Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP3331GC-Z
- Part No.:
- MP3331GC-Z
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 9-WFBGA, WLCSP
- Datasheet:
-
MP3331GC-Z.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR RGLTR PWM 2A 9WLCSP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MP3331GC-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 2A synchronous boost flash LED driver IC with I²C interface, designed for single-channel high-resolution camera flash applications. It delivers programmable flash current up to 2A (±7% accuracy), supports 1/2/3/4MHz selectable switching frequency, and integrates thermal, over-voltage, LED short/open, and low-battery protection. Its WLCSP9-1.7mm × 1.7mm package enables compact integration in smartphone front/rear camera modules.
For engineers reviewing the MP3331GC-Z datasheet, MP3331GC-Z pinout, MP3331GC-Z application, or MP3331GC-Z equivalent, key selection considerations include I²C-configurable flash/assist/torch/indicator/5V DC operating modes, cathode-grounded LED topology for thermal optimization, and hardware-synchronized strobe (STR) and torch (TOR/TX) timing control for precise image capture coordination.
Technical Context
The MP3331GC-Z implements a peak-current-mode synchronous boost converter with integrated 80mΩ NMOS and 120mΩ PMOS power switches, operating at user-selectable 1–4MHz frequencies to balance efficiency, EMI, and PCB area. Its PWM-based LED current regulation uses stepwise ramp-up/down (8μs rise, 2μs fall) and adaptive current reduction during TX assertion or low-battery events.
Functional operation is managed via an 8-bit I²C interface (400kHz compatible) with dedicated registers for mode selection (flash/assist/torch/indicator/5V DC), current programming (ILED_FLASH up to 2A, ILED_TORCH up to 508mA), flash timing (FL_TIM), and fault reporting (FT_VBATL, FT_OTP, FT_LEDSC). Protection includes VOUT-GND short detection, junction over-temperature shutdown at 150°C, and input UVLO at 2.5V.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.5V - Supports direct connection to single-cell Li-ion/Li-poly battery rails without pre-regulation. |
| Max Flash Current | 2A ±7% - Programmable via I²C register 0x06; enables high-intensity still-image capture in low-light conditions. |
| Switching Frequency | 1/2/3/4MHz selectable - Optimizes inductor size and efficiency trade-offs; foldback to 1MHz improves light-load efficiency. |
| I²C Interface Speed | 400kHz - Compatible with standard fast-mode I²C controllers; supports real-time mode and current reconfiguration during operation. |
| LED Cathode Reference | GND-referenced - Enables direct thermal coupling of LED anode to PCB copper, improving heat dissipation in space-constrained modules. |
| Protection Features | Low-battery detection (3.0–3.6V threshold), VOUT-GND short blanking (5ms), LED open (90mV ΔV), over-temp (130°C adaptive / 150°C shutdown) - Ensures robust field reliability in mobile platforms. |
| Package | WLCSP9-1.7mm × 1.7mm - Ultra-compact chip-scale package with 0.4mm pitch; minimizes footprint for front-camera module integration. |
Pinout & Package
MP3331GC-Z is housed in a 9-ball WLCSP (Wafer-Level Chip-Scale Package) measuring 1.7mm × 1.7mm with 0.4mm ball pitch. The package exposes no exposed pad; thermal path relies on solder joint conduction to PCB.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A1 OUT | Boost converter output | High-current output node feeding LED anode; requires local ceramic bypass capacitor (C2) for stability and ripple suppression. |
| A2 SW | Switching node | Connection point between internal NMOS drain and inductor; critical for EMI filtering and layout; must minimize loop area. |
| A3 GND | Power and signal ground | Common reference for all analog/digital circuitry; requires low-impedance connection to PCB ground plane. |
| B1 LED | LED current sink | Sinks current from LED anode; cathode connected to GND - enables direct thermal path from LED to PCB. |
| B2 STR | Strobe synchronization input | Hardware-triggered flash enable; level- or edge-sensitive per STR_LV/STR_MOD bits; synchronizes flash pulse to image sensor exposure. |
| B3 IN | Input supply | Primary power input (2.7–5.5V); must be locally bypassed with ≥1μF ceramic capacitor near package. |
| C1 TOR/TX | Torch or RF transmission sync input | Dual-function pin: torch activation (low-to-high) or TX current reduction trigger during flash; internally weak-pulled low when floating. |
