Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified, synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 70mΩ high-side and 50mΩ low-side MOSFETs, delivering 3A continuous output current across a 3.3V–36V input range and surviving 42V automotive load dump transients. It operates from –40°C to +150°C junction temperature and supports configurable switching frequency (350kHz–2.5MHz) for EMI optimization in automotive infotainment and ADAS power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P application, or MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include 42V load dump tolerance, cold-crank operation down to 3.1V VIN, 1μA shutdown quiescent current, CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance, and QFN-14 (2.5mm×3.5mm) wettable flank package for automated optical inspection.

Technical Context

The MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P uses peak current mode control with frequency foldback during start-up to prevent inductor current runaway. Its integrated power stage features asymmetric gate drive timing (65ns min on-time, 50ns min off-time) and supports forced CCM, low-dropout mode, and hiccup over-current protection.

Thermal management is enhanced by MeshConnect™ flip-chip packaging and symmetric VIN pinout for reduced loop inductance. The device implements open-drain power good monitoring with ±5.5% window (94.5%–105.5% V_OUT) and includes internal thermal shutdown at 160°C–185°C with 20°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P is housed in a QFN-14 (2.5mm × 3.5mm) wettable flank package with exposed thermal pad, optimized for automotive thermal and reliability requirements.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4323CGDE-AEC1 and MPQ4323CGLE-AEC1, the MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P offers optimal balance of compact size (2.5mm×3.5mm), thermal resistance (48.6°C/W), and manufacturability (wettable flanks), making it ideal for mid-density automotive modules requiring both space efficiency and robust thermal management.

Availability

MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and digital instrument clusters requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term automotive lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPQ4323CGRHE-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 manufacturing partnerships.

The MPQ4323C product line delivers automotive-grade synchronous buck converters optimized for harsh environments - engineered for 42V load dump survival, cold-crank operation, and CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance in safety-critical vehicle subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for continuous operation?

The MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P supports continuous operation up to 36V input. It withstands 42V transients per ISO16750-2 Pulse 5a for automotive load dump, but sustained voltage above 36V risks permanent damage. Absolute maximum rating is 42V only for transient conditions, not steady-state use.

Does this part support fixed-output voltage configurations?

Yes - the MPQ4323C family includes fixed-output variants (e.g., MPQ4323C-33-AEC1 for 3.3V). The MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P is the adjustable version; its FB pin accepts external resistor dividers to set V_OUT from 0.8V to 0.95×V_IN. Fixed versions integrate the feedback network internally.

How is frequency spread spectrum (FSS) enabled or configured?

FSS is enabled automatically when the FREQ pin is left floating or connected to AGND. No external components are required. FSS modulates switching frequency by ±10% at 15kHz to reduce peak EMI amplitudes - verified to meet CISPR25 Class 5 limits in standard evaluation boards.

What is the purpose of the NC pin (Pin 14) on the QFN-14 package?

Pin 14 is a true no-connect terminal - not bonded internally and electrically isolated. It may be tied to PGND for mechanical reinforcement or solder fillet formation, but it serves no functional role in biasing, regulation, or protection circuits.

Can the MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P operate in forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM)?

Yes - FCCM is enabled by pulling the MODE pin (not present on this variant) high. However, the MPQ4323CGRHE-AEC1-P does not expose a MODE pin; FCCM is implemented internally and active by default. The device remains in CCM across all load conditions, eliminating audible switching noise and improving light-load regulation.

What thermal derating applies above 25°C ambient?

Derating follows θ_JA = 48.6°C/W (JESD51-7, 4-layer board). At 85°C ambient, max continuous power dissipation drops to (150°C − 85°C) / 48.6°C/W ≈ 1.34W. For 3A output at 5V (15W), effective thermal design must reduce θ_JA via copper area, vias, and heatsinking to maintain T_J ≤ 150°C.

Is the PG signal compatible with 1.8V logic systems?

Yes - the open-drain PG output can be pulled up to any voltage ≤ 5.5V. To interface with 1.8V logic, connect the pull-up resistor to a 1.8V rail. PG sinks ≤0.3V at 1mA, ensuring valid low-level recognition by 1.8V I/O buffers without level-shifting circuitry.