Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a high-voltage, AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualified, current-mode synchronous step-down controller supporting 4V–40V input and driving dual N-channel MOSFETs. It delivers precise 0.8V ±1.5% reference regulation, programmable 100–1000kHz switching frequency, and advanced asynchronous mode (AAM) for light-load efficiency optimization in automotive power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection considerations include its wettable-flank QFN-20 package, dual gate drive capability (TG/BG), cycle-by-cycle current limiting with three ILIM configurations (25/50/75mV), and integrated OVP/OCP/thermal shutdown protection for harsh-environment DC/DC designs.

Technical Context

The MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z implements current-mode PWM control with slope-compensated peak-current sensing, using FB voltage comparison against a trimmed 0.8V internal reference to generate COMP error voltage. Its dual N-MOSFET driver supports up to 99.5% maximum duty cycle and features independent TG/BG pull-up (2Ω/3Ω) and pull-down (1Ω/1Ω) resistances with 60ns dead time.

It integrates programmable soft-start via external SS capacitor, selectable CCM/AAM operation through a dedicated pin, and 180° out-of-phase SYNCO output for multi-phase synchronization. Protection includes precision OVP (110–120% VFB), valley/reverse current limit detection, and thermal shutdown at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z is housed in a thermally enhanced QFN-20 (3mm × 4mm) package with exposed pad, optimized for automotive-grade thermal performance and AOI-compatible wettable flank leads.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM5116QPWPRQ1 and TPS544B25RQFT, the MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z uniquely combines AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualification, wettable flank packaging, 4V–40V input support, and selectable AAM/CCM operation-making it optimal for automotive power supplies where efficiency across full load range, manufacturability, and thermal resilience are critical.

Availability

MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, ADAS camera modules, and industrial telematics units requiring stable component supply under AEC-Q100 Grade-1 conditions.

Supply support for MPQ2918GLE-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 over two decades of innovation in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting solutions.

The MPQ2918 product line delivers high-voltage synchronous buck controllers for automotive and industrial applications, designed specifically to meet AEC-Q100 reliability standards while enabling compact, efficient, and thermally robust power architectures.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the CCM/AAM pin, and how does it affect efficiency?

The CCM/AAM pin selects between continuous conduction mode (CCM) and advanced asynchronous mode (AAM). When pulled low (≤480mV), AAM activates, disabling switching at light loads to reduce quiescent current to 250–350μA and eliminate switching losses. In CCM (floating or tied to VCC1), constant-frequency operation ensures predictable EMI and fast transient response. This dual-mode capability optimizes efficiency across the full load range without external circuitry.

How does the MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z handle automotive cold-crank conditions?

It supports 4V minimum input voltage and 99.5% maximum duty cycle, enabling regulation during cold-crank events where battery voltage drops to ~4.5V. The low-dropout operation mode keeps the high-side MOSFET fully on when BST–SW exceeds 3.05V, minimizing conduction loss. Combined with internal UVLO hysteresis (800mV) and robust gate drive strength, it maintains stable output without brownout or restart glitches.

Can the MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z be synchronized to an external clock, and what is the acceptable frequency range?

Yes - the EN/SYNC pin accepts external clock signals from 100kHz to 1000kHz. When driven by an external source, the internal oscillator locks to that frequency with minimal jitter. This feature allows EMI reduction through frequency dithering or precise timing alignment with sensor frame clocks in ADAS systems, eliminating beat frequencies and simplifying EMC filtering.

What are the three current-limit configurations, and how do they impact overcurrent protection?

The ILIM pin offers three fixed current-sense thresholds: 25mV (ILIM = SGND), 50mV (ILIM = VCC1), or 75mV (ILIM = floating). Each corresponds to a different peak inductor current limit, allowing design flexibility for varying power levels and MOSFET R_DS(on). All configurations trigger hiccup-mode OCP upon sustained overload, reducing average short-circuit current and thermal stress while maintaining self-recovery capability.

Is the exposed thermal pad electrically connected, and how should it be handled in PCB layout?

No - the exposed pad is electrically isolated from both SGND and PGND. It must be soldered to a dedicated thermal pad on the PCB connected to both SGND and PGND planes via multiple vias to maximize heat dissipation. This dual-ground connection improves thermal resistance (θ_JA = 48°C/W for QFN-20) and stabilizes signal integrity by providing low-inductance return paths for high-frequency gate drive currents.

Does the MPQ2918GLE-AEC1-Z support output voltages above 5V, and what limits the maximum VOUT?

Yes - the controller supports output voltages up to 25V, limited only by external MOSFET voltage ratings and the FB divider's ability to scale higher voltages accurately. The 0.8V reference and ±1.5% tolerance ensure stable regulation across the full range. However, practical VOUT is constrained by the maximum duty cycle (99.5%), minimum off-time, and bootstrap capacitor recharge requirements - especially critical above 12V outputs.

How does the SYNCO pin function in multi-phase configurations?

SYNCO outputs a 180° out-of-phase clock signal synchronized to the internal oscillator when operating in CCM. This enables seamless interleaving with a second MPQ2918 or compatible controller, halving input/output ripple current and reducing EMI filter size. Unlike simple clock division, SYNCO maintains phase accuracy across temperature and load, supporting robust dual-phase operation without external PLL circuitry.