Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a fixed-output, 5V, 6A synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 48mΩ high-side and 20mΩ low-side MOSFETs, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, 3.3–45V input range, and 1.7μA shutdown quiescent current-designed for automotive infotainment power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P application, or MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank low-dropout mode, 100ns minimum on-time, hiccup over-current protection, and CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance in automotive power systems.

Technical Context

The MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P employs current-mode control with configurable 350–1000kHz switching frequency and supports both Advanced Asynchronous Modulation (AAM) for light-load efficiency and Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM) for output ripple reduction. Its internal bootstrap circuit drives the high-side FET, while frequency foldback prevents inductor current runaway during start-up.

It integrates a 180° out-of-phase SYNC output, external soft-start control, and a precision open-drain power-good signal with ±5% window (95–105% VOUT). Thermal shutdown at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis ensures fault-tolerant operation under sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable flank QFN-20 (4mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad, rated MSL-1 and qualified per AEC-Q100 Grade 1 (−40°C to +125°C TJ).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61460-Q1 and TPS546B24A, MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P uniquely combines AEC-Q100 Grade 1, wettable flank QFN, CISPR25 Class 5 compliance, and sub-2μA shutdown IQ in a 4mm×4mm package-making it optimal for space-constrained, safety-critical automotive 5V rails.

Availability

MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, instrument clusters, and ADAS camera modules requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 traceability, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ4436AGRE-5-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 core expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and motor drivers.

The MPQ4436A product line delivers AEC-Q100-qualified, high-efficiency synchronous buck regulators targeting automotive power systems where input voltage range, thermal robustness, and EMI performance are critical.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the MODE pin on MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P?

The MODE pin selects between Advanced Asynchronous Modulation (AAM) and Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM). Pulling it low enables AAM for high light-load efficiency; pulling it high forces FCCM to reduce output ripple. It must never be left floating, as that causes undefined operation and potential instability.

Does MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P require external MOSFETs?

No. The device integrates a 48mΩ high-side and 20mΩ low-side MOSFET pair, eliminating the need for external power switches. This reduces solution size, simplifies layout, and improves thermal performance-especially critical in automotive applications with limited board space and airflow.

How is the switching frequency set on MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P?

Switching frequency is set by connecting a resistor from the FREQ pin to GND. For example, a 62kΩ resistor yields ~470kHz, while 26.1kΩ sets ~1000kHz. The fSW vs. RFREQ curve in the datasheet (page 15) provides exact values. External synchronization via SYNCIN is also supported.

What does the PG (power good) signal indicate, and how is it used?

The PG pin is an open-drain output that goes high when VOUT is within 95–105% of 5.0V. It requires an external pull-up resistor. System designers use PG for power sequencing, fault detection, and enabling downstream circuitry only after stable regulation is confirmed-critical for automotive functional safety.

Is MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P compatible with standard reflow profiles?

Yes. It is packaged in a QFN-20 (4mm×4mm) with MSL-1 rating, meaning it can be stored indefinitely at ≤30°C/85% RH and processed using standard lead-free reflow profiles (J-STD-020). The wettable flank design further supports post-solder AOI verification required in automotive manufacturing.

Can MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P operate with input voltages below 5V?

No. The absolute minimum input voltage is 3.3V, but the device requires VIN ≥ VOUT + dropout voltage to regulate. At 6A load, dropout is ~0.5V, so VIN must exceed ~5.5V for reliable 5V output. Below that, it enters low-dropout mode but cannot sustain full 6A current.

What thermal derating applies to MPQ4436AGRE-5-AEC1-P in a typical 4-layer PCB layout?

On a 4-layer 2oz copper EVB (9cm×9cm), θJA is 23°C/W. At TA = 85°C, maximum continuous power dissipation is ~2.8W, supporting ~5.5A at 12V→5V (83% efficiency). Derating curves in the datasheet (page 5) show output current drops to ~4.2A at TA = 105°C for sustained operation.