NXP Semiconductors MC34713EP

Overview

MC34713EP from Freescale Semiconductor is a fully integrated 5.0 A synchronous buck switching regulator with integrated 50 mΩ N-channel power MOSFETs, operating from 3.0 V to 6.0 V input and delivering 0.7–3.6 V output with ±1% accuracy. It features 1.0 MHz default switching frequency, voltage tracking via VREFIN, and active-low power-good (PG) signaling - deployed in point-of-load (PoL) power delivery for FPGA, ASIC, and microcontroller core rails.

For engineers reviewing the MC34713EP datasheet, MC34713EP pinout, MC34713EP application, or MC34713EP equivalent, key selection considerations include its thermally enhanced 24-pin QFN package with exposed pad, programmable soft-start timing, over-current/thermal/over-voltage protection, and voltage-mode control architecture with type III compensation support.

Technical Context

The MC34713EP implements a voltage-mode synchronous buck topology with monolithic integration of high-side and low-side N-channel MOSFETs (R_DS(ON) ≤ 50 mΩ each), enabling high-efficiency PoL conversion up to 5.0 A continuous output. Its internal bias circuit generates a regulated 2.5 V VDDI supply and references a precision bandgap for error amplifier operation.

Control logic interprets SD pin state for Normal/Shutdown mode transitions, initiates soft-start based on ILIM voltage (1.25–VDDI), and adjusts switching frequency (200 kHz–1.0 MHz) via FREQ pin resistor divider. Protection functions include cycle-by-cycle over-current limiting, thermal shutdown at 170°C, and 5–25 µs filtered OVP/UVP detection with PG assertion.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Housed in a Pb-free, thermally enhanced 24-pin Exposed Pad QFN (EP suffix), the MC34713EP uses the exposed thermal pad (Pin 25) as GND for heat sinking and must be soldered to a dedicated analog ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck regulator applications.

Compared with MP2315DJ-LF-Z and TPS54560BQPWPRQ1, the MC34713EP uniquely integrates tracking, 5 A capability, and thermal pad QFN in one industrial-grade device - offering lowest component count for FPGA/ASIC PoL where sequencing and accuracy are critical.

Availability

MC34713EP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA core power, ASIC I/O supply, microcontroller core rails, DDR termination, and industrial embedded PoL applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MC34713EP 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

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors) is a global leader in embedded processing and analog power solutions, with expertise in automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MC34713EP belongs to Freescale's SMARTMOS-based PoL regulator family, designed specifically for high-current, space-constrained digital system power delivery with integrated protection and sequencing capabilities.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the MC34713EP?

The MC34713EP supports 5.0 A continuous output current under specified thermal conditions (T_A ≤ 85°C, 4-layer PCB). This rating assumes proper thermal design including soldering the exposed pad to a ground plane and maintaining junction temperature below 150°C. The device includes over-current limiting at 6.5 A (typical) and short-circuit shutdown at 8.5 A (typical) to protect against transient overload.

Does the MC34713EP require external MOSFETs for operation?

No, the MC34713EP does not require external MOSFETs. It integrates both high-side and low-side N-channel power MOSFETs with R_DS(ON) ≤ 50 mΩ each, forming a complete synchronous buck stage. This monolithic integration eliminates gate drivers, external switches, and associated layout complexity - making the MC34713EP a true single-chip solution for up to 5 A PoL applications.

How does voltage tracking work on the MC34713EP?

Voltage tracking on the MC34713EP is implemented via the VREFIN pin (Pin 7), which accepts an external reference voltage from 0 V to 1.35 V. The output voltage follows this reference in configurable modes - such as ratiometric (V_OUT = k × V_REFIN) or offset tracking - enabling coordinated power-up/down of dependent rails like VDDQ and VTT. The MC34713EP uses this signal during startup until VREFIN reaches 0.7 V, then defaults to its internal 0.7 V reference.

What package type and thermal characteristics does the MC34713EP use?

The MC34713EP uses a 24-pin Exposed Pad QFN package (EP suffix) with a thermal pad (Pin 25) that must be soldered to the PCB ground plane. Its thermal resistance is 43 °C/W (junction-to-ambient, 4-layer board) and 22 °C/W (junction-to-board), enabling efficient heat dissipation at full 5 A load. The package complies with Pb-free reflow standards per JEDEC J-STD-020C.

Can the MC34713EP be used in automotive applications?

The MC34713EP is rated for −40°C to +85°C ambient operation and is qualified for industrial applications. While it meets key automotive electrical requirements (e.g., ESD robustness, thermal shutdown), it is not AEC-Q100 qualified and lacks automotive-specific documentation or stress testing. For automotive use, designers should verify compliance with vehicle-level requirements and consider NXP's automotive-grade alternatives such as the FS32K148 or TPS65381A-Q1.