Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP9218DGT-LF-Z

Overview

MP9218DGT-LF-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a regulated 2× switched-capacitor charge pump IC that converts 2.8V–5V input to a fixed 5V ±200mV output, delivers up to 110mA continuous current, features 1.35MHz fixed-frequency operation and internal soft-start, and is used in LCD bias and portable display power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MP9218DGT-LF-Z datasheet, MP9218DGT-LF-Z pinout, MP9218DGT-LF-Z application, or MP9218DGT-LF-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include input voltage range compatibility, 5V regulation tolerance, flying capacitor configuration, thermal shutdown behavior, and TQFN-6 footprint constraints.

Technical Context

The MP9218 implements a fixed-ratio 2× charge pump topology with internal voltage sensing via resistor divider feedback and comparator-based regulation. It operates at a fixed 1.35MHz switching frequency and uses external flying capacitors (CP/CN) and output decoupling (OUT) to generate regulated 5V output without inductors.

Internal protection includes over-current limiting (250–500mA trip), short-circuit detection (60mA threshold), thermal shutdown (~145°C), and in-rush current control during startup and mode transitions. The EN pin enables logic-level control with 1.5V high-threshold and 0.4V low-threshold.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TQFN-6 (2mm × 2mm) package with exposed thermal pad connected to GND; RoHS-compliant, lead-free construction.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar regulated charge pump applications.

Compared with TPS60403DBVR and MAX682ESA+, MP9218DGT-LF-Z offers higher output current (110mA vs. 60/125mA), tighter regulation (±200mV vs. ±300mV), integrated short-circuit protection, and a smaller 2mm×2mm footprint-making it optimal for compact, high-reliability portable displays.

Availability

MP9218DGT-LF-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone LCD bias, handheld PDA display drivers, and TV remote control power rails requiring stable component supply and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MP9218DGT-LF-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan.

The MP9218 belongs to MPS's regulated charge pump product line, engineered specifically for compact, inductorless DC-DC conversion in portable consumer electronics where board space and EMI are critical constraints.

FAQ

What flying capacitor value is required for MP9218DGT-LF-Z?

The MP9218DGT-LF-Z requires a 0.22µF ceramic flying capacitor (CP–CN) rated for ≥10V. This value is optimized for 1.35MHz operation and ensures stable 2× charge pump performance across temperature and load conditions per the datasheet's typical application circuit.

Can MP9218DGT-LF-Z operate below 2.8V input?

No. The absolute minimum input voltage is 2.8V per the Recommended Operating Conditions table. Operation below this level may cause regulation failure, output droop, or unpredictable enable/disable behavior due to insufficient headroom for internal circuitry and charge pump efficiency.

Is the exposed thermal pad on the TQFN-6 package required to be soldered to GND?

Yes. The exposed pad must be soldered to a GND plane using ≥4 thermal vias to ensure proper thermal dissipation and electrical grounding. Omitting this connection risks thermal shutdown under 110mA load and violates the θJA specification (80°C/W).

Does MP9218DGT-LF-Z support dynamic output voltage adjustment?

No. The MP9218DGT-LF-Z provides only a fixed 5V output. It lacks external feedback pins or programming interfaces; output voltage is set internally and cannot be adjusted via resistors, I²C, or other means.

How does the internal soft-start function affect startup time?

The internal soft-start limits in-rush current by gradually ramping the charge pump switching duty cycle, resulting in a typical startup time of ~1ms to reach regulated 5V output. This prevents input rail sag and avoids false triggering of upstream power-good signals.

What is the maximum allowable ambient temperature for continuous 110mA operation?

At 110mA output and 5V input, power dissipation is ~170mW. Using θJA = 80°C/W and TJ(MAX) = 125°C, the maximum ambient temperature is 125°C − (0.17W × 80°C/W) ≈ −1°C - meaning derating is required above room temperature. For full-load operation, keep TA ≤ 50°C with adequate PCB copper area.

Are there layout guidelines for minimizing noise on the OUT pin?

Yes: place the 2.2µF (or 10µF) output capacitor within 2mm of the OUT and GND pins; use separate GND pours for power and signal sections; avoid routing noisy signals near CP/CN traces; and connect the exposed pad directly to a solid GND plane with ≥4 thermal vias.