Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3515GQV-Z

Overview

MPM3515GQV-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully integrated, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous step-down DC/DC power module with built-in MOSFETs, inductor, and input/output capacitors. It delivers 1.5A continuous output current from a 4V–36V input, operates at 2.2MHz fixed frequency, features Power Good (PG) indication, and supports frequency synchronization from 450kHz to 2.2MHz - ideal for automotive infotainment power rails and industrial sensor node supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3515GQV-Z datasheet, MPM3515GQV-Z pinout, MPM3515GQV-Z application, or MPM3515GQV-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its QFN-17 wettable flank package, integrated EMI-compliant design (CISPR25 Class 5), valley-current OCP with hiccup mode, forced CCM operation across load range, and internal 4.8V VCC LDO eliminating external bias capacitance.

Technical Context

The MPM3515GQV-Z implements peak-current-mode control with an internal 0.807V reference and optimized compensation network, enabling stable regulation without external loop components. Its fixed 2.2MHz switching frequency ensures fast transient response and compact filter sizing, while frequency foldback activates below 450kHz when VIN exceeds ~21V or during short-circuit events.

It integrates a 4.8V internal LDO regulator powered directly from VIN, with internal decoupling - no external VCC capacitor required. The bootstrap circuit uses an integrated capacitor and internal PMOS charger, supported by a dedicated UVLO (2.2V rising) for the floating driver, and thermal shutdown triggers at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3515GQV-Z is housed in a space-saving QFN-17 (3mm × 5mm × 1.6mm) wettable flank package with exposed thermal pad (PGND-connected) for enhanced thermal performance in automotive and industrial environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPM3515GQV-Z, the MPM3610GQV-Z offers higher current capacity in identical footprint but trades off inductor value and thermal margin, while the TPSM84203 demands more external components and lacks automotive qualification - making MPM3515GQV-Z optimal for cost-sensitive, EMI-constrained AEC-Q100 designs needing exactly 1.5A.

Availability

MPM3515GQV-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, industrial PLC I/O modules, and medical imaging sensor nodes requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and rapid time-to-market.

Supply support for MPM3515GQV-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 over two decades of innovation in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MPM35xx series is designed specifically for space-constrained, high-reliability applications demanding integrated power solutions - targeting automotive, industrial, and medical markets where board area, thermal performance, and qualification rigor are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended output capacitance for stable operation?

The MPM3515GQV-Z is optimized for ceramic output capacitors from 10µF to 100µF with X5R/X7R dielectric. Stability is maintained up to 100µF; beyond that, phase margin may degrade due to interaction with internal compensation. For 3.3V/1.5A operation, 47µF is the validated value shown in the typical application circuit.

Does the MPM3515GQV-Z require an external bootstrap diode?

No external bootstrap diode is required. The device integrates a bootstrap capacitor and internal PMOS charging circuit. An external IN4148 diode is optional only when VOUT ≥ 5V and duty cycle exceeds 65%, to improve efficiency - but it is not necessary for standard 3.3V or 2.5V outputs.

How does frequency foldback affect EMI performance during overvoltage conditions?

When VIN exceeds ~21V, the switching frequency folds back from 2.2MHz to 1.1MHz. This lowers the fundamental EMI peak amplitude and shifts it away from sensitive 2.4GHz ISM bands, while maintaining regulation. Foldback also occurs during soft-start and short-circuit events to limit peak current stress.

Can the EN/SYNC pin be used for both enable control and external clock synchronization simultaneously?

No - EN/SYNC operates in one mode at a time. When driven with a DC voltage ≥1.45V, it functions as an enable pin. When an AC clock signal (450kHz–2.2MHz, <350ns pulse width) is applied, it overrides enable function and synchronizes switching. A series resistor (≥55kΩ for 12V VIN) is required to limit current into the internal 6.5V Zener clamp.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of the QFN-17 package under standard JEDEC 4-layer PCB conditions?

The measured θJA for MPM3515GQV-Z in QFN-17 (3mm×5mm×1.6mm) on a 4-layer JEDEC test board is 46°C/W. This value assumes 2oz copper, 1in² thermal pad connected to inner ground plane via ≥6 vias - actual performance improves with additional thermal vias and copper area.

Is the PG (Power Good) signal compatible with 1.8V logic inputs?

Yes - PG is an open-drain output with 4mA sink capability at 0.4V. When pulled up to 1.8V with a 10kΩ resistor, PG asserts at ≤0.4V (logic low) and floats high (≈1.8V) when active - fully compatible with 1.8V GPIO without level-shifting.

How does the internal soft-start time impact system boot timing?

The internal soft-start ramps the reference voltage over 1.7ms (typical), limiting inrush current and preventing output overshoot. This adds predictable, fixed delay to power-on sequencing - critical for coordinating with microcontroller reset timing or FPGA configuration clocks.