Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ3369GF-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ3369GF-AEC1 from Monolithic Power Systems is a 6-channel, AEC-Q100 qualified boost white LED driver with I²C interface, designed for automotive and industrial LCD backlighting. It delivers up to 100mA per channel, achieves 15,000:1 PWM dimming ratio at ≤200Hz, and integrates a 100mΩ/50V internal MOSFET with peak-current-mode control for stable current regulation across strings (±2.5% matching). Its phase-shift PWM dimming reduces audible noise in automotive displays.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ3369GF-AEC1 datasheet, MPQ3369GF-AEC1 pinout, MPQ3369GF-AEC1 application, or MPQ3369GF-AEC1 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q100 qualification, 3.5–36V input range, TSSOP28-EP package thermal performance (θJA = 32°C/W), and support for analog/PWM/mix dimming modes with programmable thresholds via I²C or pins.

Technical Context

The MPQ3369GF-AEC1 implements peak-current-mode PWM control with cycle-by-cycle current limiting and an internal 5V LDO (VCC) for gate drive and logic. Its six independent cathode-connected current sinks regulate LED string current using an external ISET resistor and maintain ±2.5% inter-string matching over temperature.

Dimming is managed through three configurable modes: direct PWM (fixed amplitude, duty-tracked), analog (amplitude-scaled by PWM duty), and mix dimming (25% or 12.5% transfer point). Phase shift-programmable via SCL/SDA tie or PSE register-distributes channel switching (e.g., 60° per channel for 6 strings) to suppress EMI and eliminate coil whine.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ3369GF-AEC1 is housed in a thermally enhanced TSSOP28-EP package (9.7mm × 6.4mm × 1.2mm) with exposed pad tied to AGND for improved heat dissipation (θJA = 32°C/W, θJC = 6°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ3369GF-AEC1, the GR variant trades thermal capability for compactness, while the LM3409QMYX sacrifices integration and automotive qualification for design flexibility and cost - making the GF version optimal for AEC-Q100-compliant, high-channel-count, low-noise backlight systems.

Availability

MPQ3369GF-AEC1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, center-stack infotainment displays, commercial vehicle HUDs, and industrial HMI panels requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 reliability, and high-dynamic-range dimming.

Supply support for MPQ3369GF-AEC1 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 conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MPQ3369-AEC1 product line targets automotive-grade LCD backlighting, delivering high-efficiency, low-noise, and functionally safe LED current regulation for next-generation digital cockpits and ADAS displays.

FAQ

What dimming modes does MPQ3369GF-AEC1 support, and how are they selected?

The MPQ3369GF-AEC1 supports analog, PWM, and mix dimming. Selection is done either via the MIX/AD pin voltage (0.3V for mix, 0.5–0.8V for PWM, 1.0–1.3V for analog) or through I²C register writes (MODE1:0 bits). Mix dimming uses a 25% or 12.5% transfer point to combine analog smoothness at high brightness with PWM precision at low levels.

How does the phase-shift function reduce audible noise in automotive applications?

The phase-shift function staggers the PWM on-times of LED channels by fixed angles (e.g., 60° for six strings), distributing inrush current over time. This prevents simultaneous coil excitation that causes mechanical vibration and audible "whine" - critical for quiet cabin environments and meeting automotive NVH requirements.

Can MPQ3369GF-AEC1 drive fewer than six LED strings, and how is channel disable handled?

Yes - unused LEDx pins (e.g., LED6 for five-string use) can be grounded for automatic detection during startup, or disabled via the CH2:0 register bits (001 = LED1–5 active). The device dynamically adjusts feedback to regulate only active strings, maintaining optimal V_OUT headroom and efficiency.

What protections are built into MPQ3369GF-AEC1, and how are faults reported?

Protections include over-voltage (OVP), over-temperature (OTP), over-current (OCP), LED short/open, inductor short, and input UVLO. All faults assert the open-drain FF pin low and latch until cleared via EN toggle or I²C command. OVP and short thresholds are resistor-programmable via OVP and STH pins for system-specific tuning.

Is the internal MOSFET rated for automotive transients, and what is its R_DS(on)?

Yes - the integrated 50V/100mΩ N-channel MOSFET is qualified for automotive load-dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and cold-crank conditions. Its low on-resistance minimizes conduction loss, enabling >90% efficiency at 12V input and 36V output with 100mA per string, even at 125°C junction temperature.

How is the 15,000:1 PWM dimming ratio achieved, and what limits it?

The 15,000:1 ratio is achieved at f_PWM ≤ 200Hz by combining precise current regulation (±2.5% matching), sub-microsecond PWM pulse handling, and deep-dimming circuitry that regulates output to 93% of OVP threshold when on-time falls below 7μs. It is limited by minimum controllable on-time and noise immunity - higher f_PWM reduces usable ratio due to timing resolution constraints.