Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous step-down converter with fixed 3.3V output, 3.3V–36V input range, 5A continuous output current, 1μA shutdown current, and QFN-17 (3mm×4mm) wettable flank package. It delivers ultra-low quiescent current operation in automotive clusters and ADAS power rails where cold-crank (3.1V) and 42V load-dump tolerance are required.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its AAM/FCCM mode control, 20ns minimum on-time, integrated 60mΩ/35mΩ MOSFETs, PG signal accuracy (±6%), and configurable 350kHz–2.5MHz switching frequency for EMI optimization.

Technical Context

This buck converter implements zero-delay PWM control with internal high-side and low-side MOSFETs, enabling fast transient response and stable regulation across wide VIN and load ranges. Its dual-mode operation-Advanced Asynchronous Modulation (AAM) at light loads and Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM) under heavy loads-is selected via the SYNCIN/MODE pin and directly impacts efficiency and noise profile.

The device integrates critical automotive protections: 42V input tolerance, thermal shutdown (150°C), over-current protection with hiccup mode, and a dedicated LDO/cold-crank mode that maintains regulation down to 3.1V input. The open-drain PG signal monitors VOUT within ±6% of nominal 3.3V and supports system-level fault reporting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z uses a QFN-17 (3mm × 4mm) wettable flank package with exposed thermal pad. Pin numbering follows top-view orientation as defined in MPS documentation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4348JGLE-33-AEC1-Z, the QFN-17 variant offers identical performance in a smaller footprint but fewer routing options; versus LM61480QRNXTQ1, it delivers 5× lower quiescent current and superior cold-crank regulation at the cost of 3A lower max output current.

Availability

MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive cluster displays, ADAS camera modules, infotainment head units, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ4348GLE-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 for automotive, industrial, cloud computing, and consumer markets.

The MPQ4348 product line is designed specifically for AEC-Q100-compliant automotive power conversion, emphasizing ultra-low IQ, robust transient handling, and EMI-optimized switching for safety-critical subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z?

The absolute maximum input voltage is +42V, enabling compliance with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load-dump tests. Continuous operation is rated up to 36V. Exceeding 42V risks permanent damage, and operation above 36V should only occur during validated transient events-not steady-state conditions.

Does MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z require an external feedback resistor network?

No. This part features a factory-trimmed internal feedback divider for fixed 3.3V output. No external resistors are needed for regulation-only standard input/output capacitors, bootstrap capacitor, soft-start capacitor, and frequency-setting resistor are required for basic operation.

How does the DNU pin function, and what happens if left unconnected?

Pin 14 (DNU) must be connected directly to VCC. Leaving it floating violates the device's functional safety design and may cause undefined behavior, including failure to start or erratic PG signaling. This requirement is explicitly stated in the datasheet and applies to all AEC-Q100 variants.

Can MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z synchronize to an external clock, and what is the acceptable frequency range?

Yes-via the SYNCIN/MODE pin. The device accepts external clocks from 90% to 115% of its free-running frequency (e.g., 315–462 kHz for a 350kHz base). Synchronization ensures deterministic phase alignment across multiple rails, reducing beat frequencies and aiding EMI filtering.

What thermal performance can be expected in a standard 4-layer PCB layout?

On an MPS reference board (8.3cm × 8.3cm, 4-layer, 2oz copper), θJA is 29.2°C/W. At 5A load and 12V input, case temperature rise is ~45°C above ambient-well within the -40°C to +150°C junction limit when proper thermal vias and copper pour are used beneath the exposed pad.

Is the PG signal active-high or open-drain, and what pull-up voltage is recommended?

PG is an open-drain output requiring an external pull-up. The recommended pull-up voltage matches the monitored rail's domain-typically 3.3V for this fixed-output part. A 10kΩ resistor to 3.3V yields <0.3V low-state voltage at 1mA sink, satisfying the datasheet's PG_LOW specification.

Does MPQ4348GLE-33-AEC1-Z support output discharge during shutdown?

Yes. When EN is low, the device actively discharges VOUT through an internal 1.9mA sink (IDISCHARGE), ensuring rapid and controlled rail collapse-critical for safe power sequencing in multi-rail automotive systems.