Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP7230GLE-Z

Overview

MP7230GLE-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous buck-boost or buck LED driver optimized for automotive infrared illumination. It delivers up to 1.2A constant current in buck-boost mode (6V–42V input) or 3A in buck mode, supports 10Hz–2kHz PWM dimming, and integrates 44mΩ/40mΩ power MOSFETs in a QFN-19 (3mm×4mm) wettable flank package. It is deployed in driver monitoring systems (DMS) requiring precise IR LED control under wide input transients.

For engineers reviewing the MP7230GLE-Z datasheet, MP7230GLE-Z pinout, MP7230GLE-Z application, or MP7230GLE-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-mode topology configuration (via IREF resistor), NTC-based thermal derating capability, fault-indicating open-drain FAULT pin, and spread-spectrum EMI reduction at 410kHz nominal switching frequency.

Technical Context

The MP7230GLE-Z implements constant-frequency hysteretic control-enabling ultra-fast transient response without external loop compensation-and supports two distinct topologies: buck-boost (≤1.2A, ≤42V VIN, ≥6V VIN) and buck (≤3A, VOUT < VIN). Mode selection is determined by the resistor value on IREF: ≤9.09kΩ enables buck-boost; ≥14.7kΩ enables buck.

It features integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs with R_DS(ON) of 44mΩ/40mΩ, configurable LED current accuracy of ±5% (700mA–1.2A in buck-boost; 1A–2A in buck), and full protection including LED short/open detection, over-current latching, and thermal shutdown at 155°C–185°C. The device uses a dedicated NTC pin for remote temperature sensing and supports load-dump protection up to 42V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP7230GLE-Z is housed in a thermally enhanced QFN-19 (3mm × 4mm) package with wettable flanks and exposed thermal pad (PGND-connected). Pin 1 is marked by a dot; pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise orientation from top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar IR LED driver applications.

Compared with MP7230GLE-Z, MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-Z offers identical performance with formal AEC-Q100 documentation, while TLC59284PWP lacks integrated power stage, thermal intelligence, and automotive-grade robustness - making MP7230GLE-Z the sole fit for high-reliability DMS and night-vision systems.

Availability

MP7230GLE-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for driver monitoring systems (DMS), automotive night-vision cameras, and in-cabin occupancy detection requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and automotive lifecycle commitments.

Supply support for MP7230GLE-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 MPQ7230 product line targets automotive-grade LED drivers for safety-critical vision systems, emphasizing AEC-Q100 qualification, integrated fault protection, and EMI-optimized switching for camera-adjacent placement.

FAQ

What topology does MP7230GLE-Z operate in by default?

The MP7230GLE-Z has no fixed default topology-it enters buck-boost mode when the IREF resistor is ≤9.09kΩ and buck mode when ≥14.7kΩ. Mode detection occurs at the first rising edge of EN, and the configuration is latched until next power cycle. No firmware or external logic is needed.

Can MP7230GLE-Z drive multiple IR LED strings in parallel?

No-MP7230GLE-Z is a single-channel constant-current driver designed for one string. Driving parallel strings would cause current imbalance due to V_f mismatch. For multi-string systems, use one MP7230GLE-Z per string or select a multi-channel driver like MPQ7240 (dual-channel).

How is thermal derating implemented using the NTC pin?

The NTC pin sources current (950–1090μA) into an external NTC-resistor divider. When the voltage at NTC drops below 1.25V, 0.89V, or 0.53V, LED current is reduced to 98%, 74%, or 50% of nominal-enabling progressive dimming before thermal shutdown at 155°C–185°C.

Does MP7230GLE-Z support analog dimming?

No-MP7230GLE-Z only supports PWM dimming via the DIM pin (10Hz–2kHz). Analog dimming (current adjustment via ISET voltage) is not supported; ISET is a precision current-sense input with fault detection, not a modulation interface.

What is the purpose of the INGND pin, and how should it be connected?

INGND serves as the signal reference ground for DIM, EN, and FAULT in buck-boost topology. In buck mode, it must be connected directly to PGND or AGND. Leaving INGND floating or misconnected causes undefined behavior, including failure to detect DIM signals or incorrect FAULT assertion.

Is the FAULT pin active-high or active-low?

The FAULT pin is open-drain and active-low. It pulls down to ~0.2V when any fault condition occurs (LED short/open, OCP, OTP, false-mode detection). Its internal 300kΩ pull-up to VIN means it floats high when inactive-no external pull-up is required unless interfacing with 3.3V logic.

What is the minimum recommended ISET resistor value for 3A buck-mode operation?

For 3A output in buck mode, the ISET resistor must be 40.2kΩ (±1%). This sets VISET ≈ 0.592V and corresponds to the 5.3–7.3A peak current limit range. Using a lower resistance risks exceeding MOSFET SOA; higher resistance reduces output current proportionally.