Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3804GG-33-P

Overview

MPM3804GG-33-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully integrated, synchronous step-down DC/DC power module delivering 0.6A continuous output at fixed 3.3V from 2.3V–5.5V input, featuring an on-board 1μH inductor, 2.4MHz switching frequency, and ultra-small 2mm × 2mm × 0.9mm QFN-10 package. It supports space-constrained low-power systems such as optical modules and IoT edge nodes requiring stable, low-noise 3.3V rail generation with minimal external components.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3804GG-33-P datasheet, MPM3804GG-33-P pinout, MPM3804GG-33-P application, or MPM3804GG-33-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 3.3V output accuracy (±1%), integrated inductor architecture, PG open-drain indicator functionality, and thermal shutdown behavior at 160°C - all critical for compact, high-reliability embedded power designs.

Technical Context

The MPM3804GG-33-P employs constant-on-time (COT) control with input voltage feed-forward to maintain stable 2.4MHz switching across its 2.3V–5.5V input range, enabling fast transient response and simplified loop compensation. Its internal power stage integrates 130mΩ P-FET and 100mΩ N-FET switches optimized for efficiency at light-to-moderate loads.

Unlike adjustable variants, this variant replaces FB with an open-drain Power Good (PG) output that asserts high when VOUT is within ±7% of 3.3V (i.e., 3.07–3.53V), sinking up to 1mA with <100Ω R_DS(ON). Output discharge is enabled during shutdown via an internal 1kΩ resistor to GND.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3804GG-33-P uses a thermally enhanced QFN-10 (2mm × 2mm × 0.9mm) package with exposed thermal pad (GND-connected). Pin 1 is marked by a dot; pins are numbered counter-clockwise 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 LTM8003-3.3, the MPM3804GG-33-P delivers the smallest footprint (4mm²), built-in PG signaling, and lowest quiescent current (340μA) - making it optimal for size- and sequencing-critical IoT and optical applications where component count and board area are primary constraints.

Availability

MPM3804GG-33-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical transceivers, industrial sensor nodes, space-constrained IoT edge devices, and low-voltage I/O supply replacement requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPM3804GG-33-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 applications in optical communications, portable electronics, and industrial IoT - emphasizing ease of use, minimal external components, and robust protection features.

FAQ

What is the function of Pin 9 (PG) on the MPM3804GG-33-P?

Pin 9 is an open-drain Power Good (PG) output that signals valid regulation: it pulls low when VOUT drops below 3.07V (90% of 3.3V) and floats high (requiring external pull-up) when VOUT is within 3.07–3.53V. This enables precise power sequencing with host processors or FPGAs without additional monitoring circuitry.

Does the MPM3804GG-33-P require external feedback resistors?

No. The MPM3804GG-33-P has a factory-trimmed internal feedback network for fixed 3.3V output. Unlike the adjustable MPM3804GG variant, it replaces the FB pin with PG functionality - eliminating external resistors and reducing design complexity and component count.

How does the MPM3804GG-33-P handle short-circuit conditions?

It enters hiccup-mode short-circuit protection: the output is disabled, the soft-start capacitor is discharged, and the device attempts automatic restart after a brief delay. This cycle repeats until the fault clears, preventing thermal damage while maintaining system awareness through persistent PG deassertion.

Can the MPM3804GG-33-P operate with input voltage equal to output voltage?

Yes - it supports 100% duty cycle in dropout mode. When VIN drops to 3.3V or slightly below, the high-side P-FET remains fully on, passing input directly to output with minimal dropout (typically <150mV at 0.6A), enabling graceful operation during brownout conditions.

What is the recommended output capacitor for optimal ripple performance?

A 22μF X7R ceramic capacitor (1206 or larger) is recommended. The integrated 1μH inductor and 2.4MHz switching allow this value to achieve <10mVpp ripple at 0.6A load; using lower capacitance increases ripple, while higher values yield diminishing returns due to ESL dominance.

Is thermal pad connection mandatory for reliable operation?

Yes. The exposed thermal pad (connected internally to GND) must be soldered to a dedicated PCB copper pour tied to GND. Without this, θ_JA rises from 80°C/W to >120°C/W, risking thermal shutdown at ≤0.4A load - especially in enclosed or non-ventilated environments.

What is the soft-start time, and how is it implemented?

The internal soft-start time is 0.5ms (10% to 90% VOUT rise). It is fixed and unadjustable - implemented via an internal current source charging a capacitor to control the reference ramp. This prevents inrush current and output overshoot during power-up without requiring external components.