Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3822CGRH-P

Overview

MPM3822CGRH-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down power module with integrated inductor, delivering 2A continuous output current across a 2.75V–6V input range and regulating down to 0.6V. It operates in forced CCM with <10mV output ripple using a single output capacitor, features EN/PG for sequencing, and targets FPGA, ASIC, and optical module power rails where ultra-small footprint (2.5mm×3.5mm×1.6mm QFN-18) and low EMI are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3822CGRH-P datasheet, MPM3822CGRH-P pinout, MPM3822CGRH-P application, or MPM3822CGRH-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its constant-on-time control for fast transient response, ±10% PG threshold accuracy, 100% duty cycle capability in dropout, integrated thermal shutdown, and minimal external component count (only FB resistors, input/output capacitors required).

Technical Context

The MPM3822CGRH-P uses constant-on-time (COT) control with input voltage feed-forward to maintain stable switching frequency (~1.15MHz at 1.2V out) across input and load variations. Its forced CCM operation eliminates mode transitions, ensuring consistent ripple performance and predictable loop behavior under all load conditions.

Internal protection includes cycle-by-cycle over-current detection on both high-side (5.6A peak) and low-side (1.5A valley) switches, hiccup-mode short-circuit recovery, and thermal shutdown at 160°C with 30°C hysteresis. The open-drain PG pin features a 440kΩ internal pull-up to IN and asserts within ±10% of regulation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3822CGRH-P is housed in an ultra-small QFN-18 package measuring 2.5mm × 3.5mm × 1.6mm with exposed thermal pad (PGND). Pin layout supports optimal high-current routing and thermal dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPM3822CGRH-P, the MPM3683-20 offers higher current headroom at the cost of size and thermal density, while the TPS82084 trades adjustability and sequencing control for simplified qualification and fixed-output convenience in volume consumer designs.

Availability

MPM3822CGRH-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA core power, optical transceiver bias, ASIC SoC rails, portable SSD controller supplies, and space-limited industrial modules requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MPM3822CGRH-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 power management ICs and modules, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

The MPM38xx series targets ultra-compact, low-noise DC-DC conversion for next-generation computing, optical, and portable electronics where board space, thermal constraints, and EMI compliance are primary design drivers.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended output capacitance for stable operation?

The MPM3822CGRH-P requires a minimum 10μF ceramic output capacitor for stability across all operating conditions. For best ripple performance at 2A load, 22μF is recommended; values up to 100μF improve transient response without compromising loop stability. Use X5R/X7R dielectrics with low ESR and ensure placement near the OUT and PGND pins.

Does the device support power sequencing with other rails?

Yes - the EN pin accepts active-high logic control (1.2V threshold) and the open-drain PG pin provides a reliable power-good signal referenced to the input rail. PG asserts when FB voltage is within ±10% of 0.6V, enabling precise coordination with upstream/downstream regulators in multi-rail systems such as FPGAs or SoCs.

How does the constant-on-time (COT) control affect loop stability?

COT control eliminates traditional error amplifiers and compensation networks, resulting in inherently stable operation without external compensation components. Input voltage feed-forward maintains consistent switching frequency across input and output ranges, and the fixed minimum off-time (230ns) prevents subharmonic oscillation - enabling robust performance with minimal design effort.

Can the MPM3822CGRH-P operate with input voltage below 2.75V?

No - the absolute minimum input voltage is 2.75V per datasheet specifications. Below this, UVLO disables the device. The rising UVLO threshold is typically 2.5V with 400mV hysteresis, meaning the device remains off until VIN exceeds ~2.75V and stays enabled until VIN drops below ~2.35V. Operation outside this range is not guaranteed.

What thermal derating applies above 25°C ambient?

At TA = +25°C, maximum continuous power dissipation is 3W (θJA = 42°C/W on 2-layer PCB). Derating follows PD(MAX) = (150°C − TA)/42°C/W. At 85°C ambient, max dissipation drops to ~1.55W - corresponding to ~1.3A at 3.6V_IN/1.2V_OUT. Thermal pad soldering and copper area directly impact actual θJA; refer to EVM3822C-RH-00A layout for validated thermal performance.

Is the OUT_S pin mandatory for all applications?

OUT_S is optional but recommended for applications demanding tight load regulation (<±1%) across varying current levels. When used, it senses voltage directly at the load to compensate for PCB trace IR drop. If omitted, regulation relies on local feedback at the module's OUT pins - acceptable for short traces or lower-precision rails like I/O supplies.

What failure modes trigger hiccup-mode protection?

Hiccup mode activates when over-current condition persists for ≥100μs - specifically, when both high-side peak current limit (5.6A) and low-side valley current limit (1.5A) are reached every switching cycle. This occurs during sustained short circuits or severe overload. Recovery is automatic: soft-start reinitiates after discharge, repeating until fault clears.