Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP6231DH-LF

Overview

MP6231DH-LF from Monolithic Power Systems is a dual-channel, current-limited power distribution switch with 500mA continuous per channel, 85mΩ R_DS(on), and 2.7V–5.5V input range. It integrates thermal shutdown, under-voltage lockout, reverse current blocking, and open-drain FLAG outputs for over-current detection-designed for USB power distribution and hot-swap load control in portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MP6231DH-LF datasheet, MP6231DH-LF pinout, MP6231DH-LF application, or MP6231DH-LF equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 500mA current limit accuracy, 8ms FLAG deglitch timing, active-high enable logic (MP6231 variant), MSOP-8E package with exposed pad for thermal performance, and dual independent channel control with fault reporting.

Technical Context

The MP6231DH-LF implements two independent N-channel MOSFET power switches with integrated current-limit sensing and thermal foldback. Each channel enters constant-current mode at ~550–1100mA trip threshold and shuts down thermally above 140°C with 20°C hysteresis.

Its enable architecture supports TTL/CMOS-compatible active-high logic (EN1/EN2), while FLAG1/FLAG2 provide open-drain, 8ms-deglitched fault signals indicating over-current on respective outputs-without false triggering during power-up or UVLO events.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP6231DH-LF is housed in an 8-pin MSOP package with exposed thermal pad (MSOP8E), optimized for PCB heat dissipation. The exposed pad must be soldered to a GND-connected copper area to maintain θ_JA ≤ 55°C/W and support full 500mA/channel operation at elevated ambient temperatures.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-channel current-limited power switch applications.

Compared with TUSB2036IPWR and TPS2051BDBVR, MP6231DH-LF provides true dual-channel independence, integrated thermal shutdown, and lower on-resistance in a thermally enhanced MSOP8E package-making it optimal for space-constrained, safety-critical portable power routing where channel autonomy and fault resilience are mandatory.

Availability

MP6231DH-LF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone peripheral power, USB 2.0 host port control, notebook PC ExpressCard slot, and portable GPS receiver power management requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for MP6231DH-LF 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 MP6231/MP6232 product line delivers integrated, current-limited power distribution switches for portable and embedded systems-designed to replace discrete MOSFET + sense resistor + comparator solutions with higher reliability and smaller footprint.

FAQ

What is the logic polarity of EN1 and EN2 on MP6231DH-LF?

EN1 and EN2 are active-high inputs per the MP6231 designation. They enable their respective channels when driven to ≥2V (logic high), and disable them when ≤0.8V (logic low). This differs from the MP6232 variant, which uses active-low enables.

Does MP6231DH-LF support reverse current blocking when disabled?

Yes. When either channel is disabled (ENx = low), the internal N-MOSFET body diode is reverse-biased, and the device actively blocks reverse current flow from OUTx back to IN. Measured reverse leakage is ≤0.2μA at OUTx = 5.5V and IN = 0V.

How does the FLAG pin behave during thermal shutdown versus over-current events?

The FLAG pin asserts low after an 8ms deglitch delay for over-current faults but responds immediately-without deglitching-to thermal shutdown or UVLO conditions. This allows fast thermal fault detection while rejecting transient current spikes.

What is the maximum continuous power dissipation for MP6231DH-LF in MSOP8E package?

At +25°C ambient, the MSOP8E package supports up to 2.27W continuous power dissipation. This assumes proper PCB layout with the exposed pad soldered to a ≥100mm² GND copper area. Derating is required above +25°C per θ_JA = 55°C/W.

Can MP6231DH-LF operate from a 3.3V supply rail?

Yes. Its 2.7V–5.5V input range fully covers 3.3V system rails. At VIN = 3.3V, R_DS(on) remains ≤130mΩ across –40°C to +85°C, supporting 500mA continuous current with <65mV dropout and minimal self-heating.

Is the exposed thermal pad on MP6231DH-LF electrically connected internally?

No. The exposed pad is not electrically connected to any internal node-it serves solely as a thermal interface. It must be soldered to a GND plane for optimal heat dissipation but may be left floating electrically if GND connection is impractical, though thermal performance will degrade significantly.

What is the turn-off time specification for MP6231DH-LF?

Turn-off time (T_off) is 10ms maximum with CL = 100μF and RL = 11Ω. This value reflects the time for V_OUT to fall from 90% to 10% after ENx is pulled low, ensuring controlled load discharge in systems sensitive to abrupt power removal.