Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3610AGQV-Z

Overview

MPM3610AGQV-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down DC/DC module integrating power MOSFETs, inductor, VCC and bootstrap capacitors in a single QFN20 package. It delivers 1.2A continuous output current with 4.5V–21V input range, 0.8V–VIN-adjustable output, and built-in OCP/hiccup and thermal shutdown. Used in space-constrained industrial and telecom power rails where board area and BOM count are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3610AGQV-Z datasheet, MPM3610AGQV-Z pinout, MPM3610AGQV-Z application, or MPM3610AGQV-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include integrated inductor elimination of external magnetics, 90mΩ/40mΩ internal R_DS(ON), power good indicator timing (35µs rise delay), soft-start duration (1.6ms), and QFN20 thermal performance (θ_JA = 46°C/W).

Technical Context

The MPM3610AGQV-Z employs a high-frequency synchronous buck architecture with three operating modes-AAM (light-load PFM-like), DCM, and CCM-automatically transitioning with load current. Its internal 2MHz oscillator (1500–2500kHz over temperature) enables compact filtering while maintaining regulation across 4.5V–21V input.

Control relies on an error amplifier comparing FB voltage to a 0.798V reference, driving COMP voltage to modulate HS-FET on-time. Integrated bootstrap and VCC regulators eliminate external bias components, and the open-drain PG pin provides 0.86–0.95V_FB rising threshold with 35µs delay for system sequencing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3610AGQV-Z uses a QFN20 (3mm × 5mm × 1.6mm) thermally enhanced package with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is marked by dot; pins 10, 15, 19, and 20 are no-connect and must remain floating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TSM12010S and LMZ36002RKGR, the MPM3610AGQV-Z uniquely balances 21V input capability, integrated PG, and 3mm×5mm footprint - making it optimal for industrial and telecom POL where voltage range and sequencing matter most.

Availability

MPM3610AGQV-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, medical imaging subsystems, telecom SFP+ modules, and space-constrained edge AI nodes requiring stable component supply with minimal design-in risk.

Supply support for MPM3610AGQV-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 focus on energy-efficient DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting solutions.

The MPM3610A product line delivers fully integrated power modules targeting space- and time-constrained applications in industrial automation, medical equipment, and communications infrastructure - emphasizing ease-of-use, thermal robustness, and rapid time-to-market.

FAQ

What is the minimum output voltage achievable with MPM3610AGQV-Z?

The MPM3610AGQV-Z supports output voltages down to 0.8V, set by the feedback resistor divider referencing its 0.798V internal reference. The datasheet confirms operation at 0.8V with validated stability and load regulation; lower voltages are not specified or guaranteed due to minimum on-time limitations (30ns) and reference tolerance.

Does MPM3610AGQV-Z require external bootstrap or VCC capacitors?

No. The MPM3610AGQV-Z integrates both the bootstrap capacitor and the VCC LDO output capacitor internally. Pin 2 (VCC) and Pin 11 (BST) are designed for direct connection without external capacitance - a key differentiator reducing BOM count and layout complexity versus discrete controllers.

How does the power good (PG) pin behave during thermal shutdown?

During thermal shutdown, the PG pin is pulled low immediately - independent of FB voltage - providing unambiguous fault indication. This behavior is explicitly documented: "When UVLO or OTP happens, the PG pin will be pulled low immediately," ensuring downstream logic can halt safely before thermal damage occurs.

Can MPM3610AGQV-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. Operation at 24V exceeds the specified maximum and risks violating internal voltage ratings (e.g., V_SW = VIN during HS-FET off-time), potentially triggering overvoltage stress or premature failure.

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

Pins 10, 15, 19, and 20 are no-connect (NC) terminals. They must remain electrically floating - neither tied to ground nor powered. These pins exist for mechanical symmetry and package compatibility; connecting them may cause internal leakage paths or violate isolation boundaries per the functional block diagram and pin function table.

Is pre-bias startup supported, and how does it work?

Yes. The MPM3610AGQV-Z supports monotonic pre-bias startup: when the output is already biased, the internal soft-start capacitor charges until its voltage exceeds the FB-sensed voltage, then sequentially enables HS and LS FETs. This prevents reverse current flow and ensures controlled ramp-up without output collapse or overshoot.

What PCB layout practices maximize thermal performance?

Maximize thermal performance by soldering the exposed thermal pad to a solid inner ground plane using ≥9 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter), placing input/output capacitors within 2mm of respective pins (IN, OUT), and routing SW/PGND with ≥1mm-wide copper pours. The datasheet specifies θ_JA = 46°C/W assumes this 4-layer board construction.