Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3801DH-LF-P

Overview

MP3801DH-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a high-voltage DC-to-AC converter IC designed specifically to drive electroluminescent (EL) lamps up to 5 in². It delivers a regulated ±95V (190VPP) AC output from a 2.5V–5.5V DC input, features dual independent oscillators for boost and H-bridge stages, and operates in an MSOP-8 package with 10nA shutdown current.

For engineers reviewing the MP3801DH-LF-P datasheet, MP3801DH-LF-P pinout, MP3801DH-LF-P application, or MP3801DH-LF-P equivalent, key selection considerations include EL lamp frequency adjustability (200–274 Hz), boost switching frequency tuning (50–200 kHz), RDS(ON) of 9 Ω at 100 mA, and split-supply capability for balanced AC drive.

Technical Context

The MP3801DH-LF-P integrates two functionally isolated stages: a boost converter that regulates up to +95V at CS, and an H-bridge driver that alternates VA and VB outputs to generate 190VPP AC across the EL lamp. Each stage uses its own oscillator-RSW_OSC sets boost switching frequency (85 kHz typical), while REL_OSC sets EL lamp drive frequency (240 Hz typical).

It supports direct enable/disable control via VEN logic thresholds (VEN-H = VDD – 0.3 V, VEN-L = VDD – 0.6 V), achieves 92% switching duty cycle, and maintains regulation under load with 9 Ω on-resistance for internal N-MOSFETs. The exposed-pad MSOP-8 package enables thermal dissipation with θJA = 150°C/W.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MP3801DH-LF-P is housed in an 8-pin MSOP package with exposed thermal pad connected to GND (Pin 4). Pin assignment is validated per Monolithic Power Systems Rev. 1.0 datasheet (April 2013).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar EL lamp driver applications.

Compared with MP3802DH-LF-P, the MP3801DH-LF-P offers proven reliability in legacy portable designs but lacks efficiency gains and frequency flexibility; versus MAX14521EASA+, it provides higher output voltage and full integration at the cost of less configurability and no multi-vendor sourcing path.

Availability

MP3801DH-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable multimedia players, LCD backlighting, and handheld wireless communication requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for MP3801DH-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 for power management, motor control, and display lighting applications.

The MP3801 belongs to MPS's EL lamp driver product line, engineered to replace bulky transformer-based inverters with compact, integrated solutions for battery-powered backlighting and status indication.

FAQ

Is MP3801DH-LF-P still recommended for new designs?

No. Monolithic Power Systems explicitly states "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGNS, REFER TO MP3802" in the datasheet. MP3802DH-LF-P is the designated successor with improved R_DS(ON), wider frequency range, and enhanced efficiency-making it the preferred choice for all new development.

What is the maximum EL lamp area supported by MP3801DH-LF-P?

The datasheet specifies support for EL lamps up to 5 square inches. This limit is based on the device's 190VPP output capability, 20 mA typical lamp current, and thermal constraints of the MSOP-8 package under continuous operation at +85°C.

Can MP3801DH-LF-P drive EL lamps at frequencies outside 200–274 Hz?

No-the REL_OSC resistor sets lamp frequency within 200–274 Hz per the datasheet's typical performance curves and absolute ratings. Operation outside this range risks unstable regulation, excessive current draw, or premature lamp degradation due to unvalidated drive conditions.

Does MP3801DH-LF-P require external MOSFETs for boost conversion?

No. The IC integrates the N-channel MOSFET for the boost stage, with LX serving as the drain node and CS as the regulated high-side output. Only an external inductor, input capacitor, and 100V NPO ceramic capacitor at CS are required for basic operation.

How is thermal performance managed in the MSOP-8 package?

Thermal management relies on soldering the exposed thermal pad (connected internally to GND) to a dedicated PCB copper pour. With θJA = 150°C/W and θJC = 65°C/W, proper pad layout and grounding reduce junction temperature rise by up to 40°C under full-load conditions.

What happens when RSW_OSC or REL_OSC is left floating?

Leaving either pin floating results in undefined oscillator behavior and potential malfunction. The datasheet mandates connecting RSW_OSC and REL_OSC to VDD or GND via resistors-or pulling them directly to VDD/GND-to ensure deterministic frequency control and stable startup/shutdown sequencing.

Is MP3801DH-LF-P RoHS compliant?

Yes. The "-LF" suffix in MP3801DH-LF-P denotes lead-free, RoHS-compliant packaging per Monolithic Power Systems' specification. Full compliance documentation-including test reports and material declarations-is available upon request from Aetrix Electronics.