STMicroelectronics A6983CQTR
- Part No.:
- A6983CQTR
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- 16-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
A6983CQTR.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 3A 16QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,964
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Product details
Overview
A6983CQTR from STMicroelectronics is an AEC-Q100 qualified synchronous step-down DC-DC converter delivering up to 3 A output current, operating from 3.5 V to 38 V input, with 25 μA quiescent current in LCM mode and integrated compensation in a QFN16 (3 × 3 mm) package - designed for automotive body electronics requiring high efficiency at light load or low-noise operation in car audio systems.
For engineers reviewing the A6983CQTR datasheet, A6983CQTR pinout, A6983CQTR application, or A6983CQTR equivalent, key selection criteria include VIN range (3.5–38 V), dual-mode operation (LCM/LNM), programmable switching frequency (200 kHz–2.3 MHz), load-dump tolerance (40 V), and thermal protection (165 °C shutdown).
Technical Context
The A6983CQTR implements peak current mode control with internal slope compensation and a transconductance error amplifier featuring integrated compensation. It supports two distinct operational modes: Low Consumption Mode (LCM) enables pulse-skipping for <1 mA quiescent current at light loads, while Low Noise Mode (LNM) enforces constant-frequency forced PWM to minimize output voltage ripple and EMI.
Its EN/CLKIN pin serves dual functions - enable/disable control with 1.2 V threshold and external clock synchronization (LNM only, 200–2200 kHz). The device integrates high-side (0.13 Ω typ.) and low-side (0.085 Ω typ.) MOSFETs, power-good monitoring, overvoltage protection (120% VREF), and thermal shutdown at 165 °C with 30 °C hysteresis.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 3.5 V to 38 V - supports 12 V/24 V automotive battery rails and withstands load dump transients up to 40 V. |
| Output Current | 3 A DC - sufficient for powering microcontrollers, sensors, and LED drivers in automotive body modules. |
| Quiescent Current | 25 μA (LCM, VBIAS = GND) - enables always-on functionality during vehicle parking without excessive battery drain. |
| Switching Frequency | 200 kHz to 2.3 MHz (programmable via FSW resistor) - allows layout optimization for size (high fSW) or efficiency (low fSW). |
| Output Voltage Options | Adjustable (0.85 V to VIN) or fixed 3.3 V / 5.0 V - ±1.5% accuracy over -40 °C to +150 °C junction temperature. |
| Protection Features | Overvoltage (120% VREF), thermal shutdown (165 °C), pulse-by-pulse current limiting (4.1 A peak), and PGOOD open-drain flag - ensures robust system-level fault handling. |
| EMI Optimization | Spread spectrum dithering, parallel input path, minimized switch-node ringing - meets CISPR 25 Class 5 requirements in typical automotive layouts. |
Pinout & Package
Package: QFN16 (3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad connected to AGND/PGND for enhanced thermal performance (Rth_JA = 40 °C/W on reference board).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 12 VIN | Primary input supply | Dual VIN pins reduce PCB trace inductance and improve high-current path integrity for 3 A operation. |
| 2 VINLDO | LDO input filter node | Accepts RC-filtered input to stabilize internal bias rail and reduce noise coupling into analog circuitry. |
| 3, 10 AGND | Analog ground reference | Separate analog ground plane minimizes noise injection into error amplifier and feedback sensing paths. |
| 4 EN/CLKIN | Enable input / sync clock input | High-voltage-tolerant digital input; in LNM versions, accepts external 200–2200 kHz clock for EMI reduction and multi-rail synchronization. |
| 5 PGOOD | Power-good open-drain output | Signals valid regulation (VOUT within ±10% of target); requires external pull-up for system sequencing or MCU reset assertion. |
| 6 VBIAS | Bias supply selector | Connect to VOUT to reduce IQ by >90%; disconnect or tie to AGND for standalone operation. |
| 7 VOUT/FB | Output sense / feedback node | Configured as output pin (fixed versions) or FB input (adjustable versions); precision 0.85 V reference enables accurate regulation. |
| 8 FSW | Frequency programming | Resistor-to-ground sets switching frequency and enables optional spread-spectrum dithering for EMI compliance. |
| 9 VCC | Internal LDO output | 3.3 V ±10% regulated supply for analog blocks; requires ≥1 µF ceramic capacitor for stability. |
| 11 BOOT | High-side gate driver supply | Requires 100 nF capacitor between BOOT and SW to sustain gate drive during high-side conduction phase. |
| 13, 16 PGND | Power ground return | Dedicated low-impedance return path for high di/dt switching currents; must be separated from AGND except at single-point connection. |
| 14, 15 SW | Switching node | Two paralleled SW pins reduce trace inductance and thermal resistance for efficient 3 A power delivery. |
| E.P. | Exposed thermal pad | Must be soldered to AGND/PGND copper pour; primary thermal path for junction-to-board heat transfer. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Automotive qualification | AEC-Q100 Grade 1 (TJ = −40 °C to +150 °C) - validated for under-hood and cabin applications without derating. |
| Dual operational modes | LCM mode achieves ≤25 μA IQ at light load; LNM mode maintains constant fSW and <10 mVPP ripple for audio-sensitive circuits. |
| Integrated power stage | Monolithic 0.13 Ω HS / 0.085 Ω LS MOSFETs eliminate external FETs and gate drivers - reduces BOM count and layout complexity. |
| EMI-optimized architecture | Parallel input path, minimized switch-node area, and programmable spread spectrum reduce peak radiated emissions by >10 dBμV/m vs. standard buck. |
| Robust protection suite | Includes valley current limit (3.3–4.6 A), overvoltage clamp (120% VREF), and thermal shutdown with 30 °C hysteresis - prevents latch-up during fault conditions. |
Applications
| Car Body Control Module (LCM) | Automotive Audio Power Supply (LNM) |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Always-on door module powering window lift, mirror adjust, and interior lighting during vehicle sleep mode. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 5 V/3.3 V power rail regulator with ultra-low IQ (25 μA) and pulse-skipping LCM mode to extend battery life. Use Value: Enables >30-day battery hold-up time without recharge; eliminates need for external low-IQ LDOs or discrete PMIC sequencing. |
