Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 36V, 5A AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous step-down converter with fixed 3.3V output, integrated 60mΩ HS-FET and 35mΩ LS-FET, ultra-low 1µA shutdown current, and configurable 350kHz–2.5MHz switching frequency. It delivers high efficiency across load ranges in automotive power rails for clusters, infotainment, and ADAS systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection factors include its 42V load dump survival, -40°C to +150°C junction temperature range, wettable flank QFN-17 package, and multi-phase capability for scalable power delivery.

Technical Context

The MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z implements zero-delay PWM (ZDP) control for fast transient response and supports both forced continuous conduction mode (FCCM) and advanced asynchronous modulation (AAM) for light-load efficiency. Its internal gate drivers enable operation down to 3.3V input, with low-dropout (LDO) mode sustaining regulation during cold-crank events.

It features synchronized clock output (SYNCO), external clock synchronization (SYNCIN/MODE), and current-sharing (ICS) functionality for parallel phase stacking. The device integrates hiccup over-current protection, thermal shutdown at 150°C, and open-drain power-good (PG/PHASE) monitoring with ±3% trip thresholds relative to nominal VOUT.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z is housed in a wettable flank QFN-17 (3mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin numbering follows top-view orientation per MPS datasheet Rev. 1.0.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4341JGLE-33-AEC1-Z, the subject part offers identical performance in a smaller QFN-17 footprint ideal for space-constrained modules; versus TPS54560QDGQRQ1, it delivers superior EMI robustness, automotive-grade thermal margin, and plug-and-play multi-phase scalability without external circuitry.

Availability

MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, ADAS camera modules, infotainment head units, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 Grade 1 assurance and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ4341GLE-33-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 MPQ4341 series belongs to MPS's automotive-qualified DC/DC converter product line, engineered specifically for demanding 12V/24V vehicle architectures requiring high efficiency, ultra-low quiescent current, and robust transient handling.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage transient the MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z can withstand?

The device is rated for 42V load dump per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a, with absolute maximum VIN = +42V. Its internal over-voltage protection triggers at 38V (typical), clamping operation before damage occurs. This rating is validated per AEC-Q100 stress testing protocols and applies across the full -40°C to +150°C junction temperature range.

Does the MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z support external frequency synchronization?

Yes - the SYNCIN/MODE pin accepts external clock signals from 90% to 115% of the free-running frequency set by the FREQ resistor. When driven by an external source, the internal oscillator locks to that signal, enabling deterministic phase alignment across multiple converters in multi-phase or distributed power systems.

How is power-good (PG) functionality implemented on this device?

PG/PHASE is an open-drain output asserting high when VOUT is within 94%–106% of 3.3V (i.e., 3.10V–3.49V). It features 50µs deglitching on both rising and falling edges to reject noise-induced false trips. In multi-phase configurations, the same pin serves as a phase-shift resistor input when SYNCO is grounded.

What thermal derating guidance applies for continuous 5A operation?

At TA = +85°C with standard 4-layer JEDEC PCB (2 oz copper), the QFN-17 package sustains 5A continuously with ≤25°C case rise. Derating begins above +85°C ambient: output current must be reduced by ~125mA/°C beyond that point to maintain TJ ≤ 150°C, based on θJA = 44.7°C/W and RDS(ON) thermal coefficient data.

Can the MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z operate in dropout mode below 3.3V input?

Yes - LDO mode activates when VIN drops near VOUT, sustaining regulated 3.3V output down to VIN = 3.4V (measured at 5A load). Below that, the device enters dropout with decreasing VOUT; minimum functional VIN is 3.3V per datasheet, with UVLO release at 2.8V rising threshold ensuring clean restart after deep discharge.

Is the wettable flank feature mandatory for automotive assembly?

While not electrically required, wettable flanks are mandated by most Tier 1 automotive OEMs for AOI compatibility and solder joint reliability verification. The MPQ4341GLE-33-AEC1-Z's wettable flank QFN-17 meets IPC-A-610 Class 3 and J-STD-001 requirements for high-reliability automotive production.

What is the recommended layout practice for the BST capacitor?

A 0.1µF X7R ceramic capacitor must be placed directly between BST and SW pins with minimal trace length (<2mm) and no vias. This ensures low-impedance bootstrap recharge during each switching cycle, preventing HS-FET gate underdrive and maintaining RDS(ON) stability at high duty cycles.