Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3810GQB-18-Z

Overview

MPM3810GQB-18-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fixed-output 1.8V, 1.2A peak synchronous step-down DC-DC power module with integrated inductor and MOSFETs, housed in a QFN-12 (2.5mm × 3.0mm × 0.9mm) package. It operates from 2.5V–6V input, delivers ±1.5% output accuracy at 10mA, features constant-on-time (COT) control for fast transient response, and includes EN, PG, thermal shutdown, and hiccup-mode short-circuit protection - ideal for space-constrained FPGA I/O rails and SSD power delivery.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3810GQB-18-Z datasheet, MPM3810GQB-18-Z pinout, MPM3810GQB-18-Z application, or MPM3810GQB-18-Z equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, application-specific implementation guidance, and confirmed alternative options for 1.8V point-of-load conversion in portable and embedded systems.

Technical Context

The MPM3810GQB-18-Z implements a constant-on-time (COT) control architecture with input voltage feed-forward, enabling stable 2.8–4.2MHz switching across input and load conditions. Its internal 0.47μH inductor and matched 100mΩ/60mΩ P/N-FET pair are co-optimized for minimal current ripple and high efficiency in discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) at light loads.

It integrates dedicated analog ground (AGND), output sense (OUT_S), and open-drain power-good (PG) with 550kΩ internal pull-up - supporting precise sequencing in multi-rail systems. The fixed 1.8V output eliminates external feedback resistors, reducing BOM count and layout sensitivity while maintaining ±10% PG window and 1.5ms soft-start.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3810GQB-18-Z uses a thermally enhanced QFN-12 package (2.5mm × 3.0mm × 0.9mm) with exposed thermal pad (pins 3–4 connected internally to SW node and tied to PCB copper for heat dissipation). The 12-pin layout supports compact 6mm × 3.8mm total solution size when paired with minimal external components.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output 1.8V step-down module applications.

Compared with RT6220BGQW and TPS826718SIPR, the MPM3810GQB-18-Z uniquely combines fixed 1.8V output, integrated inductor, PG signal, OUT_S sensing, and 17μA IQ in a 2.5mm × 3.0mm footprint - making it optimal for space-constrained, sequenced, and battery-sensitive 1.8V applications.

Availability

MPM3810GQB-18-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA I/O power, portable instrumentation, and SSD controller applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MPM3810GQB-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MPM3810 product line delivers fully integrated DC-DC power modules targeting space- and efficiency-critical applications in portable, industrial, and computing systems - emphasizing ease of use, thermal robustness, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current for MPM3810GQB-18-Z?

The MPM3810GQB-18-Z delivers up to 1.2A peak output current under typical conditions (VIN = 5V, TA = +25°C, 4-layer PCB). Continuous current depends on thermal design: with proper copper pour and airflow, 1.0A can be sustained at +85°C ambient. Derating is required above 85°C per θJA = 65°C/W.

Does MPM3810GQB-18-Z require external feedback resistors?

No. The "-18" suffix denotes a factory-trimmed fixed 1.8V output; the FB pin is internally connected and marked NC (no connect) in the datasheet. External resistors are unnecessary and must not be attached to avoid malfunction or damage.

Can MPM3810GQB-18-Z operate with a 3.3V input supplying a 1.8V output?

Yes. With VIN = 3.3V and VOUT = 1.8V, the device operates efficiently in CCM with ~3.2MHz switching frequency and >92% typical efficiency at 500mA. The 100% duty-cycle dropout capability ensures regulation down to VIN = 1.8V, though efficiency drops below 2.5V input.

How is thermal performance managed in the QFN-12 package?

Thermal performance relies on soldering pins 3–4 (NC/SW thermal pads) and the exposed bottom pad to a ≥100mm² copper pour on the PCB. With 2oz copper and 4 thermal vias, θJA drops from 65°C/W to ~42°C/W, enabling full 1.2A operation at +70°C ambient.

What happens during a short-circuit event on the output?

Upon short-circuit detection, the device enters hiccup mode: it disables the power stage, discharges the soft-start capacitor, waits ~10ms, then attempts a new soft-start cycle. This repeats until the fault clears, limiting average power dissipation and preventing thermal damage.

Is OUT_S pin mandatory for all applications?

No. OUT_S is optional for remote sensing. If PCB trace resistance between OUT and load is <20mΩ, connecting OUT_S directly to OUT is acceptable. For precision loads (e.g., ADC references), route OUT_S separately to the load's VCC pin to cancel IR drop.

What input capacitor value is recommended for MPM3810GQB-18-Z?

A 10μF X5R/X7R ceramic capacitor placed ≤2mm from VIN and PGND is sufficient for most 1.8V/1.2A applications. For high-ripple environments or VIN < 3.3V, add a 0.1μF NP0 ceramic in parallel to suppress HF noise and improve stability.