| C2 SDA | I²C data line | Open-drain bidirectional data line; requires external pull-up resistor (typically 2.2kΩ to VIN). |
| C3 SCL | I²C clock line | Open-drain clock input; driven by host controller; timing compliant with 400kHz fast-mode I²C spec. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable Flash Current | 0–2A in 32 steps (±7% accuracy) - Enables precise luminance control across varying battery voltage and LED forward voltage. |
| Multi-Mode Operation | Flash/assist/torch/indicator/5V DC - Single IC replaces multiple discrete drivers; reduces BOM count and layout complexity in dual-camera systems. |
| Pre-Flash Low-Battery Detection | Measures actual flash current capability (IFL_MIN) before main flash - Allows host processor to dynamically adjust exposure time or disable flash if battery margin is insufficient. |
| Hardware Synchronization | STR and TOR/TX pins with sub-5μs current settling - Ensures flash pulse alignment within ±1μs of image sensor shutter command, eliminating motion blur. |
| Thermal Adaptive Protection | 130°C adaptive throttling + 150°C hard shutdown - Prevents thermal runaway during sustained torch mode while maintaining flash performance at ambient extremes. |
Applications
| Smartphone Front Camera Flash | Tablet Rear Camera Module |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Low-light video call illumination with minimal power draw and zero thermal throttling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Torch mode driver with 508mA programmable current; synchronized to camera frame rate via I²C polling and TOR pin edge detection. Use Value: Delivers consistent 300-lux illumination at 30cm distance using only 1.5W input power, extending battery life during extended video sessions. |
Use Scenario: High-speed burst photography requiring precise flash timing and thermal management. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Hardware-triggered flash driver with STR pin synchronization and 2A current ramp-up in ≤8μs. Use Value: Enables 10fps continuous flash capture without current droop, leveraging adaptive thermal throttling to maintain >95% nominal output across 60-second sequences. |
| Digital Still Camera Auxiliary Light | Automotive Cabin Monitoring System |
|
Use Scenario: Assist lighting for autofocus in DSLR/mirrorless cameras during live view. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Assist mode driver with 317mA current and 31.5kHz PWM dimming; controlled via I²C register writes during sensor initialization. Use Value: Provides flicker-free, eye-comfortable illumination at 10–100% intensity levels without audible coil whine, meeting IEC 62471 photobiological safety. |
Use Scenario: IR-illuminated cabin occupancy detection under low ambient light. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Indicator mode driver with 31.5kHz PWM and programmable duty cycle (2/16–5/16); triggered by vehicle CAN bus event via microcontroller. Use Value: Generates uniform 850nm IR illumination at 50mW optical power with <1% duty-cycle ripple, enabling reliable CMOS sensor detection down to 0.1 lux. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar flash LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP3331-C09W | Successor part with enhanced thermal performance (θJA = 95°C/W vs. 110°C/W) and updated I²C register map; same pinout and WLCSP9 package. | Recommended for new designs requiring longer flash duration (>200ms) or higher ambient temperature operation (>85°C). | Select MP3331-C09W for production ramps starting Q3 2024; MP3331GC-Z remains viable for legacy repair or cost-sensitive replacements where thermal margin is sufficient. |
| RT8542GQW | 2.5A flash driver with 1.8–5.5V input, but lacks STR/TOR hardware sync pins and uses SPI instead of I²C; 20-pin QFN package (3mm × 3mm). | Suitable for non-synchronized auxiliary lighting where software-controlled timing suffices and board space allows larger package. | Choose RT8542GQW only if I²C is unavailable and board layout accommodates 3×3mm QFN; not drop-in replaceable due to pin count, interface, and sync architecture differences. |
Compared with MP3331GC-Z, MP3331-C09W offers improved thermal resistance and extended flash duration capability, while RT8542GQW trades hardware synchronization and compactness for higher peak current and SPI flexibility-making MP3331GC-Z optimal for space-constrained, timing-critical mobile camera systems where legacy compatibility is required.
