Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a high-efficiency, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous step-down DC/DC converter delivering 3A continuous output current with 4V–36V input range, 0.8V adjustable output, and integrated 85mΩ/55mΩ MOSFETs-designed for automotive power rails including infotainment head units, ADAS camera modules, and body control modules.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank support (95% max duty cycle), wettable flank QFN-8 package for automated optical inspection, power-good signaling, and 200kHz–2.2MHz external clock synchronization capability.

Technical Context

The MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z employs fixed-frequency peak-current-mode control with internal compensation, enabling stable regulation across wide VIN and load transients. Its bootstrap-driven high-side gate driver supports >65% duty cycles during automotive cold-crank (VIN down to 4V), while the 70ns minimum on-time enables high-VOUT operation at low fSW.

Current-mode architecture delivers fast transient response and inherent cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection. The integrated 5V VCC regulator powers internal circuitry across full VIN range, and the open-drain PG pin provides precise 90% VFB rising threshold with 90μs delay-critical for system power sequencing in automotive ECUs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z is housed in a wettable flank QFN-8 (3mm × 3mm) package, enabling reliable solder-joint inspection in automotive production. The exposed thermal pad must be connected to PCB ground plane via ≥4 thermal vias for optimal thermal performance (θJA = 55°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480QRNXTQ1 and TPS543B20RTWT, MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z uniquely combines AEC-Q100 Grade 1 compliance, wettable flank packaging, and cold-crank capability in a 3A-class device-making it the optimal choice for cost-sensitive, volume automotive applications where manufacturability and qualification are mandatory.

Availability

MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, ADAS camera modules, and body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MPQ4423HGQE-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 analog and power ICs, with design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global distribution through authorized partners.

The MPQ4423H product line delivers compact, AEC-Q100-qualified DC/DC converters optimized for automotive subsystems demanding high efficiency, cold-crank resilience, and production-grade manufacturability in space-constrained layouts.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the BST pin and why is a 20Ω resistor recommended?

The BST pin supplies the floating gate drive voltage for the high-side MOSFET via an external bootstrap capacitor connected between BST and SW. A 20Ω resistor in series with the BST capacitor reduces ringing and voltage spikes on the SW node during switching transitions-critical for EMI control and MOSFET reliability. This resistor value balances spike suppression against bootstrap charging efficiency.

How does the MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z handle automotive cold-crank conditions?

During cold-crank, battery voltage can drop to 4.5V while loads remain active. The MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z supports up to 95% maximum duty cycle and maintains regulation down to 4V input-enabling uninterrupted 3.3V or 5V output. Its current-mode control and fast transient response prevent output droop when engine cranking causes rapid VIN sag.

Can the output voltage be set below 0.8V using external circuitry?

No-the internal reference is fixed at 792mV ±12mV, and the feedback comparator is designed for VOUT ≥ 0.8V. Attempting lower outputs violates the FB pin's operating range and disables regulation. For sub-0.8V rails, a dedicated low-VOUT converter or post-regulator is required.

What is the function of the PG pin and how should it be interfaced?

The PG (Power Good) pin is an open-drain output that asserts high when VOUT reaches ≥90% of its target (e.g., 3.0V for a 3.3V rail), after a 90μs delay. It must be pulled up to VCC or another valid supply (e.g., 100kΩ resistor). PG goes low on undervoltage, thermal shutdown, or EN deactivation-enabling safe system sequencing and fault detection.

Is the MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z pin-compatible with the standard MPQ4423HGQ?

Yes-both share identical QFN-8 (3mm×3mm) footprint, pinout, and electrical characteristics. The "E" suffix denotes the wettable flank variant, which adds solderable side walls for AOI but does not alter pin assignment, thermal pad layout, or land pattern dimensions.

Does the device require external compensation components?

No-the MPQ4423HGQE-AEC1-Z features fully internal compensation optimized for standard 10µH inductors and ceramic output capacitors. No external RC networks are needed for stability across the full operating range, simplifying design and reducing BOM count.

What is the significance of the "-AEC1" suffix in the part number?

The "-AEC1" suffix indicates full AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, meaning the device has undergone rigorous stress testing-including temperature cycling, HTOL, and ESD-to ensure reliability over -40°C to +125°C junction temperature in automotive applications. It is not merely a screening option but a certified qualification grade.