Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified, synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 48mΩ high-side and 20mΩ low-side MOSFETs, delivering up to 3A continuous output current across a 3.3V–45V input range. It features frequency spread spectrum (FSS), programmable 350–1000kHz switching, 1.7μA shutdown IQ, and power-good monitoring - designed for automotive infotainment and ADAS power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank low-dropout mode, hiccup over-current protection, wettable flank QFN-20 package compliance, and CISPR25 Class 5 EMI performance in automotive environments.

Technical Context

The MPQ4313 employs current-mode control with fast loop response and supports both Advanced Asynchronous Mode (AAM) and Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM) via the MODE pin. Its internal architecture integrates bootstrap gate drive, thermal shutdown at 170°C, and frequency foldback during start-up to prevent inductor current runaway.

It implements symmetric VIN routing and FSS modulation to reduce peak EMI emissions, while the open-drain PG output monitors VOUT within ±5% of nominal voltage. The device operates across –40°C to +150°C junction temperature and supports external synchronization (350–1000kHz) with 180° out-of-phase SYNCO output.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MPQ4313GRE-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-side marking includes "MP4313" prefix, year/week code, lot number, and "E" for wettable flank.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck converter applications.

Compared with MPQ4312GRE-AEC1-Z, the MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z provides 50% higher output current and lower R_DS(on) for reduced conduction loss at 3A; versus LM61480QRNXTQ1, it offers certified EMI performance and simpler analog configuration at lower system-level integration cost.

Availability

MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and digital instrument clusters requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification and long-term automotive lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPQ4313GRE-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MPQ4313 belongs to MPS's automotive-grade MPQ43xx family of high-voltage synchronous buck converters, engineered specifically for demanding 12V/24V/48V automotive subsystems where efficiency, EMI, and functional safety compliance are critical.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the NC pin (Pin 15) on the MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z?

Pin 15 is not internally connected but must be tied to VCC or VOUT (≥3V) to prevent floating, which could cause latch-up or erratic behavior. Leaving it unconnected violates the absolute maximum ratings and risks permanent damage during ESD events or power sequencing.

Does the MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z support output voltages below 3.3V?

Yes - the adjustable version (standard MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z) uses the FB pin with an external resistor divider to set VOUT from 0.815V up to 0.95×VIN. Fixed 3.3V and 5V variants exist (MPQ4313GRE-33/5-AEC1-Z), but the base part supports custom outputs like 1.8V or 2.5V with appropriate feedback network design.

How does the frequency spread spectrum (FSS) function impact EMI testing?

FSS modulates the switching frequency by ±6% around the programmed center frequency, spreading energy across a wider bandwidth and reducing peak amplitudes in both conducted and radiated EMI spectra. This enables pass/fail compliance with CISPR25 Class 5 limits without adding external EMI filters in most reference designs.

Can the MPQ4313GRE-AEC1-Z operate with a 2.5V input supply?

No - the absolute minimum input voltage is 3.3V (per datasheet Recommended Operating Conditions), and the UVLO rising threshold is 3.0V. Attempting operation below 3.3V will result in undervoltage lockout and no regulation; it is not rated for start-stop or ultra-low battery scenarios below this threshold.

What is the thermal performance difference between the standard QFN-20 and wettable flank variant?

The wettable flank variant (denoted by "E" in top marking) has identical thermal resistance (θ_JA = 44°C/W on JEDEC board) but improves solder joint reliability and enables automated optical inspection of side-wall fillets - critical for zero-defect automotive manufacturing. Thermal performance is unchanged; reliability assurance is enhanced.

Is the PG output compatible with 1.8V logic systems?

No - the PG pin is open-drain with a 0.3V max low-level voltage at 1mA sink, but its pull-up must be connected to a supply ≥3V (typically VOUT or VCC) to ensure proper high-level assertion. Direct interfacing to 1.8V logic requires an external level-shifter or voltage translator.

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

In low-dropout mode, the high-side MOSFET operates in linear regulation when VIN drops near VOUT, maintaining output regulation down to VIN ≈ VOUT + 0.5V. For a 5V output, this sustains operation down to ~5.5V - matching typical automotive cold-crank minimums without requiring a separate LDO post-regulator.