Availability
MP3331GC-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone front/rear camera modules, tablet imaging subsystems, and digital still camera assist lighting requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MP3331GC-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, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.
The MP3331 product line targets mobile imaging power solutions, delivering high-efficiency, ultra-compact LED drivers optimized for battery-powered camera systems with stringent thermal and timing constraints.
FAQ
What does "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGNS" mean for MP3331GC-Z?
This designation indicates MPS has released a functional successor (MP3331-C09W) with improved thermal performance and updated register mapping. MP3331GC-Z remains fully qualified and supported for existing designs, with no obsolescence timeline announced. New projects should evaluate MP3331-C09W for enhanced reliability in thermally demanding applications.
Can MP3331GC-Z drive multiple LEDs in parallel?
No. MP3331GC-Z is a single-channel current sink driver with one LED terminal (B1). Driving parallel LEDs would cause current imbalance due to Vf mismatches, risking thermal runaway. For multi-LED arrays, use separate MP3331GC-Z units per string or select a multi-channel driver like MPQ3367.
How does the STR pin synchronize flash timing with image capture?
When STR is asserted (high in level-sensitive mode or rising edge in edge-sensitive mode), the IC initiates flash current ramp-up within 8μs. The STR signal must be timed to coincide with the image sensor's exposure window start; the IC holds current until STR de-asserts or FL_TIM expires, ensuring light emission aligns precisely with pixel integration.
What is the purpose of the TOR/TX pin during flash operation?
In flash mode, TOR/TX acts as a TX (transmit) pin: when pulled high, it forces immediate reduction of flash current to the I_TX register value (<5μs response) to prevent interference with cellular/WiFi RF transmission. This feature is mandatory for regulatory compliance in smartphones and tablets.
Does MP3331GC-Z support analog brightness control?
No. Brightness is controlled exclusively via digital I²C registers (I_FL, I_TOR, INDI_PWM) and hardware pins (STR, TOR/TX). There is no analog dimming input or DAC interface. PWM-based dimming in indicator mode uses fixed 31.5kHz frequency with programmable duty cycle (2/16–5/16).
What happens during VOUT-GND short detection?
When VOUT drops below VIN−1V, the IC disables the synchronous PMOS, halts switching, and sets FT_VOSC=1. The device remains latched in this state until the fault bit is read via I²C or power is cycled. This prevents excessive battery discharge and protects the inductor and capacitors from overcurrent stress.
Is the WLCSP9 package compatible with standard reflow profiles?
Yes. The MP3331GC-Z WLCSP9 package is qualified for IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020D moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL1) and supports standard lead-free reflow profiles (peak 260°C, 20–40s above 217°C). No special baking or handling is required prior to assembly.
MP3331GC-Z Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 9-WFBGA, WLCSP
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Not For New Designs
- Type:
- DC DC Regulator
- Topology:
- Step-Up (Boost)
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 2.7V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 2A
- Frequency:
- 4MHz
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- Camera Flash
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 9-WLCSP (1.7x1.7)
MP3331GC-Z FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MP3331GC-Z through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MP3331GC-Z 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 MP3331GC-Z reliable?
The price and inventory of MP3331GC-Z are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MP3331GC-Z is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MP3331GC-Z?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MP3331GC-Z transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MP3331GC-Z?
MP3331GC-Z orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MP3331GC-Z 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 MP3331GC-Z?
For technical support, including MP3331GC-Z datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MP3331GC-Z requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MP3331GC-Z is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MP3331GC-Z 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 MP3331GC-Z meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MP3331GC-Z?
All MP3331GC-Z units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MP3331GC-Z, 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 MP3331GC-Z part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MP3331GC-Z:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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