Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified, fully integrated synchronous step-down power module with internal MOSFETs and inductor, delivering up to 1A continuous output current at 2.4MHz switching frequency across 2.5V–5.5V input range. It features constant-on-time (COT) control, 1% FB accuracy, and power-good (PG) signaling-designed for automotive camera modules and ADAS sensors requiring compact, thermally robust DC/DC conversion.

For engineers reviewing the MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P pinout, MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P application, or MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its wettable-flank QFN-15 package, FCCM operation across full load, -40°C to +150°C junction temperature rating, integrated 376–564nH inductor, and adjustable-output configuration with external resistor divider feedback.

Technical Context

The MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P implements a constant-on-time (COT) control architecture with VIN feed-forward, enabling stable 2.4MHz switching across 2.5V–5.5V input and 0.6V–VIN−0.5V output ranges. Its FCCM mode ensures fixed-frequency operation under all load conditions, eliminating subharmonic oscillation and simplifying EMI filtering.

Internal protection includes cycle-by-cycle peak current limiting (2.5A typical), valley current limiting (1A typical), thermal shutdown at 170°C, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and output over-voltage protection triggered at 115% of V_FB. The PG signal asserts high when V_FB ≥ 90% of 0.6V reference and deasserts at ≤85%, with 80µs deglitch timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P is housed in a 15-pin QFN package (3mm × 4mm × 1.6mm) with wettable flank leads for enhanced solder joint inspection. Thermal pad on underside requires solid GND connection via multiple vias.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P, the fixed-output MPM3806CGLE-12-AEC1-P saves two resistors and simplifies layout while retaining identical thermal, EMC, and qualification specs; TPS62840DGRR offers lower IQ but demands external magnetics and lacks AEC-Q100 validation, making it unsuitable for automotive deployment.

Availability

MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive camera modules, ADAS sensor subsystems, and infotainment domain controllers requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPM3806CGLE-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 power management ICs and modules, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan.

The MPM3806C product line delivers fully integrated, AEC-Q100-qualified DC/DC modules targeting space-constrained automotive subsystems such as vision processing, radar, and V2X communications - emphasizing thermal robustness, EMC resilience, and zero-defect manufacturability.

FAQ

What is the function of the OUT_S pin on MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P?

The OUT_S pin serves dual functions: it acts as the output voltage sense node for regulation feedback and provides a controlled 150Ω discharge path to GND during shutdown. This discharges the output capacitor to prevent residual voltage hold-up in safety-critical automotive systems. An external capacitor between OUT_S and VOUT can block this path if hold-up is required.

Can MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P operate with a 2.5V input and deliver 1A at 1.2V output?

Yes. The device supports 2.5V–5.5V input and delivers full 1A continuous output down to 0.6V. At VIN = 2.5V and VOUT = 1.2V, efficiency remains >85% (per Figure 11), and thermal rise stays below 1.0°C at 1A with proper PCB copper area - validated across the full -40°C to +150°C junction temperature range.

How does the power-good (PG) signal behave during startup and fault conditions?

PG is an open-drain output pulled low during startup until VFB reaches 90% of 0.6V (540mV), then pulled high by an external resistor. If VFB drops to ≤85% (510mV) due to overload or input collapse, PG is actively pulled low within 80µs. During thermal shutdown or OVP, PG deasserts immediately, enabling system-level fault detection and safe state entry.

Is external compensation required for MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P?

No. The device integrates a complete Type-II compensation network internally, eliminating external resistors and capacitors. This reduces design risk, PCB area, and validation time - confirmed by stable phase margin (>45°) and fast transient response (<50µs) across all operating conditions in the datasheet's typical performance curves.

What is the significance of the "E" suffix in MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P?

The "E" denotes wettable flank construction - a package feature where vertical sidewalls of all 15 perimeter leads are plated to enable automated optical inspection (AOI) of solder fillets. This is mandatory for zero-defect automotive manufacturing and distinguishes it from standard QFN variants that lack AOI-compatible lead geometry.

Does MPM3806CGLE-AEC1-P support pre-biased start-up?

Yes. When EN rises above 0.9V, the device initiates soft-start regardless of existing voltage on VOUT. This allows safe power sequencing in systems where downstream rails may retain charge. Pre-biased operation remains functional even when the OUT_S discharge path is blocked by an external capacitor.

How is short-circuit protection implemented?

SCP uses hiccup mode: upon sustained short, VFB drops below 50% of VREF, triggering shutdown. The SS capacitor discharges fully, then a new soft-start cycle begins. This limits average power dissipation to <100mW during fault, preventing thermal damage while allowing automatic recovery once the fault clears - verified per AEC-Q100 stress testing.