Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3606AGQV-Z

Overview

MPM3606AGQV-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully integrated synchronous step-down DC/DC module with built-in MOSFETs, inductor, VCC and bootstrap capacitors, delivering 0.6A continuous output current across a 4.5V–21V input range, adjustable down to 0.8V output, and featuring power-good indication, over-current hiccup protection, and thermal shutdown - deployed in space-constrained industrial controls and medical imaging power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3606AGQV-Z datasheet, MPM3606AGQV-Z pinout, MPM3606AGQV-Z application, or MPM3606AGQV-Z equivalent, key selection considerations include its QFN20 (3×5×1.6mm) package footprint, integrated inductor eliminating external magnetics, 1.6ms internal soft-start, 798mV feedback reference voltage, and PG open-drain timing behavior with 35µs rising / 80µs falling delay.

Technical Context

The MPM3606AGQV-Z implements a high-frequency (1.5–2.5MHz) synchronous buck topology with three operating modes: Advanced Asynchronous Modulation (AAM) for light-load efficiency, Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM), and Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM). Its internal 4.9V LDO powers control circuitry directly from VIN, eliminating need for external VCC biasing.

It integrates a 1µH inductor with 60mΩ DCR, paired with low-RDS(ON) MOSFETs (100mΩ HS / 50mΩ LS), enabling compact 6.7mm × 7.3mm total solution size. The error amplifier uses a fixed 798mV reference and internal compensation, reducing external component count while supporting monotonic pre-bias start-up and cycle-by-cycle over-current limiting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3606AGQV-Z is housed in a thermally enhanced QFN20 package (3mm × 5mm × 1.6mm) with exposed thermal pad (pin 12–14 PGND) requiring solder connection to PCB ground plane for optimal thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down module applications.

Compared with MPM3606AGQV-Z, MPM3610AGQV-Z offers headroom for higher current without changing PCB layout, while TPS826718SIPR trades input flexibility and adjustability for minimal footprint - making the MPM3606AGQV-Z optimal for 4.5–21V industrial designs requiring configurability and robust fault handling.

Availability

MPM3606AGQV-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial controls, medical imaging equipment, and telecom line card power conversion requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MPM3606AGQV-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 over two decades of expertise in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MPM3606A series belongs to MPS's integrated power module product line, designed specifically to reduce design risk and time-to-market for engineers building compact, reliable, and thermally efficient power supplies in resource-constrained environments.

FAQ

What is the minimum output voltage supported by MPM3606AGQV-Z?

The MPM3606AGQV-Z supports output voltages as low as 0.8V, set via an external resistor divider referenced to its 798mV internal feedback voltage. Below 0.8V, regulation accuracy degrades due to comparator offset and minimum on-time limitations (30ns), and the device may not maintain stable operation under full load.

Can MPM3606AGQV-Z operate with a 24V input?

No - the absolute maximum input voltage is 28V, but the recommended operating range is strictly 4.5V to 21V. Applying 24V exceeds the 21V limit and risks triggering overvoltage stress on internal MOSFETs and gate drivers, potentially causing premature failure or erratic regulation.

Is an external bootstrap capacitor required?

No - the MPM3606AGQV-Z integrates both the bootstrap capacitor and associated charging circuitry. Pin 11 (BST) is internally connected and must remain unconnected; adding external components violates the validated design and may disrupt gate drive timing or cause instability.

How does the Power Good (PG) pin behave during thermal shutdown?

During thermal shutdown, the PG pin is pulled low immediately - independent of feedback voltage - providing unambiguous system-level fault signaling. This behavior is distinct from normal PG assertion, which depends solely on VFB crossing 90% or 83% of the 798mV reference with defined delays.

What is the purpose of the NC pins (10, 15, 19, 20)?

Pins 10, 15, 19, and 20 are No Connect (NC) terminals - physically present but not electrically bonded to the die. They must remain unconnected and floating; routing traces or applying solder paste to these pads can cause mechanical stress or unintended coupling, violating the qualified thermal and electrical performance.

Does MPM3606AGQV-Z support forced PWM mode?

No - the device automatically transitions between AAM (light load), DCM, and CCM based on output current; it lacks a MODE pin or register control to force continuous PWM operation. This simplifies design but means light-load efficiency is prioritized over strict frequency stability.

What is the maximum allowable output capacitance?

No hard upper limit is specified, but excessive output capacitance (>100µF) increases soft-start time and may destabilize the internal compensation loop. For stable operation, MPS recommends ≤2×22µF ceramic (e.g., two 0805 22µF X5R) with ESR <5mΩ - verified in typical application circuits.