Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous step-down converter with integrated 70mΩ/50mΩ MOSFETs, 3.3V–36V input range, 42V load dump tolerance, and configurable 350kHz–2.5MHz switching frequency. It delivers up to 1A output current with 1μA shutdown current and operates from –40°C to +150°C junction temperature, targeting automotive infotainment, clusters, and ADAS power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P application, or MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank support (3.1V min VIN), LDO mode, CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance, and wettable flank QFN-12 (3mm×4mm) package for automated optical inspection.

Technical Context

The MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P uses peak current-mode control with frequency foldback during start-up to prevent inductor current runaway. Its dual-VIN pin architecture enables symmetric layout for reduced EMI, while MeshConnect™ flip-chip packaging improves thermal resistance (θJA = 50°C/W) and power density.

It integrates forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM), low-dropout (LDO) mode for cold-crank, and open-drain power good (PG) with ±1.5% hysteresis referenced to 0.8V FB voltage. Protection includes over-current hiccup mode, thermal shutdown at 175°C, and 42V transient tolerance per ISO16750.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable flank QFN-12 (3mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad. The package supports automated optical inspection (AOI) and enhances solder joint reliability in automotive reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4321CGDE-AEC1-P, MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P offers better thermal dissipation (50°C/W vs. 60°C/W) in a moderately larger footprint; versus MPQ4321CGRHE-AEC1-P, it trades 0.5mm in length for simplified pin count and lower assembly cost.

Availability

MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, instrument clusters, ADAS modules, and industrial HMIs requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 assurance and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ4321CGLE-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, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global distribution.

The MPQ4321C product line delivers ultra-compact, AEC-Q100 qualified buck converters optimized for automotive power systems requiring high efficiency, low EMI, and robust transient handling in space- and thermal-constrained environments.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required to start up the MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P?

The device requires a minimum VIN of 3.9V to initiate startup due to its UVLO rising threshold of 3.65V (typical). Once running, it sustains regulation down to 3.1V, enabling operation during automotive cold-crank events without dropout.

Does MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P support fixed-output voltage configurations?

Yes - the MPQ4321C family includes fixed-output variants (e.g., 5V or 3.3V), though MPQ4321CGLE-AEC1-P is the adjustable version. Fixed versions use internal feedback and connect FB directly to VOUT; they achieve ±2.25% output accuracy over temperature and line.

How is the switching frequency set, and what resistor value yields 2.2MHz?

Frequency is set by connecting a resistor between FREQ and AGND. A 15kΩ resistor yields 2.2MHz (typical), with ±10% spread spectrum modulation enabled by default to reduce EMI peaks without external components.

What thermal derating applies above 100°C ambient temperature?

With θJA = 50°C/W and TJ(MAX) = 150°C, maximum allowable power dissipation drops linearly: PD(MAX) = (150 − TA)/50 W. At TA = 100°C, PD(MAX) = 1.0W - corresponding to ~0.75A at 5V output with typical efficiency.

Can the PG pin be left floating if not used?

No - the PG pin must not be left floating. If unused, it should be disconnected (not tied to any net). Pulling it high or low externally will interfere with internal comparator operation and may cause false fault signaling.

Is the wettable flank feature compatible with standard reflow profiles?

Yes - the wettable flank structure is designed for compatibility with J-STD-020D-compliant lead-free reflow profiles (peak 260°C). The flank geometry enables reliable solder fillet formation visible under AOI, meeting automotive zero-defect requirements.

What protection features activate during over-current conditions?

Under over-current, the device enters hiccup mode: it shuts down for ~3ms, then attempts restart. This limits average power dissipation and prevents thermal runaway. Valley current limit (1.5A typ) and peak current limit (2A typ) both contribute to cycle-by-cycle protection.