Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3804GG-18-P

Overview

MPM3804GG-18-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully integrated, synchronous step-down DC/DC power module delivering 0.6A continuous output at 1.8V from a 2.3V–5.5V input. It embeds power 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) indicator for sequencing-critical low-power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3804GG-18-P datasheet, MPM3804GG-18-P pinout, MPM3804GG-18-P application, or MPM3804GG-18-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 1.8V output with ±1% regulation over –40°C to +125°C, 0.5ms internal soft-start, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic output capacitors without external compensation.

Technical Context

The MPM3804GG-18-P implements a constant-on-time (COT) control architecture with input voltage feed-forward, enabling stable 2.4MHz operation across its full 2.3V–5.5V input range and maintaining tight line/load regulation. Its internal 120mΩ P-FET and 100mΩ N-FET switches support high efficiency (up to 91%) and 100% duty-cycle operation in dropout.

It integrates a 1µH co-packaged inductor with 0.4Ω DCR, supports output discharge via internal MOSFET, and uses an open-drain PG pin with 83–90% trip thresholds referenced to VOUT-enabling precise power-rail monitoring and sequencing in space-constrained I/O supplies.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3804GG-18-P is housed in a thermally enhanced QFN-10 package (2mm × 2mm × 0.9mm) with exposed thermal pad. Pin 10 (GND) and the underside thermal pad must be soldered to a PCB ground plane for optimal thermal performance and EMI suppression.

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 LTM8003-1.8, MPM3804GG-18-P uniquely combines PG functionality, smallest footprint (2mm × 2mm), and lowest profile (0.9mm) among 0.6A 1.8V modules-making it optimal for height- and sequence-sensitive embedded systems.

Availability

MPM3804GG-18-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical transceivers, industrial sensor nodes, IoT edge compute devices, and space-constrained LDO replacement applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MPM3804GG-18-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 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 space- and efficiency-critical portable, optical, and industrial systems-emphasizing ease of use, minimal external components, and robust protection.

FAQ

What is the recommended input capacitor for MPM3804GG-18-P?

A 10µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor placed within 2mm of VIN and GND pins is recommended. It must handle ≥0.3A RMS ripple current; adding a 0.1µF ceramic in parallel improves high-frequency decoupling. Electrolytic or tantalum types require the 0.1µF ceramic bypass.

Does MPM3804GG-18-P require external compensation components?

No. The constant-on-time (COT) control architecture and integrated 1µH inductor eliminate the need for external compensation networks. Stability is guaranteed with standard 10µF–22µF ceramic output capacitors and proper PCB layout per MPS AN-107 guidelines.

How does the power-good (PG) pin behave during startup and fault conditions?

PG remains high-impedance until VOUT reaches 83% of 1.8V (1.494V), then pulls low if VOUT falls below that threshold. During startup, PG transitions high after VOUT stabilizes within regulation-providing a clean, glitch-free enable signal for downstream logic.

Can MPM3804GG-18-P operate with input voltage equal to output voltage?

Yes. It supports 100% duty cycle in dropout, allowing operation down to VIN = VOUT (1.8V). However, minimum input is specified as 2.3V for guaranteed regulation and protection functionality across temperature.

What thermal management practices are required for 0.6A continuous operation?

For 0.6A at 5.5V→1.8V, solder Pin 10 (GND) and the exposed thermal pad to ≥100mm² of inner/outer-layer copper with ≥4 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) to internal ground planes. θJA is 80°C/W on a 4-layer board-derate output current above 85°C ambient.

Is the PG pin compatible with 1.2V or 3.3V logic systems?

Yes. As an open-drain output, PG requires an external pull-up resistor to the target logic rail (e.g., 100kΩ to 1.2V or 3.3V). Its sink capability exceeds 1mA at ≤400mV saturation, ensuring solid low-level drive across voltage domains.

How does output discharge function when EN is pulled low?

When EN is deasserted, an internal 1kΩ discharge MOSFET connects OUT to GND, discharging the output capacitor to <0.5V within ~10ms (dependent on COUT value). This prevents back-powering of upstream circuitry and supports safe hot-swap operation.