Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP5011DQ-LF-P

Overview

MP5011DQ-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a 12V, 5A programmable current-limit load switch with integrated 44mΩ DMOS FET, adjustable slew rate (1.4–22.5ms), and tri-state Enable/Fault pin for hot-swap protection in PC cards and laptops. It provides over-voltage clamping (13.8–16.2V), under-voltage lockout (7.7–9.3V), and thermal latch shutdown (150–200°C).

For engineers reviewing the MP5011DQ-LF-P datasheet, MP5011DQ-LF-P pinout, MP5011DQ-LF-P application, or MP5011DQ-LF-P equivalent, key selection criteria include adjustable current limit (1–5A via external resistor), dv/dt-controlled inrush suppression, fault signaling capability, and QFN10 (3×3mm) thermal performance with exposed VCC pad.

Technical Context

The MP5011DQ-LF-P implements a sense-FET-based current-limit architecture where an external resistor between I-LIMIT and SOURCE sets trip (e.g., 5.3A at 15.4Ω) and hold (e.g., 4.5A) thresholds. Its internal charge pump enables full gate drive for low R_DS(on) (44mΩ typ.) without external bias.

Thermal protection uses a latched shutdown at 150–200°C with hysteresis; over-voltage protection clamps output to 13.8–16.2V when V_CC exceeds 17V; under-voltage lockout disables output below 7.7V with 0.8V hysteresis. The Enable/Fault pin operates as a bidirectional 3-level interface (low/mid/high) for enable control and fault reporting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP5011DQ-LF-P is housed in a thermally enhanced QFN10 package (3×3mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed VCC pad for improved power dissipation (θ_JA = 50°C/W on 4-layer board).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS2557DRBR and NIS5132MN, MP5011DQ-LF-P uniquely combines resistor-programmable current limit (1–5A), user-adjustable dv/dt (1.4–22.5ms), and integrated over-voltage clamping - enabling robust hot-swap in 12V systems where load variability and input transients coexist.

Availability

MP5011DQ-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hot-swap card insertion, PCMCIA power control, and laptop ExpressCard protection requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MP5011DQ-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 MP5011 belongs to MPS's programmable load switch product line, engineered specifically for hot-swap and inrush-controlled power distribution in portable and industrial computing platforms.

FAQ

What is the minimum external resistor value for 5A current limit?

The datasheet specifies a 15.4Ω resistor sets 4.5A hold and 5.3A trip current at V_CC = 12V. Lower resistance increases current limit, but 15.4Ω is the smallest validated value for 5A operation. Using <15.4Ω risks exceeding safe SOA limits under short-circuit conditions without heatsinking.

Can the dv/dt pin be left unconnected for fastest turn-on?

Yes - leaving the dv/dt pin floating yields a default 1.4ms (typ.) output rise time (10%–90%). This is the shortest guaranteed ramp time. Adding capacitance extends it linearly (e.g., 1nF → 22.5ms), but no capacitor is required for basic inrush control.

How does the Enable/Fault pin indicate thermal shutdown?

During thermal fault, the Enable/Fault pin drives to an intermediate voltage (0.82–1.95V), distinct from low (disable/clear) and high (enable). This mid-level state persists until the fault is manually cleared by pulling the pin low or cycling V_CC below UVLO threshold (7.7V).

Is the NC pin electrically isolated or internally tied?

Pin 5 is designated "NC - DO NOT CONNECT" in the datasheet and functional block diagram. It is not bonded and has no internal connection. Leaving it floating is mandatory; any connection may cause unpredictable behavior or damage.

What is the maximum continuous output current at 85°C ambient?

At T_A = 85°C with standard PCB layout (0.5-in² copper), the datasheet specifies 2.3A continuous output. This derating accounts for thermal resistance (θ_JA = 50°C/W) and maximum junction temperature (125°C), ensuring reliable operation without thermal shutdown.

Does the over-voltage clamp activate during normal 12V operation?

No - the clamp activates only when V_CC exceeds ~17V, limiting output to 13.8–16.2V. At nominal 12V input, the device operates in linear regulation mode with 44mΩ R_DS(on), and the clamp remains inactive and non-conductive.

Can multiple MP5011DQ-LF-P devices share one Enable/Fault bus?

Yes - the Enable/Fault pin supports wired-NOR configuration. Up to three devices can tie their Enable/Fault pins together with a single 10kΩ pull-up. A thermal fault on any device pulls the shared line to mid-level, signaling all devices to monitor and coordinate response.