Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3336GC-Z

Overview

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

For engineers reviewing the MP3336GC-Z datasheet, MP3336GC-Z pinout, MP3336GC-Z application, or MP3336GC-Z equivalent, this device is selected for compact high-power LED driving where precise current control, multi-mode flexibility, thermal robustness, and WLCSP-20 footprint are critical in mobile imaging subsystems.

Technical Context

The MP3336GC-Z implements a synchronous boost converter with selectable 1/2/3/4MHz switching frequency and fold-back capability-automatically reducing frequency to 1MHz (or down to ~100kHz) when headroom voltage exceeds VTH_PAS to improve efficiency and EMI. Its dual independent current sources regulate LED1/LED2 anode-side current with real-time load balancing (±130mV hysteresis) and adaptive ramp-up/down timing (1–8μs).

Operation is fully managed via 400kHz I²C interface with register-controlled mode selection (flash, torch, assist, indicator, 5V DC), fault monitoring (FT_VBATL, FT_IDC, FT_OTP), and safety features including VIN UVLO (2.35V), over-voltage (5.5V), over-temperature (150°C shutdown), and LED short/open detection-all coordinated through dedicated hardware pins (STR, TOR, TX) and internal state machine logic.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP3336GC-Z is housed in a 20-ball WLCSP package (1.6mm × 2.0mm, 0.4mm pitch) with bottom-side solder balls. Thermal performance is enhanced by GND ball placement and direct die-to-PCB conduction.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with RT8542GQW and ISL97646IRZ, the MP3336GC-Z uniquely combines dual-channel 2A precision current control, I²C configurability, hardware TX synchronization, and active V_F balancing-making it the only solution that simultaneously satisfies compact mobile form factor, multi-mode imaging requirements, and RF-friendly operation.

Availability

MP3336GC-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone camera flash systems, tablet imaging modules, and digital still camera subsystems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant WLCSP packaging.

Supply support for MP3336GC-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 power ICs, with core expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP3336 belongs to MPS's Mobile Imaging Power portfolio, engineered specifically for space-constrained, thermally sensitive camera flash applications demanding high current density, multi-mode flexibility, and robust protection in battery-powered devices.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable LED forward voltage difference before load balancing activates?

The MP3336GC-Z initiates automatic current redistribution when the absolute difference between LED1 and LED2 forward voltages exceeds 130mV (V_{LED_HYS}). This hysteresis ensures stable balancing without oscillation and limits per-channel current adjustment to ±10% to preserve overall brightness consistency.

How does the TX pin affect flash operation during cellular transmission?

When TX transitions high during flash mode, the MP3336GC-Z reduces LED current to the pre-programmed I_TX value within 5μs to suppress RF interference. Current resumes ramping to the original flash setting once TX returns low-enabling seamless coexistence with LTE/WiFi transceivers without firmware intervention.

Can the MP3336GC-Z operate in 5V DC mode while driving LEDs simultaneously?

Yes-the 5V DC mode configures the boost regulator for constant 5V output, but LED current sources remain functional if enabled. However, MPS recommends disabling LED_EN1/2 during 5V mode to prevent excessive thermal stress, as the 5V rail directly powers LEDs without current regulation headroom.

What protection mechanisms respond to a VOUT-to-GND short condition?

Upon detecting VOUT < 1V, the MP3336GC-Z immediately disables the synchronous PMOS switch, halts switching, sets FT_VOSC = 1, and resets operating mode to standby. The fault bit remains latched until read via I²C or cleared by power cycle-preventing battery drain and enabling system-level fault recovery.

Is the NTC pin mandatory for thermal management?

No-NTC is optional. When unused, the pin must be left floating (not grounded). If connected, it sources 35μA to an external NTC thermistor; crossing the programmed voltage threshold triggers FT_LEDHOT and optionally resets to standby mode based on LEDT_SD register setting.

How does switching frequency fold-back improve efficiency under light loads?

When headroom voltage (VOUT − VLED) exceeds the VTH_PAS threshold, the MP3336GC-Z reduces switching frequency from 2/3/4MHz to 1MHz. If headroom remains high, it further stretches frequency toward ~100kHz-lowering switching losses and improving light-load efficiency without compromising regulation stability.

What is the minimum recommended input capacitance for stable operation?

MPS specifies ≥10μF ceramic capacitance (X5R/X7R) placed as close as possible to the VIN and PGND pins. This minimizes input ripple, sustains current during high-dI/dt flash events, and prevents UVLO triggering during transient battery sag-critical for reliable multi-pulse operation.