Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP5000ADQ-LF-Z

Overview

MP5000ADQ-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a programmable current-limit switch IC designed for hot-swap and load protection in 12V systems. It integrates a 40mΩ DMOS power FET, adjustable 1–5A current limit via external resistor, 0.9ms default slew-rate control, UVLO (8.5V typ), and overvoltage clamping at 15V. Used to protect downstream circuitry during inrush and short-circuit events in laptop PC card slots.

For engineers reviewing the MP5000ADQ-LF-Z datasheet, MP5000ADQ-LF-Z pinout, MP5000ADQ-LF-Z application, or MP5000ADQ-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include verified thermal latch behavior at 175°C, tri-state Enable/Fault signaling with mid-level fault indication, and QFN-10 (3mm×3mm) package compatibility with exposed thermal pad routing.

Technical Context

The MP5000ADQ-LF-Z implements a sense-FET-based current-limit architecture with internal charge-pump gate drive enabling low R_DS(on). Its dv/dt pin controls output voltage ramp time via external capacitor or floats for fixed 0.9ms rise, while I-Limit pin sets trip (4.7A) and hold (3.6A) thresholds using a 22Ω resistor.

It features integrated protection logic: UVLO disables output below 8.5V, OVP clamps source to 15V when V_CC exceeds 17V, and thermal shutdown latches off at 175°C with fault signaled via 0.82–1.95V mid-level on Enable/Fault pin - all without external components beyond R_LIMIT and C_dv/dt.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP5000ADQ-LF-Z uses a QFN-10 (3mm × 3mm) package with exposed thermal pad (V_CC connection). The 10-pin layout includes five SOURCE pins (6–10) paralleled for low-inductance current path, GND (Pin 1), dv/dt (Pin 2), Enable/Fault (Pin 3), I-Limit (Pin 4), and NC (Pin 5).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable current-limit switch applications.

Compared with TPS25940A and AP22653W, MP5000ADQ-LF-Z uniquely combines analog-programmable slew rate, latch-type thermal shutdown, and tri-state Enable/Fault signaling in a QFN-10 package-making it optimal for space-constrained hot-swap systems requiring deterministic fault response without microcontroller overhead.

Availability

MP5000ADQ-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hot-swap insertion, PC card power management, and laptop battery charging path applications requiring stable component supply across industrial and computing product lifecycles.

Supply support for MP5000ADQ-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 power ICs, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan.

The MP5000A product line delivers integrated current-limit switches for robust load protection in portable and embedded systems, emphasizing analog configurability, thermal resilience, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended copper area for thermal management of MP5000ADQ-LF-Z?

The datasheet specifies a 0.5 in² (322 mm²) copper pad with thermal vias under the exposed V_CC pad for 4.2A continuous current at 80°C ambient. For 5A operation, increase copper area and add ≥6 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) to maintain junction temperature ≤125°C.

Can the dv/dt pin be left floating, and what happens if it is?

Yes - the dv/dt pin is internally biased and floats by default, resulting in a typical 0.9ms output voltage rise time (10% to 90%). No external capacitor is required unless slower ramp rates (e.g., 2–23ms) are needed to meet EMI or connector arcing requirements.

How does the Enable/Fault pin indicate thermal shutdown?

During thermal shutdown, the Enable/Fault pin drives to a mid-level voltage between 0.82V and 1.95V (typical 1.4V), distinct from low (fault clear) or high (enabled) states. This allows monitoring circuits to distinguish thermal faults from UVLO or overcurrent events.

What is the maximum allowable voltage on the I-Limit pin?

The I-Limit pin must remain within –0.3V to 6V per absolute maximum ratings. Since it connects directly to SOURCE through the current-setting resistor, its voltage tracks the output voltage - limiting operation to ≤18V input ensures I-Limit stays within safe range.

Does MP5000ADQ-LF-Z support parallel operation for higher current?

No - the device lacks current-sharing capability or synchronization inputs. Parallel use risks unequal current distribution due to R_DS(on) mismatch and uncontrolled thermal coupling, potentially triggering premature thermal shutdown in one unit.

What is the purpose of the N/C pin, and can it be grounded?

Pin 5 is a true no-connect with no internal bond wire or circuit connection. It must remain unconnected - grounding or routing it may cause mechanical stress on the die or contamination risk during assembly, violating JEDEC MO-229 packaging standards.

How is the hold current different from trip current in overload protection?

When overload occurs, MP5000ADQ-LF-Z first enters constant-current "hold" mode (e.g., 3.6A at RLIM=22Ω) to sustain limited current without immediate shutdown. Only if this condition persists long enough to raise die temperature to 175°C does thermal latch activate - providing graceful overload handling before catastrophic failure.