Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3804GG-12-Z

Overview

MPM3804GG-12-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully integrated, synchronous step-down DC/DC power module delivering 0.6A continuous output at a fixed 1.2V from a 2.3V–5.5V input. It integrates MOSFETs and a 1μH inductor in an ultra-small 2mm × 2mm × 0.9mm QFN-10 package, features constant-on-time (COT) control, 2.4MHz switching frequency, and built-in power-good (PG) open-drain output. It targets space-constrained low-power systems requiring stable, efficient point-of-load regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3804GG-12-Z datasheet, MPM3804GG-12-Z pinout, MPM3804GG-12-Z application, or MPM3804GG-12-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 1.2V output with ±1% tolerance over temperature, 340μA quiescent current, 1.3A peak current limit, thermal shutdown at 160°C, and PG indicator with 90%/83% trip thresholds - all critical for reliable power sequencing in portable and IoT devices.

Technical Context

The MPM3804GG-12-Z implements a constant-on-time (COT) control architecture with input voltage feed-forward, enabling fast transient response and stable operation across its 2.3V–5.5V input range without external compensation. Its internal 1μH inductor and matched 130mΩ/100mΩ P/N-FETs support high-efficiency conversion at 1.2V output.

It integrates EN logic-level enable (1.2V threshold), open-drain PG output with 50–100nA leakage and 400mV sink capability, 0.5ms internal soft-start, and hiccup-mode short-circuit protection. Thermal shutdown (160°C) and cycle-by-cycle over-current protection ensure robust operation under fault conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3804GG-12-Z uses a QFN-10 (2mm × 2mm × 0.9mm) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; pins are numbered counterclockwise from top-left in top view.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS82084 and LTM8003-1.2, the MPM3804GG-12-Z uniquely balances ultra-small size, integrated PG signaling, and optimized 2.3V–5.5V input range - making it the only choice for compact, battery-powered 1.2V systems requiring deterministic power sequencing.

Availability

MPM3804GG-12-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical transceivers, industrial sensor nodes, IoT edge controllers, and space-constrained LDO replacement applications requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPM3804GG-12-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, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MPM3804 product line delivers fully integrated, ultra-compact DC/DC modules targeting portable, optical, and IoT applications where board space, efficiency, and ease of use outweigh the need for adjustable output voltage.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the PG pin on MPM3804GG-12-Z?

The PG (Power Good) pin is an open-drain output that signals when the regulated 1.2V output is within ±10% of nominal (i.e., 1.08V–1.32V). It requires an external pull-up resistor (100kΩ–500kΩ) to VIN or another rail. When asserted high, it confirms stable regulation and enables safe power sequencing for downstream logic or processors.

Can MPM3804GG-12-Z operate with input voltage below 2.3V?

No. The absolute minimum operating input voltage is 2.3V, and the under-voltage lockout (UVLO) rising threshold is 2.3V with 150mV hysteresis. Operation below this level disables regulation and forces the device into shutdown, protecting internal circuitry and preventing unstable output behavior.

How does the 0.5ms soft-start time affect system design?

The internal 0.5ms soft-start ramps the output voltage from 10% to 90% of 1.2V, limiting inrush current to ~1.2A peak. This eliminates the need for external soft-start circuitry and prevents input rail droop or reset glitches in multi-rail systems - especially important when powered from shared USB or battery sources.

Is an external feedback resistor network required for MPM3804GG-12-Z?

No. Unlike the base MPM3804GG variant, the MPM3804GG-12-Z has a factory-trimmed, fixed 1.2V output. The FB pin is repurposed as PG; therefore, no external resistors are needed - simplifying layout and reducing component count versus adjustable versions.

What thermal performance can be expected in a 2-layer PCB design?

With the exposed thermal pad soldered to a 100mm² copper pour on a standard 2-layer FR-4 board, θJA is approximately 80°C/W. At 0.6A load and 3.3V input, junction temperature rise is ~38°C above ambient - well within the -40°C to +125°C operating range and below the 160°C thermal shutdown threshold.

Does MPM3804GG-12-Z support forced PWM or automatic PFM/PWM mode switching?

It uses Monolithic Power's proprietary Advanced Asynchronous Modulation (AAM) with zero-current detection (ZCD) to automatically transition between CCM and DCM based on load. There is no user-selectable mode; light-load efficiency is maximized via sleep-mode operation with 340μA quiescent current.

What is the maximum allowable output capacitance?

No hard upper limit is specified, but stability is guaranteed with 10μF–22μF ceramic capacitors (X5R/X7R). Larger values (>47μF) may reduce phase margin and cause ringing or overshoot during load transients unless compensated per the manufacturer's layout guidelines and application notes.