Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP6516GF-Z

Overview

MP6516GF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 35V, 2.8A peak-output, half-H control H-bridge motor driver IC in TSSOP-16 EP package. It integrates dual N-channel MOSFETs (R_DS(on) = 250 mΩ HS/LS), supports independent half-bridge control via IN1/EN1/IN2/EN2 logic inputs, and delivers precise current regulation without external shunt resistors-used in DC brush motor control for industrial actuators and automated valves.

For engineers reviewing the MP6516GF-Z datasheet, MP6516GF-Z pinout, MP6516GF-Z application, or MP6516GF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5.4–35V input range, cycle-by-cycle current limiting with ISET-programmable trip threshold, fault-indicating open-drain nFAULT output, thermal shutdown at 165°C, and compatibility with both 3.3V and 5V logic supplies.

Technical Context

The MP6516GF-Z implements constant-off-time PWM current regulation using internal sensing of low-side MOSFET conduction, with VISET threshold fixed at 1.5V and t_ITRIP = 0.9ms off-time. Its charge pump (f_CP = 680kHz) enables full-N-channel H-bridge operation without external high-side drivers.

Protection logic operates independently: OCP triggers at 3.2–5.3A (sinking/sourcing), UVLO activates at 4.7–5.3V rising threshold with 310mV hysteresis, OVP trips at 36–40V, and thermal shutdown engages at 165°C with 30°C hysteresis-all asserting open-drain nFAULT low.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-16 EP (5.0mm × 6.4mm) with exposed thermal pad (EP) requiring solder connection to system ground for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar H-bridge motor driver applications.

Compared with TB6612FNG and DRV8876N, the MP6516GF-Z offers optimal balance of 35V operation, integrated charge pump, and analog current monitoring in a compact TSSOP-16 EP - ideal for space-constrained industrial motion controllers requiring accurate current feedback without added ICs.

Availability

MP6516GF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial valve actuation, robotic joint control, and medical infusion pump drive requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP6516GF-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 power ICs, with core expertise in DC/DC conversion, motor control, and LED drivers.

The MP6516 belongs to MPS's H-bridge motor driver product line, designed specifically for compact, thermally efficient, and current-accurate control of brushed DC and solenoid loads in industrial automation and precision equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the MP6516GF-Z?

The MP6516GF-Z supports ±1.5A continuous output current per channel under recommended operating conditions (T_A = +25°C, proper PCB thermal design). This rating assumes use of the exposed thermal pad soldered to a ≥250 mm² GND plane and accounts for R_DS(on) heating and θ_JA = 45°C/W. Peak current capability remains 2.8A for short durations.

How does the ISET pin configure current limiting?

The ISET pin accepts a resistor to ground that sets the current trip threshold: V_ITRIP = 1.5V is fixed, and IISET = 100 µA/A flows into the resistor. For example, a 15kΩ resistor yields 1.5V / 15kΩ = 100 µA → 1A trip point. VISEN output scales linearly (1V/A) for monitoring, independent of trip configuration.

Can the MP6516GF-Z drive a unidirectional load without H-bridge functionality?

Yes - by fixing one output (e.g., OUT2) to GND and controlling only OUT1 with IN1/EN1, the device operates as a high-side switch. However, current regulation and VISEN feedback remain active only when low-side FETs conduct, so full functionality requires standard H-bridge or half-bridge load connections.

Is an external pull-up required for the nFAULT pin?

Yes - nFAULT is an open-drain output and must be pulled up externally (typically 4.7kΩ to 5V or 3.3V) to assert a logic-high state when no fault is present. Without this pull-up, the pin remains floating and cannot indicate fault clearance reliably.

What charge pump capacitors are mandatory for operation?

Two ceramic capacitors are mandatory: a 100nF capacitor between CPA and CPB (flying capacitor), and a 1µF capacitor from VCP to VIN (boost reservoir). These ensure stable gate drive voltage generation for the high-side N-MOSFETs; omission causes erratic switching or complete failure to drive OUT1/OUT2.

Does the MP6516GF-Z support PWM speed control?

Yes - it supports PWM speed control via duty-cycle modulation of the INx/ENx logic inputs. The internal current regulation operates cycle-by-cycle, maintaining consistent average current regardless of PWM frequency (within device timing constraints), enabling smooth motor speed adjustment from 0% to 100%.

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

MPS recommends ≥250 mm² of solid copper connected to GND under the exposed pad (EP) for thermal performance. This area should be divided into ≥4 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter, 0.8mm pitch) to inner-layer GND planes to achieve θ_JA ≈ 45°C/W and sustain 1.5A continuous current at 70°C ambient.