Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP38894DN-LF-Z
- Part No.:
- MP38894DN-LF-Z
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MP38894DN-LF-Z.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 4.5A 8SOICE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:864
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Product details
Overview
MP38894DN-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated 100mΩ high-side MOSFET and external low-side gate driver, delivering 4.5A continuous output from 4.5V–42V input, ±1.5% feedback voltage accuracy, fixed 420kHz switching frequency, and synchronizable operation up to 1.5MHz for noise-sensitive power rails in digital set-top boxes and flat-panel displays.
For engineers reviewing the MP38894DN-LF-Z datasheet, MP38894DN-LF-Z pinout, MP38894DN-LF-Z application, or MP38894DN-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4.5A output capability at wide VIN range, cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection with hiccup mode, thermal shutdown at 150°C, and SOIC8E exposed-pad package optimized for thermal performance in space-constrained industrial and consumer power supplies.
Technical Context
The MP38894DN-LF-Z implements fixed-frequency peak-current-mode control with internal 0.8V reference and error amplifier driving COMP node for loop compensation. Its architecture integrates a high-side MOSFET switch and dedicated BG driver output for external synchronous rectification, enabling >95% efficiency with ceramic output capacitors.
It features programmable soft-start via internal ramp, UVLO with 4.1V turn-on threshold and 880mV hysteresis, and bootstrap charging circuitry supporting floating gate drive for the external low-side FET. Frequency synchronization occurs on rising edge of external clock applied to EN/SYNC pin within 300kHz–1.5MHz range.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 4.5V to 42V - supports automotive battery, industrial 24V, and telecom 48V-derived rails without pre-regulation. |
| Continuous Output Current | 4.5A - enables single-chip 3.3V/5V/12V supply for SoC cores or display logic without parallel devices. |
| Feedback Voltage Accuracy | ±1.5% at 0.808V nominal - ensures tight output regulation across temperature and line/load variations. |
| Switching Frequency | Fixed 420kHz (±30%) - balances EMI, inductor size, and efficiency; synchronizable to 300kHz–1.5MHz for system-level noise coordination. |
| High-Side RDS(ON) | 100mΩ - minimizes conduction loss at full load, reducing thermal stress in SOIC8E package. |
| Thermal Shutdown Threshold | 150°C - protects die integrity during overload or poor PCB heatsinking; auto-recovery at ~140°C. |
| Cycle-by-Cycle OCP | 6.5A current limit - prevents MOSFET failure during short-circuit; enters hiccup mode when FB < 0.25V. |
Pinout & Package
MP38894DN-LF-Z uses a thermally enhanced 8-pin SOIC package with exposed pad (SOIC8E), rated for –40°C to +85°C ambient operation and featuring θJA = 50°C/W on 4-layer PCB.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 SW | Switch Node Output | Drives inductor; connects to external bootstrap capacitor and low-side MOSFET source; carries high di/dt switching current. |
| 2 BST | Bootstrap Supply | Provides floating bias for high-side gate driver; requires 0.1–1µF ceramic capacitor between BST and SW. |
| 3 VCC | BG Driver Bias Supply | Internal regulator output; decoupled with 1µF ceramic cap; powers bottom gate driver and analog circuitry. |
| 4 BG | Low-Side Gate Driver Output | Sinks/source up to 1A peak to drive external synchronous MOSFET gate; RSINK = 1Ω, RSOURCE = 4Ω. |
| 5 GND | Analog & Power Ground Reference | Reference for FB, EN/SYNC, and internal circuits; must be isolated from high-current return paths to avoid noise coupling. |
| 6 FB | Output Voltage Feedback Input | Monitors resistive divider output; 10nA input bias enables high-value resistor networks for low quiescent current. |
| 7 EN/SYNC | Enable Control & Clock Sync Input | Pull-high ≥2V to enable; pull-low ≤0.4V to disable with 5µs turnoff delay; accepts external clock 300kHz–1.5MHz. |
| 8 IN | Main Power Input | Accepts 4.5V–42V unregulated input; requires local 22µF X5R/X7R ceramic capacitor to suppress high-frequency ripple. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Synchronizable Gate Driver | Enables precise timing alignment with system clocks to reduce beat frequencies and EMI in multi-rail systems. |
| Stable with Low-ESR Ceramic Capacitors | Eliminates need for electrolytic or tantalum output caps, improving reliability and lifetime in consumer electronics. |
| Cycle-by-Cycle Overcurrent Protection with Hiccup Mode | Prevents thermal runaway during sustained overload by limiting duty cycle and entering safe intermittent restart. |
| Internal Soft-Start Ramp | Generates controlled 0–1.2V SS voltage to prevent output overshoot and inrush current during power-up. |
| Thermally Enhanced SOIC8E Package | Exposed pad soldered to PCB plane provides low θJA = 50°C/W, enabling 4.5A operation without heatsink in compact layouts. |
Applications
| Digital Set-Top Box Power | Personal Video Recorder (PVR) Core Supply |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powers ARM-based media processor and DDR memory interface in cable/satellite STBs requiring clean 1.2V/3.3V rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary buck controller providing regulated core voltage with fast transient response to video decode bursts. Use Value: 4.5A output and ±1.5% VFB accuracy maintain stable SoC operation during dynamic load steps up to 3A/µs. | Use Scenario: Supplies 5V/4.5A to HDD motor driver and MPEG decoder ASIC in PVR units with thermal constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current intermediate bus converter stepping down from 12V adapter to 5V distribution rail. Use Value: Synchronizable 420kHz operation avoids interference with video clock domains while maintaining >92% efficiency at full load. |
| Broadband Communications Gateway | Flat Panel Monitor Logic Supply |
