Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP5010SDQ-LF-Z

Overview

MP5010SDQ-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a programmable current-limit switch IC designed for hot-swap and load protection in 5V systems. It integrates a 40mΩ DMOS power FET, supports adjustable current limit (1.2–2.8A hold, 3.1A trip with 22Ω resistor), provides dv/dt-controlled soft-start via external capacitor, and features UVLO (3.6V threshold), overvoltage clamping (6.65V typ), and thermal latch shutdown (175°C). Used in PC Cards and wireless modem data cards to prevent inrush damage and backplane voltage droop.

For engineers reviewing the MP5010SDQ-LF-Z datasheet, MP5010SDQ-LF-Z pinout, MP5010SDQ-LF-Z application, or MP5010SDQ-LF-Z equivalent, key selection considerations include its QFN10 (3mm×3mm) package, enable/fault tri-state interface, I-Limit resistor programming, dv/dt pin slew-rate control, and thermal fault signaling via mid-level voltage on EN/FAULT.

Technical Context

The MP5010SDQ-LF-Z implements a sense-FET-based current-limit architecture with internal charge-pump gate drive, enabling low R_DS(on) (40mΩ) without external biasing. Its EN/FAULT pin operates as a bidirectional, three-level interface-low disables and clears faults, mid signals thermal shutdown, high enables after delay-and requires no external pull-up due to integrated 25μA current source.

Protection logic combines independent thresholds: UVLO (3.6V rising edge, 0.4V hysteresis), OVP clamping (6.65V typ at V_CC=8V), and thermal shutdown (175°C latched). Current limiting uses external R_LIMIT to set both trip (e.g., 3.1A) and hold (e.g., 2A) levels, while dv/dt pin capacitance (e.g., 0pF → 1.1ms rise time) controls output voltage slew rate during startup.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP5010SDQ-LF-Z uses a QFN10 (3mm × 3mm) package with exposed thermal pad (V_CC). Pin 6 is No Connect and must be left floating; the exposed pad is electrically connected to V_CC and requires PCB vias for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP5010SDQ-LF-Z, MP5013A offers higher current capability and better thermal efficiency for upgraded designs, while TPS2557DRCT trades adjustability for ultra-fast fault response and reverse-blocking-making each suitable for distinct protection priorities in 5V load-switching systems.

Availability

MP5010SDQ-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hot-swap card insertion, wireless modem data card protection, and laptop expansion slot power management requiring stable component supply across industrial and embedded OEM programs.

Supply support for MP5010SDQ-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 automotive applications.

The MP5010S product line delivers integrated hot-swap and load-protection solutions targeting space-constrained, high-reliability portable and modular computing platforms-prioritizing low R_DS(on), programmable protection, and autonomous fault handling.

FAQ

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

Pin 6 is a no-connect terminal with no internal bond wire or circuit connection. It must be left unconnected and floating on the PCB. Routing traces or soldering to this pin may cause mechanical stress or unintended coupling, violating the device's absolute maximum ratings and potentially degrading thermal performance or ESD robustness.

How does the EN/FAULT pin indicate thermal shutdown?

During thermal shutdown, the EN/FAULT pin is actively driven to an intermediate voltage level (0.82–1.95V) by internal circuitry, which is distinct from its low (≤0.5V) or high (≥2.5V) states. This mid-level signal is latched and persists until the pin is pulled low externally or V_CC drops below UVLO, providing unambiguous fault status without host polling.

Can MP5010SDQ-LF-Z operate reliably at 18V input?

Yes-MP5010SDQ-LF-Z supports up to 18V input per absolute maximum ratings, but its overvoltage clamp activates at ~6.65V (typical) when V_CC exceeds 8V. At 18V, the output is clamped, limiting downstream voltage; conduction losses increase significantly, so thermal design must ensure θ_JA ≤50°C/W and ambient ≤85°C to avoid sustained thermal shutdown.

What is the minimum recommended copper area for the exposed pad?

The QFN10 exposed pad (V_CC) requires ≥4 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) connecting to an inner ground plane, plus ≥100mm² of top-layer copper pour. This achieves the specified θ_JA = 50°C/W on a 4-layer JEDEC board; reducing copper area increases junction temperature and risks premature thermal shutdown under 2A continuous load.

Is MP5010SDQ-LF-Z RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes-MP5010SDQ-LF-Z carries the "-LF" suffix indicating full compliance with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and MPS green policy. All die, bond wires, and package materials are lead-free, and the device meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL3) for standard SMT reflow processes.

Why does the datasheet state "Not Recommended for New Designs"?

This designation reflects Monolithic Power Systems' official recommendation to adopt the MP5013A-a direct successor with enhanced specs (lower R_DS(on), improved thermal resistance, wider current range). MP5010SDQ-LF-Z remains fully functional and supported, but MP5013A is preferred for new schematics requiring higher performance or long-term roadmap alignment.

How is current limit set using the I-Limit pin?

A resistor (R_LIMIT) is connected between the I-Limit pin (Pin 7) and SOURCE (Pins 1–5). Its value determines both trip current (e.g., 3.1A at 22Ω) and hold current (e.g., 2A at 22Ω), per Table 2 in the datasheet. The relationship is inverse: smaller R_LIMIT yields higher current limits, and tolerance directly impacts protection accuracy.