Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP8201DT-LF-P

Overview

MP8201DT-LF-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a precision adjustable shunt voltage regulator in SOT-23-3 package, operating from 1.2V to 12V input with ±0.5% initial accuracy, 160mV reference voltage, <1Ω dynamic output resistance, and 60µA minimum operating current. It serves as a programmable voltage reference in low-power analog signal chains and battery-powered instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MP8201DT-LF-P datasheet, MP8201DT-LF-P pinout, MP8201DT-LF-P application, or MP8201DT-LF-P equivalent, key selection factors include its 1.2V–10V adjustable output range, ultra-low quiescent current, sharp turn-on behavior, stability without external capacitor, and operation across –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MP8201 functions as a two-terminal shunt regulator with three-pin SOT-23 configuration (V+, V–, VREF), where VREF enables precise external resistor-based output voltage programming. Its internal bandgap reference delivers 160mV nominal VREF with ±0.8mV error and 85ppm/°C temperature coefficient over full industrial range.

It achieves load regulation of ≤2mV across 0.1mA–10mA input current and exhibits 10µs turn-on settling time within 0.1% of final value. The device maintains stable regulation without output capacitance and supports negative reference configurations via external biasing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP8201DT-LF-P is housed in a standard 3-pin SOT-23-3 package with gull-wing leads, optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts and automated assembly. Pin mapping is validated per MPS datasheet Rev. 0.9 (2009).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar shunt voltage reference applications.

Compared with TL431ACDBVR and MAX6008AEUR+T, MP8201DT-LF-P uniquely supports 1.2V–10V adjustment with ±0.5% accuracy and 60µA minimum current - making it optimal for multi-rail, battery-sensitive, and programmable reference designs.

Availability

MP8201DT-LF-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for instrumentation reference, portable medical sensors, notebook system monitoring, and industrial linear regulator feedback requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MP8201DT-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, headquartered in California and serving global industrial, computing, and automotive markets.

The MP8201 belongs to MPS's precision voltage reference product line, engineered specifically for low-voltage, low-power, and adjustable shunt regulation in portable and instrumentation-grade analog systems.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for MP8201DT-LF-P to regulate?

The MP8201DT-LF-P begins regulating at 1.2V input, matching its lowest programmable output voltage. Below this, the device remains non-conductive. Regulation is guaranteed across 1.2V–12V input when configured with appropriate external resistors and load conditions per datasheet Figure 1.

Can MP8201DT-LF-P replace TL431 in existing designs?

MP8201DT-LF-P is not a direct drop-in replacement for TL431 due to different pinout (V+, V–, VREF vs. KA, REF, Cathode), lower reference voltage (160mV vs. 2.495V), and distinct biasing requirements. Circuit redesign-including resistor scaling and layout-must be performed to maintain stability and accuracy.

Does MP8201DT-LF-P require an output capacitor for stability?

No. The MP8201DT-LF-P is internally compensated and operates stably without any external output capacitor, as confirmed in the "Stable With No External Capacitor" feature and typical performance curves. Adding capacitance may slow transient response but does not improve stability.

How is the output voltage calculated for MP8201DT-LF-P?

Output voltage is set by two external resistors: VOUT = VREF × (1 + R1/R2), where VREF = 160mV. R2 connects between VREF and V– (ground), and R1 connects between V+ and VREF. Full derivation and biasing constraints are provided in the "External Bias Resistor" section of the datasheet.

What is the maximum power dissipation for MP8201DT-LF-P at 85°C ambient?

At TA = +85°C, maximum continuous power dissipation is 271mW, calculated as PD(MAX) = (TJ(MAX) – TA)/θJA = (150°C – 85°C)/240°C/W. This assumes standard JEDEC 4-layer PCB mounting per datasheet Note 4.

Is MP8201DT-LF-P RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes. The "-LF" suffix in MP8201DT-LF-P explicitly denotes lead-free, RoHS-compliant packaging per EU Directive 2011/65/EU, verified through MPS's official compliance documentation and material declarations.