Use Scenario: Generates 3.3V for Ethernet PHY, Wi-Fi module, and packet processing engine in DOCSIS 3.1 gateways. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main system power IC managing multiple downstream loads with coordinated EMI profile. Use Value: EN/SYNC pin allows synchronization to master system clock, suppressing conducted emissions in FCC/CE-certified designs. | Use Scenario: Delivers 12V/4.5A to LCD timing controller and backlight inverter in 24-inch monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-voltage buck stage converting 24V input to regulated panel logic rail with thermal robustness. Use Value: 42V max input rating and 150°C thermal shutdown ensure reliable operation during 24V supply transients and ambient temperatures up to 70°C. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MPQ38894-AEC1 | Automotive-grade variant with AEC-Q100 qualification, extended temp range (–40°C to +125°C), and enhanced ESD protection. | Required for infotainment head units and ADAS camera modules where automotive qualification is mandatory. | Select MPQ38894-AEC1 only when automotive compliance and higher junction temperature margin are required. |
| MP2315GJ-Z | Lower current (3A), smaller 8-pin QFN package, no external gate driver - fully integrated dual-MOSFET solution. | Suitable for cost-sensitive, lower-power applications like IoT hubs or portable displays where board space is critical. | Choose MP2315GJ-Z when 3A output suffices and external MOSFET layout complexity must be avoided. |
Compared with MPQ38894-AEC1, the MP38894DN-LF-Z offers identical electrical specs but lacks automotive qualification and higher-temp packaging; versus MP2315GJ-Z, it trades integration for higher current and design flexibility via external synchronous FET control.
Availability
MP38894DN-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for digital set-top boxes, personal video recorders, broadband communications gateways, and flat panel monitor logic supplies requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for MP38894DN-LF-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 mixed-signal ICs for power management, motion control, and interface applications.
The MP38894 belongs to MPS's high-voltage synchronous buck controller product line, designed specifically for industrial, consumer, and communications equipment needing robust 40V+ input capability, external FET flexibility, and precise synchronization in multi-rail systems.
FAQ
What is the minimum recommended input capacitance for MP38894DN-LF-Z?
A 22µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor is recommended at the IN pin to suppress high-frequency switching noise and limit surge current. This value ensures low impedance at 420kHz and maintains stability under 4.5A load steps. Larger values may improve hold-up time but are not required for basic operation.
Can MP38894DN-LF-Z operate without an external bootstrap diode?
Yes - the internal bootstrap charging circuit operates reliably without an external diode for most applications. An external IN4148 diode is only recommended when VOUT is 3.3V or 5V and duty cycle exceeds 65%, to improve efficiency by reducing BST capacitor discharge losses during high-duty cycles.
How does the hiccup-mode overcurrent protection behave during sustained short-circuit?
When FB voltage drops below 250mV due to overload, the oscillator frequency folds back and the device enters hiccup mode: it attempts periodic restarts every ~10ms, limiting average power dissipation and preventing thermal damage. Full recovery requires cycling EN or VIN.
What is the purpose of the exposed pad on the SOIC8E package?
The exposed pad serves as the primary thermal path to the PCB, lowering junction-to-board thermal resistance. It must be soldered to a large copper pour using ≥4 thermal vias to achieve the specified θJA = 50°C/W and sustain 4.5A continuous output without exceeding 150°C junction temperature.
Is MP38894DN-LF-Z compatible with ceramic output capacitors having 2mΩ ESR?
Yes - the MP38894DN-LF-Z is explicitly characterized and stabilized for use with low-ESR ceramic capacitors, including those with ESR as low as 2mΩ. Its internal compensation network eliminates need for series resistance, simplifying filter design and improving transient response.
What happens if the EN/SYNC pin is left floating?
The EN/SYNC pin has an internal pull-down, so floating condition results in automatic shutdown. To ensure reliable startup, EN/SYNC must be actively pulled to VIN or a logic-high voltage ≥2V. For synchronization, a clean CMOS clock signal within 300kHz–1.5MHz must be applied with proper slew rate and noise immunity.
Does MP38894DN-LF-Z require external compensation components?
No - the MP38894DN-LF-Z features an optimized internal compensation network. Only the external feedback resistor divider (R1/R2) and input/output capacitors are required. No external RC networks or type-II/type-III compensators are needed, reducing BOM count and layout complexity.
MP38894DN-LF-Z Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 42V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 15V
- Current - Output:
- 4.5A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 420kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOICE
MP38894DN-LF-Z FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MP38894DN-LF-Z through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MP38894DN-LF-Z on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MP38894DN-LF-Z reliable?
The price and inventory of MP38894DN-LF-Z are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MP38894DN-LF-Z is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MP38894DN-LF-Z?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MP38894DN-LF-Z transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MP38894DN-LF-Z?
MP38894DN-LF-Z orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MP38894DN-LF-Z order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MP38894DN-LF-Z?
For technical support, including MP38894DN-LF-Z datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MP38894DN-LF-Z requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MP38894DN-LF-Z is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MP38894DN-LF-Z products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MP38894DN-LF-Z meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MP38894DN-LF-Z?
All MP38894DN-LF-Z units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MP38894DN-LF-Z, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MP38894DN-LF-Z part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MP38894DN-LF-Z:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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