Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3370GN-P

Overview

MP3370GN-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a fixed-frequency, peak-current-mode boost LED driver IC with integrated 100mΩ/50V low-side MOSFET, designed to regulate up to 38V output for single-string medium-to-high current LED applications. It supports analog and PWM dimming, delivers up to 300mA LED current (set via ISET resistor), and features cycle-by-cycle current limiting, 43.5V over-voltage protection, and thermal shutdown.

For engineers reviewing the MP3370GN-P datasheet, MP3370GN-P pinout, MP3370GN-P application, or MP3370GN-P equivalent, key selection criteria include input voltage range (3.5–36V), LED current accuracy (±2.5% at 300mA), SOIC8-EP thermal performance (θJA = 50°C/W), and dual dimming mode behavior (PWM <1kHz, analog >5kHz).

Technical Context

The MP3370GN-P implements a fixed-frequency (350–450kHz) peak-current-mode control architecture with internal 5V LDO (VCC) powering gate drive and logic. Its error amplifier output (COMP) interfaces with external RC compensation to stabilize loop response across wide VIN (3.5–36V), VOUT (≤38V), and load (up to 300mA) variations.

Protection functions are tightly coupled to pin-level sensing: SW pin monitors over-voltage (41–46V latch-off), LED pin detects open/short conditions (via voltage threshold and timing counters), and EN/DIM pin enables three distinct operational modes-enable/disable, PWM dimming (<1kHz), and analog dimming (>5kHz)-with no external mode-select logic required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MP3370GN-P is housed in a thermally enhanced SOIC8-EP package with exposed pad soldered to PCB ground plane for improved θJC (10°C/W) and power dissipation (2.5W at TA=25°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LT3756EMSE#PBF and TPS61165DRVR, the MP3370GN-P uniquely balances 38V output, integrated 100mΩ MOSFET, dual dimming mode auto-detection, and comprehensive latch-off protections-making it optimal for mid-power industrial and automotive LED systems requiring reliability and design simplicity.

Availability

MP3370GN-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD backlighting, architectural accent lighting, and automotive interior lighting requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP3370GN-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 power management ICs, including DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and motor drivers, with global manufacturing and quality certifications.

The MP3370 belongs to MPS's high-efficiency LED driver product line, engineered specifically for single-string boost applications demanding precise current regulation, robust fault handling, and seamless integration into space-constrained industrial and automotive lighting systems.

FAQ

What is the recommended ISET resistor value for 250mA LED current?

Using the formula R_ISET(kΩ) = 7470 / I_LED(mA), a 29.88kΩ resistor yields 250mA. Standard E96 value 29.4kΩ gives 254mA (±1.6% deviation), well within ±2.5% spec. Place resistor directly between ISET and GND with shortest possible trace.

Does MP3370GN-P support true analog dimming without PWM frequency constraints?

No-it requires a PWM signal >5kHz on EN/DIM to enter analog dimming mode, where LED current amplitude scales linearly with duty cycle. Below 5kHz, it defaults to PWM dimming (current chopping). True DC analog dimming (e.g., voltage-controlled) is not supported.

How does the MP3370GN-P respond to an open LED string fault?

When the LED string opens, the LED pin voltage drops near GND while SW voltage rises. The IC continues switching until SW reaches 43.5V OVP threshold, then latches off permanently until power cycle. No automatic retry occurs to prevent capacitor overvoltage.

Can the MP3370GN-P operate with input voltage below 3.5V?

No-its absolute minimum operating VIN is 3.5V per datasheet. Below this, UVLO prevents startup. During cold-crank events, if VIN dips below 2.8V (UVLO falling threshold), the IC shuts down and remains disabled until VIN exceeds 3.2V (rising threshold) with hysteresis.

What is the maximum allowable inductor DCR for stable operation at 300mA?

Inductor DCR should be ≤50mΩ to limit resistive loss and maintain efficiency >90%. Higher DCR increases I²R loss, raises die temperature, and may trigger thermal shutdown under full-load, continuous operation-especially in enclosed enclosures.

Is the exposed pad of the SOIC8-EP package electrically connected internally?

Yes-the exposed pad is internally connected to GND and must be soldered to a PCB ground plane. It serves as primary thermal path and part of the power ground return; floating or unconnected pad degrades θJA by >30% and risks thermal shutdown under load.