Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP8796BGVT-0000-P

Overview

MP8796BGVT-0000-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a PMBus-compatible, multi-phase synchronous step-down converter delivering up to 30A per phase with input range 4V–16V, output adjustable from 0.4V to 5.5V, and integrated MOSFETs (R_DS(ON) = 4.4 mΩ HS / 1.5 mΩ LS). It operates in single- or multi-phase configurations for telecom base stations and server VRMs.

For engineers reviewing the MP8796BGVT-0000-P datasheet, MP8796BGVT-0000-P pinout, MP8796BGVT-0000-P application, or MP8796BGVT-0000-P equivalent, key selection criteria include PMBus-configurable OCP/OVP thresholds, adaptive COT control for sub-100ns transient response, lossless on-die current sensing, and TQFN-25 (4mm×5mm) thermal performance (θ_JB = 1.8°C/W).

Technical Context

The MP8796B implements MPS's proprietary multi-phase constant-on-time (MCOT) control architecture, enabling phase interleaving and precise current sharing across up to six parallel devices without external clock synchronization. Its digital loop compensation is stored in MTP and configured via PMBus commands.

It integrates dual high- and low-side power MOSFETs, a 3.3V LDO (VCC), bootstrap driver (BST), analog ground (AGND), and remote voltage sense inputs (VOSNS+/VOSNS−). Protection includes programmable hiccup/latch-off OCP, OVP/UVP with ±5% LSB resolution, and thermal shutdown at 145°C with 20°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TQFN-25 (4mm × 5mm, 0.5mm pitch) package with exposed thermal pad (PGND-connected) for low-impedance heat transfer to PCB.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-phase synchronous buck converter applications.

Compared with MP8796K, the MP8796BGVT-0000-P has higher R_DS(ON), narrower temp range, and no EMI optimization-making it unsuitable for new designs. Versus TPS546D24A, it provides faster transient recovery and self-contained configuration, but lacks TI's WEBENCH integration support.

Availability

MP8796BGVT-0000-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom base station PSUs, AI accelerator card VRMs, and enterprise server memory regulators requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence planning.

Supply support for MP8796BGVT-0000-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 power management ICs for computing, telecom, automotive, and industrial markets.

The MP8796B belongs to MPS's scalable digital multiphase buck converter product line, designed specifically for high-current, digitally managed VRMs in datacenter and networking infrastructure where PMBus telemetry and phase scalability are critical.

FAQ

Is MP8796BGVT-0000-P recommended for new designs?

No. MPS explicitly states "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGNS, REFER TO MP8796K" in the datasheet. The MP8796K is the designated successor with improved thermal specs, lower R_DS(ON), and enhanced EMI performance. MP8796BGVT-0000-P remains valid for legacy repair, evaluation, or existing production continuity under controlled obsolescence management.

What is the function of the ISUM pin in multi-phase operation?

The ISUM pin outputs a summed current-sense signal used for master-slave current balancing. In multi-phase setups, all ISUM pins are tied together to form a shared current bus, enabling automatic load sharing with <5% imbalance across phases without external amplifiers or resistors.

Can MP8796BGVT-0000-P operate without a PMBus host controller?

Yes. It supports standalone operation using hardware pins: CTRL for enable/disable, ADDR for slave address, and PS# for phase enable/disable. Default register values (e.g., 0.92V output) are stored in MTP, allowing full functionality without PMBus communication-though telemetry and dynamic reconfiguration require the bus.

What is the minimum output voltage achievable with remote sensing?

The minimum regulated output is 0.4V, supported across the full 0.4V–5.5V range with true remote sense (VOSNS+/VOSNS−). At 0.4V, feedback accuracy remains ±0.5% over 0°C–70°C, validated by the 594–606mV VFB specification at nominal 600mV reference.

How does the MCOT control scheme improve transient response compared to traditional voltage-mode control?

MCOT eliminates the need for error amplifier compensation and provides inherent stability across capacitor ESR variations. Its on-time is inversely proportional to input-output voltage differential, enabling sub-100ns response to load steps-verified in datasheet waveforms showing <20µs recovery from 0A→30A transients at 1000kHz switching.

What thermal derating applies above 70°C ambient?

Per Figure 7 (Thermal Derating), output current drops linearly from 30A at 70°C ambient to ~22A at 105°C ambient (no airflow, 2oz Cu PCB). This is governed by the 145°C junction trip threshold and θ_JB = 1.8°C/W; forced airflow extends usable current by ~15% at 105°C.

Does the device support pre-biased output startup?

Yes. The MP8796B supports pre-biased start-up in both CCM and DCM modes, as confirmed by Figures 15–16 in the datasheet. During startup, the controller actively sinks current from the output to prevent reverse inductor current, avoiding potential damage to downstream loads.