Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MP7235GQBE-P

Overview

MP7235GQBE-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a synchronous buck LED driver IC optimized for infrared (IR) radiation applications, integrating high-side and low-side MOSFETs (85 mΩ / 50 mΩ R_DS(ON)) to deliver up to 1.5 A continuous LED current and 3 A peak current with PWM dimming down to 10 Hz. It operates across 4 V–36 V input, features 2.2 MHz fixed switching frequency, and supports 30/60/120 fps camera synchronization in driver monitoring systems.

For engineers reviewing the MP7235GQBE-P datasheet, MP7235GQBE-P pinout, MP7235GQBE-P application, or MP7235GQBE-P equivalent, key selection criteria include IR-specific dimming compatibility at ultra-low frequencies, integrated wettable-flank QFN-13 packaging for automated optical inspection, CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance, and fault reporting via open-drain /FAULT pin for LED short/open and thermal events.

Technical Context

The MP7235GQBE-P employs peak-current-mode control with fixed 2.2 MHz switching and forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM), ensuring stable regulation from no-load to full-load while minimizing output ripple. Its internal 0.2 V feedback reference enables precise current sensing across wide LED forward voltage ranges.

It integrates a bootstrap regulator for high-side gate drive, valley-current-detection over-current protection, and dual ground domains (AGND and PGND) with internal connection-reducing layout complexity while maintaining signal integrity for analog feedback and power switching paths.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MP7235GQBE-P is housed in a wettable-flank QFN-13 package (2.5 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), enabling solder joint inspection and enhanced thermal performance via exposed PGND pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MP7235GQBE-P, the MPQ7235GQBE-A adds automotive qualification without altering performance, while the LT3965 offers multi-channel flexibility at the expense of single-channel efficiency and footprint size-making MP7235GQBE-P optimal for cost-sensitive, single-array IR illumination where compactness and EMI compliance are primary.

Availability

MP7235GQBE-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for infrared driver monitoring systems, automotive night vision modules, and surveillance camera illumination requiring stable component supply with wettable-flank QFN packaging and CISPR25 Class 5 compliance.

Supply support for MP7235GQBE-P 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 over two decades of expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP7235 belongs to MPS's high-frequency synchronous buck LED driver product line, designed specifically for infrared illumination in automotive and security applications demanding low EMI, precise PWM timing, and robust fault handling.

FAQ

What is the minimum PWM dimming frequency supported by MP7235GQBE-P?

The MP7235GQBE-P supports PWM dimming down to 10 Hz, verified per datasheet Section 8.2 and validated in typical performance curves (Figure 14). This enables flicker-free operation for slow-frame-rate imaging systems such as 30 fps driver monitoring cameras without visible artifacts or timing misalignment.

Does MP7235GQBE-P require an external bootstrap resistor?

Yes-the datasheet strongly recommends a 20 Ω resistor between SW and the BST capacitor to suppress voltage spikes on the bootstrap node. This mitigates gate-drive instability and prevents false triggering of the high-side MOSFET, especially during fast PWM transitions or high-current pulses.

How does the /FAULT pin indicate LED open-circuit conditions?

The /FAULT pin pulls low during LED open faults, as confirmed in Figure 16 and Section 9.2.2. It remains asserted until the fault condition clears and the device completes soft-start recovery-providing unambiguous system-level fault signaling without requiring additional monitoring circuitry.

Can MP7235GQBE-P drive a single 3.2 V IR LED at 3 A peak current?

Yes-efficiency curves (Figure 10) confirm ≥82% efficiency at 1 LED (3.2 V), 3 A peak, 12 V input, and 2.2 µH inductance. The 3 A peak rating applies across V_LED ranges, provided thermal design maintains T_J ≤ 125°C under pulsed operation.

Is the QFN-13 package of MP7235GQBE-P compatible with standard reflow profiles?

Yes-the MP7235GQBE-P uses a standard Pb-free, halogen-free QFN-13 package rated for JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1, supporting industry-standard reflow profiles including peak temperatures up to 260°C for 30 seconds.

What is the purpose of separating AGND and PGND pins on MP7235GQBE-P?

AGND serves as the quiet reference for analog circuits (FB, DIM, error amplifier), while PGND carries high di/dt switching currents. Though internally connected, separate board-level routing minimizes noise coupling into the current-sense path-critical for stable regulation at low V_FB (200 mV) and high PWM fidelity.

Does MP7235GQBE-P support analog dimming via the FB pin?

No-the MP7235GQBE-P only supports PWM dimming via the DIM pin. Analog dimming is not implemented; the FB pin is strictly for current-sense feedback and must not be externally modulated, as this would disrupt regulation loop stability and violate the fixed 200 mV reference architecture.