Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified step-down DC/DC converter with integrated USB charging port supporting QC3.0 and USB Type-C 5V@3A DFP mode. It delivers 3A continuous output current across 4.2V–36V input, features independent EN1-controlled USB switch, NTC-based thermal monitoring, and integrated 20mΩ MOSFETs. Used in automotive infotainment head units for dual-mode (QC3.0 + Type-C) front-panel charging.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P application, or MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection considerations include its AEC-Q100 qualification, dual-protocol USB support (QC3.0 + Type-C), 420kHz/2.2MHz selectable switching frequency, ±8kV CC1/CC2 ESD rating, and load-shedding at 145°C junction temperature.

Technical Context

The device integrates a synchronous buck controller with internal high-side (50–90mΩ) and low-side (30–60mΩ) MOSFETs, plus a dedicated USB current-limit switch with 20–40mΩ R_DS(ON). Its feedback loop uses a precision 792mV reference with line-drop compensation active only in 5V mode.

USB protocol handling includes hardware-based BC1.2 DCP detection (DP/DM short), Apple 3A divider mode (2.7V DP / 3.4V DM), 1.2V/1.2V mode, and QC3.0 voltage negotiation via DP/DM voltage thresholds (0.3V low / 2.0V high). Type-C functionality relies on CC1/CC2 sensing with 97.6kΩ pull-up resistor and VCONN power delivery up to 1W.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable-flank QFN-22 (4mm × 4mm) package optimized for automated optical inspection (AOI) and high-reliability solder joint formation in automotive PCB assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar USB charging port applications.

Compared with NCP81239MNTXG and TPS65987D, MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, integrated buck conversion, and dual QC3.0 + Type-C DFP support in one QFN package - eliminating external protocol ICs and simplifying thermal design for 3A automotive USB ports.

Availability

MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment head units, ADAS display subsystems, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 Grade 1 compliance and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ4228GRE-Q-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 for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications, with over 20 years of analog design expertise.

The MPQ4228-Q product line targets automotive USB charging infrastructure, integrating buck regulation, USB protocol handling, and thermal safety into a single AEC-Q100-qualified device to reduce system complexity and improve field reliability.

FAQ

What USB protocols does MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P natively support without external firmware?

It supports QC3.0 (via DP/DM voltage thresholds), USB BC1.2 DCP (short mode), Apple 3A divider mode (2.7V DP / 3.4V DM), 1.2V/1.2V mode, and USB Type-C 5V@3A DFP (using CC1/CC2 sensing and VCONN power). All protocol detection and state machines are implemented in hardware.

How does the NTC temperature monitoring function interact with USB output current?

When the NTC pin voltage reaches 0.5V (corresponding to ~145°C junction), the IC reduces USB output current capability from 3A to 1.5A. At 0.7V (~165°C), it disables USB_OUT entirely and pulls FLT low. The NTC circuit uses a resistor divider with configurable thresholds.

Can MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P operate with input voltages below 4.2V, such as during cold-crank conditions?

No - the absolute minimum operating input is 4.2V, and UVLO rising threshold is 3.7V. Below this, the device remains disabled. For sub-4.2V cold-crank support, an external pre-regulator or hold-up capacitor is required to maintain VIN above 4.2V during cranking transients.

What is the purpose of the OUT pin, and how should it be configured for optimal efficiency?

The OUT pin connects the buck converter's internal switch node to the output rail. When tied directly to VOUT, it bypasses internal power dissipation in the LDO path, improving efficiency by ~3% at 3A. A 10Ω + 220nF RC filter must be added to suppress switching noise on the output.

Does MPQ4228GRE-Q-AEC1-P require external components for USB Type-C CC detection?

Yes - a 97.6kΩ pull-up resistor on CC1 is required for Type-C source detection, and a 2.2nF capacitor must be placed on CC1 to meet USB-IF EMI requirements. These are specified in the datasheet's "Typical Application" schematic and are mandatory for certification.

How does the device handle USB overvoltage protection on the USB_IN pin?

USB_IN is monitored for overvoltage with a 5.82V threshold. Upon detection, the USB switch shuts off within 300ms, discharges the output via a 200Ω internal resistor, and asserts FLT low. Recovery occurs automatically once USB_IN falls below 5.52V for 10ms.

Is the 2.2MHz switching frequency usable with standard 4.7µH inductors, or does it require smaller values?

At 2.2MHz, the recommended inductor value is 1.0µH (not 4.7µH). Using 4.7µH at 2.2MHz causes excessive peak current and reduced efficiency. The datasheet specifies 1.0µH ±20% with ≤25mΩ DCR for 2.2MHz operation to maintain stability and thermal performance.