Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 qualified 6-channel boost WLED driver with peak-current-mode PWM control, integrated 100mΩ/50V MOSFET, and I²C interface. It delivers up to 150mA per channel for LCD backlighting in automotive displays and tablets, featuring 15000:1 PWM dimming ratio at ≤200Hz, 2.5% inter-channel current matching, and phase-shifted PWM dimming to suppress audible noise.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its QFN-24 (4mm×4mm) wettable flank package, programmable switching frequency (495kHz–2.2MHz), mixed/analog/PWM dimming modes, OVP/OTP/LED short-open protection, and automotive-grade thermal shutdown at 170°C.

Technical Context

The MPQ3367 employs peak-current-mode control with a stabilizing ramp to prevent subharmonic oscillation above 50% duty cycle, using the lowest active LEDX pin voltage as feedback to dynamically regulate VOUT. Its internal 5V LDO (VCC) powers gate drive and logic, enabling operation down to 3.5V input while maintaining stable regulation across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature.

Dimming is implemented via three configurable modes: direct PWM (fixed amplitude, variable duty), analog (DAC-based amplitude scaling), and mix dimming (25% or 12.5% transfer point). Phase shift-60° for 6 channels, 90° for 4-is synchronized to the PWM signal to reduce inrush current and EMI, while frequency spread spectrum further enhances EMI performance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z is housed in a wettable flank QFN-24 package (4mm × 4mm, 0.5mm pitch), optimized for automated optical inspection (AOI) and solder joint reliability in automotive applications. Exposed thermal pad is connected to AGND.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 6-channel WLED driver applications.

Compared with AL8867Q-7 and TPS61196RGER, MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, wettable flank QFN packaging, 15000:1 dim ratio, and hardware-enforced phase shift-making it the only option meeting full automotive display EMI, safety, and manufacturability requirements in a single device.

Availability

MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, center stack infotainment displays, industrial HMIs, and commercial vehicle HUDs requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ3367GRE-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 core expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MPQ3367 belongs to MPS's automotive-grade WLED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-reliability LCD backlighting in vehicles-emphasizing AEC-Q100 compliance, low EMI, thermal robustness, and multi-mode dimming flexibility.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the MIX/AD pin, and how does it affect dimming behavior?

The MIX/AD pin is a 18μA current source that sets the dimming mode based on its voltage: ≤0.3V enables mix dimming (25% or 12.5% transfer point), 0.5–0.8V selects direct PWM dimming, and 1.0–1.3V activates analog dimming. When floated, the mode is controlled via I²C register MODE1:0. This dual-control architecture allows hardware or software selection without redesigning the PCB layout.

How does the phase-shift function improve system-level performance?

The phase-shift function staggers the PWM timing across enabled LED channels-60° for six strings, 90° for four-reducing peak input current by up to 40% and eliminating audible coil whine during dimming. It also lowers RMS ripple on input capacitors and eases EMI filter design, directly improving power integrity in noise-sensitive automotive domains.

Can MPQ3367GRE-AEC1-Z drive fewer than six LED strings, and how is channel disable configured?

Yes. Unused LED channels are disabled either by connecting their LEDx pin to GND through a ≤470pF capacitor (enabling automatic detection at startup) or via I²C register CH2:0 (e.g., CH2:0 = 001 disables LED6 only). Both methods remove inactive channels from the feedback loop, ensuring accurate VOUT regulation and avoiding false OVP trips.

What protection features are integrated, and how are fault conditions reported?

Integrated protections include over-voltage (OVP), over-temperature (OTP), over-current (OCP), LED short/open, and inductor short detection. All faults pull the open-drain FF pin low and latch until EN is cycled or I²C reset command issued. OVP and LED short thresholds are resistor-programmable via OVP and STH pins for application-specific trip points.

Is the internal 5V LDO (VCC) sufficient to power external circuitry, and what are its limitations?

VCC delivers up to 10mA at 5V (±5%) for internal gate drive and logic, but is not intended for external loads. It shuts down when VIN drops below 3.1V (UVLO) and resumes only after 100mV hysteresis. External 5V supplies must be used for peripherals; VCC should only power the MPQ3367's internal blocks and decoupled with ≥1μF ceramic capacitor placed adjacent to Pin 22.

How does the frequency spread spectrum (FSS) feature aid EMC compliance?

FSS modulates the switching frequency around a center value (set by FREQ/SYNC) using the FSP pin's 18μA current source and external resistor. This spreads EMI energy across a bandwidth rather than concentrating it at harmonics, reducing peak radiated emissions by up to 10dB-critical for passing CISPR-25 Class 5 in automotive infotainment systems.