Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3804GG-18-Z

Overview

MPM3804GG-18-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully integrated, synchronous step-down DC/DC power module delivering 0.6A continuous output at a fixed 1.8V from 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 for sequencing-critical low-power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3804GG-18-Z datasheet, MPM3804GG-18-Z pinout, MPM3804GG-18-Z application, or MPM3804GG-18-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 1.8V output with ±1% regulation over –40°C to +125°C, 340μA quiescent current, 100% duty-cycle capability in dropout, thermal shutdown at 160°C, and PG threshold accuracy (90%/83% of VOUT).

Technical Context

The MPM3804GG-18-Z 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 fast transient response without external compensation. Its internal 120mΩ/100mΩ P/N-FET pair and co-packaged 1μH inductor with 0.4Ω DCR support efficient 0.6A delivery at 1.8V with minimal external components.

It operates in three distinct modes: CCM under medium-to-heavy load, DCM at light load via zero-current detection (ZCD), and sleep mode for ultra-low IQ (340μA), where FB regulation shifts to maintain higher average output voltage. The PG pin provides precise power-good signaling with 90% upper and 83% lower trip thresholds relative to nominal VOUT.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3804GG-18-Z uses a thermally enhanced QFN-10 package (2mm × 2mm × 0.9mm) with exposed thermal pad (GND-connected) for efficient heat dissipation in high-density layouts.

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, the MPM3804GG-18-Z uniquely balances ultra-small 2×2×0.9mm size, integrated PG signaling, and 340μA IQ-making it optimal for height-sensitive, sequenced-power applications where footprint and reliability outweigh absolute lowest quiescent current or EMI suppression.

Availability

MPM3804GG-18-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical transceivers, industrial sensor nodes, wearable health monitors, and space-constrained IoT gateways requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPM3804GG-18-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 core expertise in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MPM3804 product line delivers fully integrated, ultra-compact power modules targeting space- and efficiency-critical applications in portable, industrial, and optical electronics-designed to replace discrete buck regulators with minimal external components.

FAQ

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

A 10μF X5R/X7R ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the VIN and GND pins is recommended. This value provides adequate ripple current handling and minimizes input voltage spikes. For high-reliability applications, adding a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor in parallel improves high-frequency decoupling.

Does MPM3804GG-18-Z require external feedback resistors?

No. Unlike the adjustable MPM3804GG variant, the MPM3804GG-18-Z has a factory-trimmed fixed 1.8V output. No external feedback resistors are needed-only input/output capacitors and an external pull-up resistor for the PG pin.

How does the power-good (PG) pin function on this part?

The PG pin is an open-drain output that pulls low when VOUT falls outside the ±7% window (i.e., below 1.494V or above 1.638V). An external 100kΩ–500kΩ pull-up resistor to VIN is required. PG asserts high once VOUT stabilizes within regulation and remains high until a fault condition occurs.

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

Yes. It supports 100% duty-cycle operation, allowing continuous regulation even when VIN = VOUT = 1.8V. This feature extends usable battery life in single-cell Li-ion or coin-cell applications where input voltage sags near the output level.

What thermal considerations apply to the QFN-10 package?

The exposed thermal pad must be soldered to a solid GND copper plane with ≥4 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) to achieve θJA ≈ 80°C/W. Without proper thermal relief, junction temperature may exceed 125°C at 0.6A load in still air, triggering thermal shutdown.

Is output discharge active during shutdown?

Yes. When EN is pulled low or floats, the internal 1kΩ discharge FET activates automatically between OUT and GND, safely discharging the output capacitor within milliseconds-preventing unintended wake-up or latch-up in multi-rail systems.

What is the minimum output capacitance required for stability?

A minimum of 10μF X5R/X7R ceramic capacitor is required for stable operation. For lower output ripple (<10mV p-p), a 22μF capacitor is recommended. The device is optimized for low-ESR ceramics and does not require additional ESR for loop stability.