Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P

Overview

MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified, synchronous step-down DC/DC power module integrating MOSFETs, inductor, and input/output capacitors in a QFN-17 package. It delivers 1.5A continuous output current across a 4V–36V input range, operates at 2.2MHz fixed frequency with frequency foldback, and features Power Good (PG), EN/SYNC control, and valley-current OCP with hiccup mode - deployed in automotive ADAS camera modules requiring compact, EMI-compliant 3.3V/1.5A rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P datasheet, MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P pinout, MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P application, or MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated inductor architecture, CISPR25 Class 5 radiated emissions compliance, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, thermal shutdown threshold (170°C), and PG open-drain indicator timing (90μs rising delay).

Technical Context

The MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P implements peak-current-mode control with internal 0.807V reference and optimized compensation, enabling stable regulation without external loop components. Its forced CCM operation ensures fixed-frequency behavior from no-load to full-load, minimizing light-load ripple and simplifying EMI filtering.

It integrates a 4.8V internal LDO (VCC) with built-in decoupling capacitance, eliminates external bootstrap diode requirements under most conditions, and uses valley-current detection for robust short-circuit protection - entering hiccup mode when output drops below 50% of setpoint while maintaining <1.2A reverse current limit.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable-flank QFN-17 package (3mm × 5mm × 1.6mm) with exposed thermal pad on underside for enhanced heat dissipation in automotive environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down module applications.

Compared with TPS82130SILR and LMZ31503RVQR, the MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P uniquely balances 36V input capability, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, CISPR25 Class 5 compliance, and minimal external component count - making it optimal for space-constrained, thermally demanding automotive camera and radar sub-systems.

Availability

MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS camera modules, telematics control units, and zonal gateway ECUs requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPM3515GQV-AEC1-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 analog and power ICs, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MPM3515 product line delivers fully integrated, AEC-Q100-qualified DC/DC modules targeting automotive power conversion needs where board space, thermal performance, and EMI compliance are critical constraints.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for continuous operation?

The MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P supports continuous operation up to 36V input, with absolute maximum rating of 40V. Operation beyond 36V risks exceeding internal MOSFET breakdown limits and invalidates AEC-Q100 qualification. Input transient tolerance is validated per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump), requiring external TVS clamping above 36V in vehicle systems.

Does this module require an external bootstrap capacitor or diode?

No external bootstrap capacitor or diode is required. The MPM3515GQV-AEC1-P integrates both the bootstrap capacitor and charging circuitry internally. An optional external BST diode (e.g., 1N4148) may be added only when VOUT is 3.3V or 5V and duty cycle exceeds 65%, to marginally improve efficiency - but it is not necessary for basic functionality or qualification compliance.

How is the Power Good (PG) signal timed relative to output regulation?

The PG signal asserts high after output reaches 90% of target voltage and remains stable for ≥90μs (max rising delay). It deasserts when output falls below 83% of target (PGVth_Lo = 0.83×VFB). PG is open-drain and requires an external pull-up resistor; typical rise/fall times depend on pull-up value and capacitive loading, but internal delays are guaranteed across -40°C to +125°C.

Can the switching frequency be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes - the EN/SYNC pin accepts external clock signals from 450kHz to 2.2MHz. Synchronization occurs on the rising edge of the external clock, aligning internal PWM cycles. External clock pulse width must be <350ns and off-time <1.9μs. This feature enables noise spectral spreading in multi-rail systems and eliminates beat frequencies in clustered converters.

What thermal derating applies above 85°C ambient temperature?

At TA = 100°C, output current derates to ~1.1A due to junction temperature limits (TJ ≤ 125°C). With standard 4-layer PCB and 2oz copper, θJA = 46°C/W; power dissipation must stay below PD = (125 − TA)/46. At 105°C ambient, max continuous output drops to ~0.95A. Thermal pad soldering and 6+ thermal vias to inner ground planes are mandatory for full 1.5A rating at high ambient.

Is the FB pin compatible with remote sensing configurations?

No - the FB pin is designed for local feedback only. The internal error amplifier references the voltage at the FB pin directly, and the datasheet specifies no remote-sense capability. For improved load regulation under high-current PCB trace resistance, place the feedback resistor divider as close as possible to the OUT and AGND pins, and avoid vias in the FB trace to minimize noise coupling.

What is the minimum output voltage achievable with this module?

The minimum regulated output voltage is 0.8V, set by the internal 0.807V reference and feedback divider. Output can be adjusted down to 0.8V using R1 = 75kΩ and R2 calculated per VOUT = 0.807V × (1 + R1/R2). Below 0.8V, regulation is not guaranteed; the device does not support adjustable reference or external reference injection.