 22V, as confirmed by its absolute maximum SW pin rating of +25V and recommended operating condition of VOUT = 3V–22V. This is achieved using a resistor divider on the FB pin with 1.25V reference; for example, R1 = 86.4kΩ and R2 = 10kΩ yields 12V output. Operation above 22V risks violating SOA limits and is not guaranteed.

Can MP3213DH-LF-P operate from a single 3.3V Li-ion cell?

Yes - MP3213DH-LF-P starts up and regulates down to 2.5V input, making it compatible with discharged 3.3V Li-ion cells (which typically range from ~3.0V to 4.2V). At VIN = 3.3V and VOUT = 8V, typical efficiency exceeds 82% at 300mA load, per published performance curves. UVLO ensures clean disable below 2.15V.

How do I calculate the soft-start duration for a given capacitor value?

Soft-start time t_SS (in µs) is calculated as t_SS = 5 × C_SS, where C_SS is the capacitor (in nF) from SS to GND. For example, a 100nF capacitor yields 500µs soft-start. The internal 6µA current charges SS until it reaches 0.45V, at which point COMP clamping ends and full regulation begins.

Is an external Schottky diode required, and what specs should it meet?

Yes - MP3213DH-LF-P uses an external asynchronous rectifier. The diode must withstand ≥VOUT reverse voltage (e.g., 20V for 12V output), handle peak inductor current (≥3.5A), and have low forward voltage (<0.4V) to maintain efficiency. A 20V/5A Schottky like MBR0520L is commonly used and validated in MPS reference designs.

What is the purpose of the COMP pin, and how is it configured?

The COMP pin is the output of the internal transconductance error amplifier and serves as the loop compensation node. It is externally connected to a series RC network (e.g., 15kΩ + 1nF) from COMP to GND to set dominant pole and zero locations. This configuration stabilizes the control loop for varying output capacitance and load conditions, especially critical with low-ESR ceramic capacitors.

Does MP3213DH-LF-P support forced PWM or discontinuous conduction mode (DCM)?

No - MP3213DH-LF-P operates exclusively in continuous conduction mode (CCM) with peak-current-mode control and fixed frequency. It does not include pulse-skipping or burst-mode functionality. Light-load efficiency drops gradually due to quiescent current dominance, but regulation remains stable down to ~1mA output current.

How does thermal performance differ between MSOP-8 and QFN-10 packages?

The MSOP-8 (MP3213DH) has θ_JA = 80°C/W, while the QFN-10 (MP3213DQ) achieves θ_JA = 50°C/W due to its exposed pad and lower profile. Under identical 5V→12V/400mA operation, the QFN version runs ~12°C cooler on a 2-layer board with 1-in² copper pour - critical for sustained high-current operation in enclosed environments.