Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3824CGPA-Z

Overview

MPM3824CGPA-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous step-down power module with integrated 0.47µH inductor, delivering up to 2A continuous output current across a 2.75V–6V input range while regulating output voltage down to 0.6V. It operates in forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM), achieves ≤8mV output ripple with single 22µF ceramic capacitor, and integrates EN and open-drain PG for sequencing-targeting FPGA core rails, optical transceiver bias supplies, and space-constrained SSD power stages.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3824CGPA-Z datasheet, MPM3824CGPA-Z pinout, MPM3824CGPA-Z application, or MPM3824CGPA-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its ECLGA-14 (2.5mm×2.5mm) ultra-small footprint, COT control enabling fast transient response (<140mV peak-to-peak under 0→2A load step), thermal shutdown at 150°C, and guaranteed 85% efficiency at 3.6V_IN/1.2V_OUT/2A.

Technical Context

The MPM3824CGPA-Z implements constant-on-time (COT) control with input voltage feed-forward, maintaining stable ~1.25MHz switching frequency across input and output voltage ranges. Its internal architecture integrates high-side P-channel and low-side N-channel MOSFETs with cycle-by-cycle peak (5.2A) and valley (2.5A) current limiting, plus hiccup-mode short-circuit protection triggered after 64 consecutive current-limit cycles.

It features separate AGND and PGND pins internally isolated, requiring single-point PCB connection; uses an external resistor divider on FB to set V_OUT (0.6V–6V); and provides OUT_S sense pin for remote feedback compensation. The SW pin is a test node only and must be left floating.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ECLGA-14 package (2.5mm × 2.5mm × 1.2mm) with exposed thermal pad; RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and lead-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TSM12020S and RT7297BZSP, the MPM3824CGPA-Z uniquely combines ultra-small ECLGA-14 size, integrated sense (OUT_S), hiccup-mode SCP, and PG signaling - making it optimal for miniaturized, safety-critical, and sequenced digital power applications where layout simplicity and reliability are prioritized over wide-VIN flexibility.

Availability

MPM3824CGPA-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA core power, optical transceiver bias, and portable medical sensor rails requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing for production ramp.

Supply support for MPM3824CGPA-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 power management ICs and modules, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

The MPM3824C product line delivers ultra-compact, high-efficiency DC/DC power modules targeting space-constrained applications in communications, computing, and portable electronics where integration, low noise, and thermal reliability are critical.

FAQ

What is the recommended input capacitor for MPM3824CGPA-Z?

A 22µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the IN and PGND pins is recommended. For VIN < 3.3V, additional capacitance may be needed. The capacitor must handle RMS current ≥1A and exhibit low ESR to minimize input ripple and ensure stable COT operation.

Can MPM3824CGPA-Z operate with only one output capacitor?

Yes - the device is characterized to achieve ≤8mV output ripple with a single 22µF ceramic capacitor due to FCCM operation and optimized internal control loop. This eliminates the need for parallel capacitors or bulk electrolytics in most applications.

How does the OUT_S pin improve regulation accuracy?

OUT_S provides remote voltage sensing at the load, compensating for IR drop across PCB traces between the module's OUT pins and the load. Connecting OUT_S directly to the load-side terminal of the output capacitor improves load regulation to ±0.5% across 0–2A, critical for precision analog or high-speed digital rails.

Is AGND required to be connected to PGND?

Yes - although AGND and PGND are isolated internally, they must be connected at a single point on the PCB near the IC. This prevents noise from high-current PGND paths from coupling into the sensitive FB and soft-start circuits, avoiding regulation instability or startup failure.

What happens during short-circuit conditions?

Upon sustained short, the device triggers cycle-by-cycle current limiting for 64 consecutive cycles, then enters hiccup mode: disabling the power stage, discharging the soft-start capacitor, and attempting automatic restart every ~10ms. This limits average power dissipation and prevents thermal damage without requiring external intervention.

Does MPM3824CGPA-Z support 100% duty cycle operation?

Yes - the device supports 100% duty cycle with a typical dropout resistance of 75mΩ. At 3.3V input and 3.3V output, it maintains regulation with minimal voltage drop, extending usable battery voltage range in portable systems and simplifying power tree design.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of the ECLGA-14 package?

The junction-to-ambient thermal resistance is 56.7°C/W under standard test conditions (5.1cm×5.1cm, 2-layer, 2oz copper board, no airflow). With proper thermal vias to inner ground planes, real-world θJA can be reduced to ~40°C/W, supporting 2A continuous operation at up to +85°C ambient.