Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 6-channel, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 automotive-qualified WLED driver with peak-current-mode boost architecture, 150mA/channel max output, 15000:1 PWM dimming ratio at ≤200Hz, and I²C interface. It regulates LED string current via external ISET resistor with 2.5% inter-channel matching and integrates a 100mΩ/50V internal MOSFET for high-efficiency backlighting of medium-size automotive LCD displays.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q100 qualification, phase-shifted 6-channel PWM dimming, configurable OVP/STH thresholds, thermal foldback behavior, and QFN-24 (4mm×4mm) wettable flank package for automated optical inspection.

Technical Context

The MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z implements a constant-frequency peak-current-mode boost controller with six independent cathode-connected current sinks, each regulated to match the ISET-set reference with ±2.5% matching across temperature and line. Its internal 5V LDO powers gate drive and logic, and it supports three dimming modes-direct PWM, analog, and mix-with transfer points selectable via MIX/AD pin voltage or I²C register.

Switching frequency is configurable via resistor (495–2.42MHz), I²C, or external SYNC clock; frequency spread spectrum reduces EMI peaks. Protection includes cycle-by-cycle current limit, LED short/open detection with programmable STH threshold, OVP with 200mV hysteresis, OTP at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis, and fault flag (FF) assertion with open-drain output.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z is housed in a wettable flank QFN-24 (4mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad connected to AGND, supporting automated optical inspection and enhanced thermal dissipation (θ_JA = 42°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar WLED driver applications.

Compared with MPQ3367AGR-AEC1-Z, the wettable flank version enables reliable AOI in high-volume automotive assembly; versus MPQ3369AGRE-AEC1-Z, it delivers lower BOM cost and simpler layout for 6-string designs without sacrificing AEC-Q100 reliability or dimming performance.

Availability

MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, center stack infotainment displays, digital rearview mirrors, and head-up display backlighting requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ3367AGRE-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 power management ICs, with core expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and motor drivers for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MPQ3367A product line targets AEC-Q100-compliant automotive display backlighting, emphasizing ultra-low EMI, deep dimming, thermal resilience, and functional safety-ready features for next-generation digital cockpits.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the STH pin, and how is its threshold configured?

The STH (Short LED Threshold) pin is a 18μA current-source output used to set the voltage threshold for detecting shorted LED strings. A resistor connected from STH to GND determines the trip point - for example, a 278kΩ resistor yields ~5V, matching the internal TH_S=01 setting. Floating STH defaults to internal threshold selection via TH_S1:0 bits.

How does the phase shift function improve PWM dimming performance?

The phase shift function staggers the turn-on timing of LED channels (e.g., 60° between channels for 6-string operation), reducing peak input current and eliminating audible coil whine caused by simultaneous current surges. It also lowers RMS ripple on input capacitors and improves EMI profile without requiring external timing components.

Can MPQ3367AGRE-AEC1-Z drive fewer than six LED strings, and how is channel disable handled?

Yes - unused LEDx pins (e.g., LED6 for 5-string operation) must be tied to GND to trigger automatic channel disable during startup. Alternatively, the CH2:0 register bits can selectively disable channels 2–6 via I²C, allowing dynamic reconfiguration without hardware changes.

What dimming modes are supported, and how is the mode selected?

The device supports direct PWM, analog, and mix dimming. Mode selection occurs either by biasing the MIX/AD pin to specific voltage ranges (<0.3V / 0.5–0.8V / 1.0–1.3V) or by writing MODE1:0 bits (00/01/10) via I²C. Mix dimming uses 25% or 12.5% transfer points to combine analog and PWM benefits.

Is the internal MOSFET rated for 50V, and what is its on-resistance?

Yes - the integrated low-side N-channel MOSFET has a 50V drain-source breakdown rating and a typical on-resistance of 100mΩ at VIN = 12V and TJ = 25°C. This enables efficient boost conversion across the full 3.5–36V input range while minimizing conduction losses.

How does the device respond to over-temperature conditions?

At junction temperatures exceeding 170°C, the device activates thermal shutdown with 20°C hysteresis. Additionally, it implements gradual LED current reduction above ~125°C (via internal thermal foldback), preserving display visibility while preventing permanent damage during sustained high-temperature operation.

What protection features are included, and how are faults signaled?

Protections include over-current (cycle-by-cycle and latch-off), over-voltage (OVP with 200mV hysteresis), over-temperature (OTP), LED short/open, and inductor short. All faults assert the open-drain FF pin low and can trigger SD pin to disable external PMOS, providing system-level fault containment.