MCP16321T-250E/NG Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MCP16321T-250E/NG is a buck switching regulator IC from Microchip Technology designed for positive fixed 2.5V output applications with 1A output current capability. This device operates across a 6V to 24V input voltage range and features a 1MHz switching frequency with integrated synchronous rectification. The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing design support and production continuity.

Substiute Parts

MCP16321T-250E/NG

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 2123MCP16321T-250E/NG Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MCP16311T-E/MNY

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 31774MCP16311T-E/MNY Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MCP16321T-250E/NG is determined by the following critical parameters:

Functional Requirements:

• Step-down (buck) topology with synchronous rectification
• 1A output current capability
• Operating temperature range of -40°C to 125°C

Electrical Compatibility:

• Input voltage range must encompass or exceed 6V to 24V
• Output voltage must be fixed at 2.5V or adjustable to 2.5V within the device's output range
• Switching frequency and efficiency characteristics must support the intended application

Physical & Compliance Requirements:

• Surface mount package suitable for PCB integration
• ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status
• Active product status preferred for long-term availability

The MCP16311T-E/MNY qualifies as a substitute based on these criteria, despite differences in package type and output configuration flexibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MCP16311T-E/MNY serves as the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete MCP16321T-250E/NG. Selection of this alternative is supported by the following factors:

Product Status & Availability: The MCP16311T-E/MNY maintains active product status with 31,700 units in stock, ensuring long-term availability compared to the obsolete MCP16321T-250E/NG with limited remaining inventory of 2,100 units.

Compliance & Certification: Both devices maintain ROHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, and identical moisture sensitivity levels (MSL 1 - Unlimited), ensuring regulatory and environmental compatibility.

Functional Equivalence: Both devices provide 1A output current with synchronous rectification and identical operating temperature ranges (-40°C to 125°C). The MCP16311T-E/MNY's adjustable output configuration (2V to 24V) encompasses the fixed 2.5V output of the original part, allowing 2.5V operation through external resistor network configuration.

Design Considerations: The MCP16311T-E/MNY operates at 500kHz switching frequency compared to the original 1MHz, and accepts a wider input voltage range (4.4V to 30V versus 6V to 24V). The package transition from 16-VFQFN to 8-WFDFN requires PCB layout modification. External resistor dividers are required to set the 2.5V output on the adjustable device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MCP16311T-E/MNY directly replace the MCP16321T-250E/NG without circuit modifications?

A: No. The MCP16311T-E/MNY requires external resistor dividers to set the output voltage to 2.5V, whereas the MCP16321T-250E/NG provides fixed 2.5V output. Additionally, the package change from 16-VFQFN to 8-WFDFN necessitates PCB layout redesign.

Q: What are the key electrical differences between these devices?

A: The primary differences are switching frequency (1MHz versus 500kHz), input voltage range (6V-24V versus 4.4V-30V), and output configuration (fixed versus adjustable). Both maintain 1A output current and identical operating temperature ranges.

Q: Is the MCP16311T-E/MNY suitable for applications requiring the original 1MHz switching frequency?

A: The MCP16311T-E/MNY operates at 500kHz. Applications with specific switching frequency requirements should evaluate whether this lower frequency meets EMI, filtering, and efficiency specifications.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences between the two parts?

A: No. Both devices maintain identical ROHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, and MSL 1 moisture sensitivity levels.

Q: What external components are required to configure the MCP16311T-E/MNY for 2.5V output?

A: The MCP16311T-E/MNY requires external resistor dividers connected to the feedback pin to establish the 2.5V output voltage. Specific resistor values depend on the device's feedback voltage reference, which should be obtained from the MCP16311 datasheet.

Q: Does the package size reduction from 16-VFQFN to 8-WFDFN affect thermal performance?

A: The 8-WFDFN package is smaller than the 16-VFQFN. Thermal performance depends on PCB layout, copper area, and thermal vias. Thermal analysis should be performed for the specific application to ensure adequate heat dissipation at 1A output current.