Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P 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 6A output current across a 3.3V–45V input range. It features frequency spread spectrum (FSS), configurable 350kHz–1000kHz switching frequency, and 1.7μA shutdown quiescent current-enabling robust operation in automotive infotainment, ADAS, and cluster power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P application, or MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank low-dropout mode, CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance, hiccup over-current protection, and out-of-phase SYNC output for multi-rail synchronization.

Technical Context

The MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P employs current-mode control with adaptive asynchronous modulation (AAM) or forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM) selection via the MODE pin. Its internal gate drivers support bootstrap high-side drive and feature thermal shutdown at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis.

It integrates frequency foldback during start-up to prevent inductor current runaway, supports external clock synchronization (350–1000kHz), and provides symmetric VIN pinout plus MeshConnect™ flip-chip packaging to reduce EMI. The open-drain PG signal asserts when VOUT is within ±5% of nominal, with 35µs deglitch timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable-flank QFN-20 (4mm × 4mm) package optimized for automotive reflow inspection and thermal performance (θJA = 44°C/W on JEDEC 4-layer board).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4316GQ-AEC1-P, the GRE variant adds wettable flanks for solder-joint inspection and MSL1 handling; versus LM61460-Q1, it delivers 3.8× lower shutdown IQ and integrated FSS-reducing BOM count and PCB area in EMI-sensitive automotive power rails.

Availability

MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS, and cluster power systems requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term automotive lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPQ4316AGRE-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 markets.

The MPQ4316A product line targets automotive power conversion with AEC-Q100 qualification, low-IQ operation, and EMI-optimized architecture-designed specifically for infotainment, ADAS, and digital cluster subsystems.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage supported during cold-crank conditions?

The MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P supports input voltages as low as 3.3V with low-dropout mode enabled, maintaining regulated output during automotive cold-crank events where battery voltage can dip below 6V. This is validated across the full -40°C to +150°C junction temperature range per AEC-Q100 Grade 1 requirements.

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

FSS modulates the switching frequency over a ±20kHz range around the nominal value, spreading spectral energy and reducing peak radiated/conducted emissions. This enables CISPR25 Class 5 compliance without additional EMI filter components, verified on the official EVB with standard test setup per ISO 7637-2 and CISPR 25.

Can the MPQ4316AGRE-AEC1-P synchronize to an external clock while operating in AAM mode?

Yes-SYNCIN accepts external clocks from 350kHz to 1000kHz regardless of MODE pin state. In AAM mode, synchronization forces fixed-frequency operation during light loads, eliminating frequency dithering while retaining all other AAM benefits like reduced gate loss.

What is the purpose of the four PGND pins, and how should they be routed?

The four PGND pins provide low-impedance return paths for high di/dt currents from both HS and LS FETs. They must be connected to a solid, low-inductance ground plane with multiple vias-never daisy-chained-to minimize ground bounce and ensure stable current-mode control loop performance.

Does the device support output voltages below 0.815V?

No-the internal feedback reference is fixed at 0.815V ±1.5%. Output voltage is set by the resistor divider ratio on the FB pin; the lowest achievable VOUT is therefore limited by resistor tolerance and noise sensitivity. For sub-0.8V rails, an external reference or different topology is required.

How is thermal performance affected by the MeshConnect™ flip-chip package?

MeshConnect™ places copper pillars directly under the die, reducing thermal resistance from junction to case top to 2.5°C/W (vs. 9°C/W to case bottom). This improves heat transfer to the PCB's thermal pad and enables 6A continuous operation at +125°C ambient on a standard 4-layer board.

What failure modes trigger hiccup over-current protection?

Hiccup OCP activates when valley current exceeds 8–12A (typical) or high-side current exceeds 10–16A (typical), causing immediate shutdown, a 20ms cooldown, then automatic retry. It responds to sustained overloads and hard shorts but ignores brief current spikes from startup or load transients.