Use Scenario: High-fidelity DSP and amplifier supply in premium infotainment head units where switching noise must not modulate audio signals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed 5 V output regulator operating in LNM with constant 2.1 MHz fSW and spread spectrum to suppress narrowband EMI peaks. Use Value: Achieves <5 mVPP output ripple at full 3 A load - avoids audible switching artifacts and meets OEM EMC specifications. |
| Smart Ambient Lighting Driver | ADAS Camera Power Rail |
|
Use Scenario: RGBW LED strip controller in dashboard and footwell lighting, requiring stable 3.3 V supply with minimal thermal rise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable-output buck supplying 3.3 V at 2 A with internal compensation and thermal foldback at 150 °C. Use Value: Eliminates external compensation components; QFN16 package enables compact placement near LED drivers with direct thermal pad cooling. |
Use Scenario: Powering image sensor and ISP in forward-facing ADAS camera, demanding clean, sequenced, and fault-monitored 1.8 V/3.3 V rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-rail solution using A6983CQTR (5 V) followed by downstream LDOs, with PGOOD enabling precise power-up sequencing. Use Value: PGOOD flag synchronizes sensor initialization; overvoltage protection prevents damage from transient coupling on long harnesses. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MPQ4420AGL-A-Z | 36 V input, 2 A output, 25 μA IQ, no LNM mode, no spread spectrum, QFN12 (4 × 4 mm) | Lacks external clock sync and low-noise mode - unsuitable for audio or strict CISPR 25 Class 5 designs. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs EMI performance and 3 A output is not required. |
| TPS54332DRCT | 28 V input, 3 A output, 48 μA IQ, no AEC-Q100, SOIC-10 package, no integrated compensation | Non-automotive grade; requires external compensation network and larger footprint - increases design cycle time. | Select only for non-automotive industrial applications where AEC-Q100 is not mandated. |
Compared with MPQ4420AGL-A-Z and TPS54332DRCT, the A6983CQTR uniquely combines AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, dual LCM/LNM modes, integrated compensation, and EMI-optimized QFN16 packaging - making it the only choice for space-constrained, safety-critical automotive power rails requiring both ultra-low IQ and low-noise operation.
Availability
A6983CQTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, smart ambient lighting systems, ADAS camera power supplies, and infotainment audio subsystems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifecycle demands.
Supply support for A6983CQTR 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 specializing in automotive, industrial, and power management solutions, with over 40 years of analog and power IC innovation.
The A6983 belongs to ST's automotive-grade monolithic DC-DC converter product line, engineered specifically for under-hood and cabin power conversion where reliability, low IQ, and EMI robustness are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the difference between LCM and LNM versions of the A6983?
The A6983CQTR is the LCM (Low Consumption Mode) variant, optimized for ultra-low quiescent current (25 μA) via pulse-skipping at light loads - ideal for always-on automotive modules. LNM (Low Noise Mode) variants use forced PWM to maintain constant switching frequency and minimize output ripple, targeting audio and noise-sensitive applications. Pinout and package are identical; mode is determined by internal configuration and part number suffix.
Can the A6983CQTR be synchronized to an external clock?
No - external clock synchronization via the EN/CLKIN pin is supported only in LNM versions of the A6983. The A6983CQTR is an LCM variant; its EN pin functions solely as an enable input with 1.2 V threshold and wake-up capability. Attempting to apply an external clock signal will not alter switching behavior and may cause undefined operation.
How is thermal performance managed in the QFN16 package?
The QFN16 (3 × 3 mm) package features an exposed thermal pad that must be soldered to a dedicated AGND/PGND copper pour. With proper PCB layout (≥4 thermal vias to inner ground planes), the device achieves Rth_JA = 40 °C/W. Thermal shutdown activates at 165 °C with 30 °C hysteresis, and valley current limiting prevents thermal runaway during overload conditions.
Does the A6983CQTR require external compensation components?
No - the A6983CQTR integrates a complete compensation network for the transconductance error amplifier, eliminating the need for external Type II or Type III compensation networks. This reduces bill-of-materials count, PCB area, and design validation effort while maintaining stability across all operating conditions and output capacitor types.
A6983CQTR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 3.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 38V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.85V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 38V
- Current - Output:
- 3A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 200kHz ~ 2.3MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-QFN (3x3)
A6983CQTR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for A6983CQTR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for A6983CQTR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for A6983CQTR reliable?
The price and inventory of A6983CQTR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for A6983CQTR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for A6983CQTR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for A6983CQTR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for A6983CQTR?
A6983CQTR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your A6983CQTR order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for A6983CQTR?
For technical support, including A6983CQTR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your A6983CQTR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that A6983CQTR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All A6983CQTR products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that A6983CQTR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of A6983CQTR?
All A6983CQTR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with A6983CQTR, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The A6983CQTR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for A6983CQTR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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