Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified, synchronous step-down DC/DC converter delivering 3A continuous output at fixed 5V from 3.3V–45V input. It integrates 48mΩ high-side and 20mΩ low-side MOSFETs, supports frequency spread spectrum (FSS) for CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance, and operates down to 1.7μA shutdown current-enabling use in automotive infotainment and ADAS power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5V fixed output accuracy (±2%), low-dropout mode for cold-crank operation, programmable 350–1000kHz switching frequency, and wettable-flank QFN-20 package for automated optical inspection.

Technical Context

The MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z employs current-mode control with fast loop response and includes frequency foldback during startup to prevent inductor current runaway. Its internal architecture supports both Advanced Asynchronous Mode (AAM) and Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM), selectable via the MODE pin, enabling optimization of light-load efficiency versus output ripple.

It features symmetric VIN routing and FSS modulation to suppress conducted/radiated emissions, validated per CISPR25 Class 5 across 150kHz–1GHz. The device also integrates hiccup over-current protection, thermal shutdown at 170°C, and a 100ns minimum on-time for high-duty-cycle operation under automotive cold-crank conditions (e.g., VIN = 4.5V, VOUT = 5V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z is housed in a thermally enhanced, lead-free, wettable-flank QFN-20 (4mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; top view orientation matches standard JEDEC QFN layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4313GRE-33-AEC1-Z, this part delivers 5V instead of 3.3V with identical thermal and EMI performance; compared with MPQ4314GRE-5-AEC1-Z, it offers lower cost and smaller solution size where 3A suffices-reducing PCB area and inductor losses.

Availability

MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and digital instrument clusters requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 traceability and extended temperature support.

Supply support for MPQ4313GRE-5-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 MPQ4313 family is designed specifically for demanding automotive power rails-delivering high efficiency, ultra-low quiescent current, and robust EMI performance in compact wettable-flank packages compliant with AEC-Q100 Grade 1.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the NC (pin 15) connection requirement?

Pin 15 is not internally connected but must be tied to VCC or VOUT (≥3V) to prevent floating, which could induce noise coupling into the analog ground plane. Leaving it unconnected risks erratic behavior in high-noise automotive environments due to capacitive coupling to adjacent high-speed nodes like SW or SYNCIN.

How does the low-dropout mode function during cold-crank conditions?

Low-dropout mode activates automatically when VIN approaches VOUT, reducing switching frequency and modulating duty cycle to maintain regulation down to VIN = 5.5V (for 5V output). This ensures uninterrupted power to downstream circuits during automotive battery dips to 4.5V, avoiding brownout resets in critical ADAS or cluster systems.

Can the MPQ4313GRE-5-AEC1-Z be synchronized to an external clock while using FSS?

No-frequency spread spectrum (FSS) is disabled when an external clock is applied to SYNCIN. The device prioritizes deterministic synchronization over EMI spreading; users must choose between FSS for standalone EMI reduction or external sync for multi-rail timing coherence, as both cannot operate simultaneously.

What is the recommended capacitor value for the SS (soft-start) pin?

A 100nF capacitor from SS to GND yields ~20ms soft-start time (ISS = 6μA). Larger values increase ramp duration linearly-e.g., 220nF gives ~44ms-allowing precise control of inrush current to prevent input voltage sag during power-up of large output capacitor banks.

Why does the PG pin require an external pull-up resistor?

The PG pin is open-drain to enable wired-OR configuration with other power-good signals and flexible voltage-level translation. A 10kΩ pull-up to the monitored rail (e.g., VOUT) ensures clean logic-high assertion when VOUT is within 95–105% of nominal, with 0.3V max drop at 1mA sink current per datasheet spec.

Is thermal derating required for operation at 125°C ambient?

Yes-using θJA = 44°C/W (JEDEC 4-layer board), maximum continuous power dissipation at 125°C ambient is limited to 0.57W. At 3A output and 12V input, efficiency is ~92%, resulting in ~0.8W loss; therefore, heatsinking or airflow is required to maintain TJ ≤150°C in high-ambient deployments.

Does the MODE pin affect efficiency across the full load range?

Yes-AAM (MODE = low) maximizes light-load efficiency (<10mA) by skipping pulses, while FCCM (MODE = high) maintains constant frequency and lower output ripple at medium-to-heavy loads (>500mA). Efficiency crossover occurs near 100–200mA depending on VIN and VOUT; selection should match dominant operating condition.