Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP5021GQV-P

Overview

MP5021GQV-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a 12V hot-swap protection IC with integrated 7mΩ R_DS(on) power FET, adjustable current limit (5–15A), ±5% current monitor accuracy, and fast short-circuit response (<200ns). It protects backplane-connected peripherals-including PC cards, disk drives, and laptop modules-by limiting inrush current, detecting damaged MOSFETs, and enforcing UVLO/OVLO thresholds.

For engineers reviewing the MP5021GQV-P datasheet, MP5021GQV-P pinout, MP5021GQV-P application, or MP5021GQV-P equivalent, key selection criteria include programmable soft-start via SS pin, auto-retry vs. latch-off fault recovery (controlled by AUTO pin), IMON-based current monitoring, and QFN22 (3×5mm) thermal performance with θ_JA = 46°C/W.

Technical Context

The MP5021GQV-P implements a sense-FET current-limit architecture with external R_SET programming, enabling precise 5–15A current regulation and secondary 25A short-circuit cutoff. Its internal charge pump drives the gate of the low-R_DS(on) power FET, eliminating external gate drivers.

Fault management uses dual-mode timing: a 200µA current source charges C_T at TIMER for configurable fault timeout (e.g., 1.23V threshold), while ENTM sets EN blanking time up to 1.23s. PG asserts high only when V_FB > 0.6V, V_GS > 3V, and V_OUT > V_IN − 1V-ensuring robust power-good sequencing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP5021GQV-P is housed in a thermally enhanced 22-pin QFN package (3mm × 5mm, exposed pad) optimized for PCB heat dissipation (θ_JC = 10°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar hot-swap protection applications.

Compared with TPS23521RGET and LT4256IMS-1, MP5021GQV-P uniquely combines ultra-low R_DS(on), full current monitoring, dual fault recovery modes, and compact QFN22 packaging-making it optimal for space-constrained, telemetry-aware hot-swap systems demanding both precision and resilience.

Availability

MP5021GQV-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PC card hot-swap, disk drive protection, and laptop expansion bay applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MP5021GQV-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 across Asia and North America.

The MP5021 belongs to MPS's hot-swap and eFuse product line, engineered specifically for 12V backplane protection in computing, storage, and industrial modular systems where reliability, thermal efficiency, and programmable fault response are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum soft-start time for MP5021GQV-P, and how is it achieved?

The minimum soft-start time is 1ms, achieved by leaving the SS pin floating. In this configuration, an internal 4µA current source pulls up the gate voltage, resulting in rapid V_GS ramp-up and minimal output slew delay. This mode is ideal for low-capacitance loads where inrush control is less critical than startup speed.

How does the MP5021GQV-P detect a damaged MOSFET during power-up?

During startup, the MP5021GQV-P monitors V_OUT relative to V_IN. If V_OUT exceeds V_IN − 1V before the power FET fully turns on, it infers a shorted pass FET. The FLTB pin immediately asserts low, and the device remains disabled until V_OUT falls below that threshold-preventing unsafe power delivery.

Can the PG pin operate independently of VIN and EN states?

Yes-the PG pin functions as an open-drain output with its own internal biasing. When pulled up externally (e.g., with 100kΩ to 3.3V), PG asserts low during VIN=0 or EN=low conditions, and transitions high only when V_FB > 0.6V, V_GS > 3V, and V_OUT > V_IN − 1V-enabling accurate power-good signaling even before main enable activation.

What is the role of the PD pin, and what resistance does it provide in discharge mode?

The PD pin connects internally to a 500Ω pull-down resistor to GND when tied directly to the OUT node. During disable, this discharges the output capacitor, preventing residual voltage from interfering with hot-removal safety. Floating PD disables discharge entirely; adding series resistance slows discharge rate proportionally.

How is the EN blanking time configured, and why is it important in hot-swap systems?

EN blanking time is set by a capacitor on the ENTM pin, using C_ENB ≈ τ_ENB/1.23 µF (e.g., 1µF → 1.23s). It prevents spurious EN deassertion caused by mechanical contact bounce or ESD transients during card insertion-ensuring the device completes startup sequencing before responding to EN state changes.

Does MP5021GQV-P support both auto-retry and latch-off fault modes simultaneously?

No-fault mode is selected exclusively via the AUTO pin: floating enables auto-retry (hiccup) mode with thermal recovery and restart timer; grounding forces latch-off mode requiring manual EN toggle or VIN cycle to resume. Both modes share identical OCP and thermal thresholds but differ only in post-fault behavior.

What is the maximum continuous output current rating, and how is it thermally limited?

The MP5021GQV-P supports 10A continuous output current at T_A = +25°C, derated per θ_JA = 46°C/W. At 10A and 7mΩ, conduction loss is ~0.7W; junction temperature rise is ~32°C above ambient. Thermal shutdown triggers at 145°C, ensuring safe operation within its 2.7W max continuous power dissipation limit.