Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3336GC-P

Overview

MP3336GC-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a dual-channel, synchronous current-mode PWM boost LED driver optimized for smartphone flash applications. It delivers up to 2A per channel in flash mode with ±7% current accuracy, supports I²C-controlled operation across flash/assist/torch/indicator/5V DC modes, and integrates VIN-to-VOUT disconnection and LED forward-voltage balancing for thermal efficiency in compact camera modules.

For engineers reviewing the MP3336GC-P datasheet, MP3336GC-P pinout, MP3336GC-P application, or MP3336GC-P equivalent, key selection criteria include dual 2A flash current capability, WLCSP-20 thermal performance, I²C programmable timing and protection registers, and compatibility with battery-limited mobile power rails (2.7–5.5V).

Technical Context

The MP3336GC-P implements a synchronous boost converter with selectable 1/2/3/4MHz switching frequency and fold-back control that dynamically reduces frequency to 1MHz or lower under high headroom conditions to maintain efficiency and EMI compliance. Its dual independent current sources regulate LED1/LED2 anode-side current with real-time load balancing (±130mV hysteresis) to minimize power loss from V_F mismatch.

Operation is fully managed via 400kHz I²C interface with dedicated STR/TOR/TX pins enabling hardware-synchronized flash triggering, torch activation, and RF transmission coordination. Protection logic includes adaptive thermal shutdown (130°C warning, 150°C cutoff), input DC current limiting (1–4.2A programmable), and low-battery voltage detection with stepwise current reduction during flash pulses.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP3336GC-P is housed in a WLCSP-20 (1.6mm × 2.0mm) package with 0.4mm pitch, optimized for ultra-thin mobile camera modules and thermally efficient GND-referenced LED cathode layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-channel flash LED driver applications.

Compared with RT8547GQW and ISL97646IRZ, the MP3336GC-P uniquely combines dual 2A flash capability, I²C-configurable multi-mode operation, active LED load balancing, and integrated TX/STR hardware sync-enabling higher integration, better thermal management, and richer feature sets in modern mobile imaging platforms.

Availability

MP3336GC-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone flash LED applications, tablet camera modules, and digital still camera assist lighting requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP3336GC-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 for consumer, computing, and industrial markets.

The MP3336 product line targets mobile imaging power management, delivering highly integrated, thermally optimized LED drivers with advanced protection and multi-mode flexibility for next-generation camera subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous current per channel in torch mode?

The MP3336GC-P supports up to 319mA per channel in torch mode, programmable in 1.25mA steps via I²C registers I1_TOR and I2_TOR. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) and input voltage range (2.7V–5.5V), with ±7% accuracy referenced to the programmed code.

How does the switching frequency fold-back function improve system performance?

When headroom voltage (V_OUT – V_LED) exceeds the VTH_PAS threshold, the MP3336GC-P automatically reduces switching frequency from 4MHz down to 1MHz or lower. This maintains high efficiency under light loads or high input voltages, reduces EMI emissions, and avoids audible noise from ceramic capacitors-without requiring external compensation components.

Can the MP3336GC-P drive LEDs with mismatched forward voltages?

Yes-the device includes active LED load balancing with 130mV hysteresis. When |V_LED1 – V_LED2| exceeds this threshold, it adjusts each channel's current within ±10% of nominal to equalize power dissipation. This improves overall efficiency and thermal distribution without requiring matched-bin LEDs in production.

What protection features activate during a VOUT-to-GND short condition?

Upon detecting V_OUT < 1V, the MP3336GC-P immediately disables the synchronous PMOS switch, disconnects VIN from VOUT, and sets the FT_VOSC fault bit. The device halts switching to prevent excessive battery current draw and holds the fault state until the register is read back or power is cycled.

Is the NTC temperature monitoring function mandatory for operation?

No-the NTC pin is optional. When unused, it must be left floating; the IC operates normally without NTC biasing. If enabled via the NTC_WD register, it sources 35µA to an external NTC resistor and triggers FT_LEDHOT when voltage drops below the programmed threshold-providing LED junction temperature monitoring independent of die temperature.

How is flash timing controlled when using hardware-level triggering?

In hardware level-trigger mode (STR_MOD=1, STR_LV=1), flash duration is determined by the STR signal pulse width, capped by the FL_TIM register timeout (e.g., 200ms). Current ramps up after STR goes high and terminates either when STR goes low or when the timer expires-ensuring precise synchronization with image sensor exposure windows.

Does the MP3336GC-P support simultaneous operation of flash and 5V DC output modes?

No-5V DC mode (5V_MOD=1) overrides LED current regulation and configures the boost converter as a fixed 5V voltage source. While LED_EN bits remain functional, driving LEDs directly from 5V risks thermal overload; the datasheet recommends disabling LED1/2_EN during 5V mode to prevent unintended current flow.