Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3416GQH-P

Overview

MP3416GQH-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-quiescent-current (9.5 µA), 1.1 A peak-current-mode step-up DC-DC converter with true output disconnect, adjustable low-battery detection (LBI/LBO), and down-mode operation when VIN > VOUT. It operates from 0.86 V input to deliver regulated 1.8–5.5 V outputs, enabling use in ultra-low-voltage battery-powered systems such as remote controllers and medical sensors.

For engineers reviewing the MP3416GQH-P datasheet, MP3416GQH-P pinout, MP3416GQH-P application, or MP3416GQH-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its 650 nA shutdown current, integrated P-channel synchronous rectifier, pulse-skip mode for light-load efficiency, thermal shutdown at 155 °C, and QFN-8 (1.5 mm × 2.0 mm) package with exposed thermal pad.

Technical Context

The MP3416GQH-P employs peak-current control with variable-frequency boundary conduction mode (BCM), delivering fast transient response and stable regulation across wide input (0.86–5.5 V) and output (1.8–5.5 V) ranges. Its internal NMOS/PMOS switch pair features 100 mΩ and 800 mΩ R_DS(ON), respectively, and supports up to 1.1 A switching current with 10 µs max on-time limiting.

It integrates dedicated circuitry for low-battery monitoring (0.4 V LBI threshold with 70 mV hysteresis), output disconnect during shutdown (<0.65 µA load leakage), and automatic down-mode transition when VIN exceeds VOUT by >0.2 V - all managed without external components beyond the feedback divider and LBI resistor network.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP3416GQH-P is housed in an 8-pin QFN package (1.5 mm × 2.0 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad for enhanced power dissipation (θ_JA = 110 °C/W). Pin numbering follows JEDEC MO-220 standard with Pin 1 index marked in top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-up converter applications.

Compared with TPS61291DRVR and MAX17222ETA+, MP3416GQH-P uniquely combines sub-µA shutdown, integrated battery detection, and true output disconnect in a 1.5 mm × 2.0 mm QFN - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-critical applications requiring both intelligence and isolation.

Availability

MP3416GQH-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical wearables, smart retail tags, gaming peripherals, and industrial handheld scanners requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP3416GQH-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 design centers across Asia and North America and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MP3416 belongs to MPS's ultra-low-I_Q boost converter product line, engineered specifically for energy-constrained portable electronics that demand extended battery life, intelligent power management, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required to start up the MP3416GQH-P?

The MP3416GQH-P requires a minimum start-up voltage of 1.25 V under typical conditions (R_LOAD = 1 kΩ), though it can operate continuously down to 0.86 V once started. Below 0.7 V, the under-voltage lockout (UVLO) disables the device to prevent erratic behavior.

How does the low-battery detection function work, and what external components are needed?

The LBI pin monitors a resistor-divided fraction of VIN; when voltage drops below 0.4 V, the open-drain LBO pin pulls low. A pull-up resistor (e.g., 100 kΩ to VOUT) is required on LBO. No additional ICs or comparators are needed - the threshold and hysteresis are internally fixed.

Does the MP3416GQH-P require an external Schottky diode?

No. The MP3416GQH-P integrates a P-channel synchronous rectifier on the OUT pin, eliminating the need for an external Schottky diode and reducing conduction losses, board area, and thermal stress in the power path.

What is the purpose of the exposed thermal pad on the QFN-8 package?

The exposed pad on the bottom of the QFN-8 package serves as the primary thermal and electrical ground connection. It must be soldered to a PCB copper pour with multiple thermal vias to achieve the specified θ_JA = 110 °C/W and ensure reliable operation at full 1.1 A load.

Can the MP3416GQH-P regulate output voltage higher than the input voltage when VIN exceeds VOUT?

Yes - in "down-mode", the MP3416GQH-P automatically reduces switching activity when VIN exceeds VOUT by >0.2 V, allowing near-lossless pass-through operation while maintaining regulation. This avoids unnecessary switching losses and improves overall system efficiency.

What is the maximum recommended output capacitance for stability?

The datasheet specifies a minimum output capacitance of 22 µF (X5R/X7R ceramic) for stability. While larger values (e.g., 47–100 µF) improve ripple suppression and transient response, exceeding 220 µF may destabilize the control loop due to increased phase lag in the feedback path.

How does pulse-skip mode improve efficiency at light loads?

In pulse-skip mode, the MP3416GQH-P reduces switching frequency and limits peak inductor current to ~350 mA, minimizing gate-drive and switching losses. This maintains ≥80% efficiency at 100–200 µA output current - significantly better than forced-PWM operation at the same load.