Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z 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 single QFN-17 package. It delivers 1.5A continuous output current across a 4V–36V input range, features fixed 2.2MHz switching frequency with frequency foldback above 21V, and includes power-good (PG) indicator, valley-current OCP with hiccup mode, and thermal shutdown - enabling compact, robust 3.3V/1.5A supplies for automotive ADAS camera modules.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z pinout, MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z application, or MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated inductor architecture, wettable-flank QFN-17 package for automated optical inspection, CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance, and AEC-Q100 qualification for under-hood automotive use.

Technical Context

The MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z employs peak-current-mode control with internal 0.807V reference and optimized compensation, enabling stable regulation from no-load to full-load in forced CCM. Its integrated 4.8V VCC LDO powers internal circuitry across the full 4V–36V input range, eliminating external bias supply requirements.

It implements dual-stage over-current protection: cycle-by-cycle peak-current limiting during HS-FET conduction and valley-current detection that triggers frequency foldback and hiccup mode under sustained overload or short-circuit. Thermal shutdown activates at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis, and UVLO engages below 3.5V VCC.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z uses a space-saving QFN-17 (3mm × 5mm × 1.6mm) wettable flank package with exposed thermal pad on bottom for enhanced heat dissipation. The package supports automated optical inspection (AOI) and reflow-compatible soldering.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z, the MPM3610GQV-AEC1-Z offers higher current headroom while maintaining identical footprint and qualification, whereas the TPS82130SILR trades automotive compliance and EMI performance for higher current and TI ecosystem support - making it unsuitable for safety-critical vehicle domains.

Availability

MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS camera modules, industrial PLC I/O subsystems, and medical imaging sensor bias supplies requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 traceability, and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MPM3515GQV-AEC1-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 analog and power ICs, with design centers in the US, China, Korea, and Taiwan, and global distribution through authorized partners.

The MPM3515 product line delivers fully integrated DC/DC modules targeting space-constrained, high-reliability applications in automotive, industrial, and medical markets - emphasizing simplified design, AEC-Q100 compliance, and EMI robustness.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended output capacitance for stable operation?

The MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z is optimized for ceramic output capacitors ranging from 22µF to 100µF with X5R/X7R dielectric. Using >100µF may destabilize the internal compensation loop due to excessive phase shift; 47µF is the validated value for 3.3V/1.5A operation per the reference design.

Does the device require an external bootstrap capacitor or diode?

No. The MPM3515GQV-AEC1-Z integrates both the bootstrap capacitor and charging circuitry internally. An external BST diode (e.g., 1N4148) is optional only for efficiency improvement at high duty cycles (>65%) with 3.3V/5V outputs - not required for basic operation.

How does frequency foldback improve system reliability during fault conditions?

During short-circuit or overvoltage events, frequency foldback reduces switching frequency to ~1.1MHz, lowering peak inductor current and average power dissipation. This prevents thermal runaway and extends time-to-failure, allowing hiccup-mode recovery instead of immediate thermal shutdown.

Can EN/SYNC be left floating for default-enable operation?

Yes. An internal 500kΩ pull-down resistor connects EN/SYNC to GND, so floating the pin disables the device. To enable by default, tie EN/SYNC to VIN through a ≥55kΩ resistor (for 12V input) or directly to a ≥1.45V logic-high source - never exceed 6.5V to avoid Zener clamp damage.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of the QFN-17 package under standard JEDEC conditions?

The specified θJA is 46°C/W when measured on a 4-layer JEDEC JESD51-7 test board. Achieving this value requires proper PCB layout: a 20mm² exposed thermal pad connected to an internal ground plane via ≥6 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter), and minimized trace length between IN/PGND and input capacitor.

Is the PG pin compatible with 1.8V logic systems?

Yes. The PG pin is open-drain with 4mA sink capability and 0.4V max saturation voltage at 4mA. When pulled up to 1.8V, it delivers clean logic-low signaling; ensure the pull-up resistor is ≤10kΩ to guarantee fast rise time and noise immunity in noisy automotive environments.

How does the internal soft-start time affect system boot sequencing?

The fixed 1.7ms soft-start ramps the internal reference voltage linearly, preventing output overshoot and reducing inrush current into downstream capacitors. This allows safe power-up of sensitive image sensors and FPGAs without external sequencing controllers.