STMicroelectronics ST5R30MTR

Overview

ST5R30MTR from STMicroelectronics is a micropower VFM step-up DC/DC converter optimized for battery-powered systems requiring ultra-low quiescent current (17 µA), regulated 3.0 V output (±5% accuracy), and operation down to 0.6 V hold-on input voltage. It delivers up to 100 mA output current with 82% typical efficiency at 50 mA, uses only three external components (inductor, Schottky diode, capacitor), and targets space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the ST5R30MTR datasheet, ST5R30MTR pinout, ST5R30MTR application, or ST5R30MTR equivalent, key selection criteria include start-up voltage (0.8–1.2 V), internal 850 mΩ switch RDSON, fixed 5 µs TON time, 150 kHz max oscillator frequency, and SOT23-5L package compatibility with low-noise, low-ripple power rail generation.

Technical Context

The ST5R30MTR employs a Voltage-Frequency Modulation (VFM) control architecture where TON is fixed at 5 µs and TOFF is dynamically adjusted by an error amplifier comparing the output voltage divider signal against an internal bandgap reference (Vref). This enables ultra-low quiescent current under light loads while maintaining regulation across varying output currents.

Its internal power switch features 850 mΩ RDSON (at ILX = 150 mA), and overcurrent protection operates by sensing VLX = RDSON × ISW to limit peak inductor current. The device bootstraps its supply from the output pin, allowing VIN to sag to 0.6 V during operation while sustaining 3.0 V output.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT23-5L package: 5-pin surface-mount, 1.45 mm height, 2.8–3.0 mm length, 1.5–1.75 mm width, 0.95 mm pin pitch. Exposed pad not present. RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-up DC/DC converter applications.

Compared with TPS61022DRVR and MAX1706BESA+, ST5R30MTR uniquely balances 100 mA capability, 0.6 V hold-on, and 17 µA IQ in a 5-pin SOT23-5L-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, long-life portable devices where moderate current and deep discharge tolerance are essential.

Availability

ST5R30MTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for pager power management, digital camera flash support, wireless telephone base station backup, and palmtop computer configuration retention requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for ST5R30MTR 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing analog, microcontroller, power, and sensor solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The ST5R00 series was developed specifically for ultra-low-power, single-cell battery-powered portable electronics needing efficient, compact, and reliable step-up conversion without external compensation or complex layout.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required to start up the ST5R30MTR?

The ST5R30MTR starts up when the difference between input voltage and Schottky diode forward voltage (VIN − VF) reaches 0.8–1.2 V, depending on temperature and load. With a typical VF of 0.3 V (e.g., STPS1L30A), this corresponds to ~1.1–1.5 V applied to VIN. Startup is diode-dependent and verified per application circuit.

Can the ST5R30MTR operate with an input voltage higher than its 3.0 V output?

Yes - if VIN exceeds VOUT, the output follows VIN minus diode drop, but neither VIN nor VOUT may exceed 5.5 V absolute maximum. The device remains functional and regulates normally once VIN drops below VOUT, provided it stays above the 0.6 V hold-on threshold.

Why does the ST5R30MTR use VFM instead of PWM control?

VFM control fixes TON at 5 µs and varies TOFF based on load, enabling ultra-low quiescent current (17 µA) under light loads while maintaining regulation. This avoids the switching losses inherent in PWM at low duty cycles, directly extending battery life in intermittent-use applications like pagers and remote controls.

Which external components are mandatory, and what are their critical parameters?

Mandatory components are a 47 µH inductor (DCR < 0.25 Ω, saturation current > 300 mA), Schottky diode (VF < 0.4 V, e.g., STPS1L30A), and 47 µF low-ESR tantalum output capacitor. Input capacitor (4.7 µF ceramic) is recommended for stability. All must be placed adjacent to pins per layout guidelines to suppress noise and ensure startup reliability.