Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP5010SDQ-LF-P

Overview

MP5010SDQ-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a programmable current-limit load switch with integrated 40mΩ DMOS FET, adjustable 1.2–2.8A hold current and 3.1A trip current (RLIM=22Ω), 1.1ms default output slew rate, UVLO (3.6V) and overvoltage clamping (6.65V typ), used for hot-swap protection in PC cards and wireless modem data cards.

For engineers reviewing the MP5010SDQ-LF-P datasheet, MP5010SDQ-LF-P pinout, MP5010SDQ-LF-P application, or MP5010SDQ-LF-P equivalent, key selection criteria include adjustable current limit via external resistor, tri-state Enable/Fault pin behavior, thermal latch shutdown at 175°C, QFN10 (3mm×3mm) package thermal resistance (θJA = 50°C/W), and compatibility with 3.6–18V input rails.

Technical Context

The MP5010SDQ-LF-P implements a sense-FET-based current-limit architecture with internal charge pump driving the power FET gate, enabling low RDS(on) without external gate drive. Its dv/dt pin controls output voltage ramp time via external capacitor or floating connection (1.1ms default).

UVLO ensures turn-on only above 3.6V (with 0.4V hysteresis), while OVP clamps output to 6.65V when VCC exceeds threshold. The bi-directional Enable/Fault pin provides three-level signaling (low/mid/high) for enable control, thermal fault indication, and fault flag latching/reset via voltage level or UVLO cycling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP5010SDQ-LF-P uses a 10-pin QFN package (3mm × 3mm) with exposed thermal pad (VCC connected). Pin 6 is No Connect and must be left floating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP5010SDQ-LF-P, MP5013A offers superior thermal and electrical specs for new designs, while TPS259211 trades adjustability for speed and integration simplicity-neither replicates the dv/dt control or dual UVLO/OVP protection of the MP5010S.

Availability

MP5010SDQ-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hot-swap insertion, wireless modem data cards, and laptop ExpressCard slots requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for MP5010SDQ-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, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan.

The MP5010S belongs to MPS's programmable load switch product line, engineered specifically for robust hot-swap and inrush current control in portable and modular computing systems.

FAQ

What is the function of the N/C pin (Pin 6) on MP5010SDQ-LF-P?

Pin 6 is designated No Connect and must remain unconnected and electrically floating. It has no internal circuitry and is not bonded. Connecting it to any potential-including ground or VCC-violates the absolute maximum rating and may cause unpredictable behavior or device failure. The datasheet explicitly states "DO NOT CONNECT" for this pin.

How does the Enable/Fault pin indicate thermal shutdown?

During thermal shutdown, the Enable/Fault pin is actively driven to an intermediate voltage level (0.82–1.95V), distinct from its low (≤0.5V) or high (≥2.5V) states. This mid-level signal latches and remains until the fault is cleared by pulling the pin low or cycling VCC below UVLO (3.2V). It serves as both status indicator and fault flag storage.

Can MP5010SDQ-LF-P operate from a 3.3V input rail?

No. The MP5010SDQ-LF-P has a minimum UVLO turn-on threshold of 3.6V (typical), with guaranteed operation starting at 4.0V under recommended conditions. At 3.3V, the device remains disabled-output stays off and EN/FAULT is driven low. It is incompatible with 3.3V-only systems unless boosted or paired with a compatible supervisor.

What is the maximum allowable current limit resistor value for reliable operation?

The maximum RLIM is 100Ω, yielding a hold current of 0.5A and trip current of 1.8A. Beyond 100Ω, hold current drops below 0.5A, increasing susceptibility to false triggering under light-load transients. RLIM tolerance must be ≤1% to maintain current limit accuracy within datasheet specifications.

Does MP5010SDQ-LF-P require an external pull-up on the Enable/Fault pin?

No. The Enable/Fault pin features an internal 25μA (typ) current source that pulls it high when released, eliminating need for external pull-up. However, the pin's maximum voltage is clamped to 4.95V, making it safe to interface directly with 3.3V or 5V logic without level-shifting.

How is output overvoltage protection implemented?

OVP operates independently of current limit and thermal protection: when VCC exceeds ~6.65V (typ), internal circuitry clamps the SOURCE output to that voltage regardless of load current. This protects downstream 5V components from overvoltage stress during input rail faults, with no delay or dependency on external components.

Is MP5010SDQ-LF-P still recommended for new designs?

No. The datasheet explicitly states "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGNS" and directs users to MP5013A as the functional successor. MP5010SDQ-LF-P remains available for legacy support and existing production, but MP5013A offers improved RDS(on), thermal performance, and OVP accuracy for new implementations.