Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z

Overview

MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualified, synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 48mΩ high-side and 20mΩ low-side MOSFETs, delivering up to 6A continuous output current across a 3.3V–45V input range. It features programmable 350kHz–1000kHz switching frequency, 1.7μA shutdown current, and power-good monitoring - designed for automotive infotainment and ADAS power rails where cold-crank (low-dropout) operation and EMI robustness are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z datasheet, MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z pinout, MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z application, or MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z equivalent, key selection factors include its AEC-Q100 qualification, wettable-flank QFN-20 package, selectable AAM/FCCM modes, frequency synchronization capability, and integrated thermal shutdown with hiccup over-current protection.

Technical Context

This regulator employs current-mode control with fast transient response and supports multi-phase operation via SYNCIN/SYNCO pins and ICS current-sharing functionality. Its minimum on-time of 100ns enables high-duty-cycle operation during automotive cold-crank (e.g., VIN = 4.5V → VOUT = 3.3V), while frequency foldback prevents inductor current runaway at startup.

The device implements two distinct light-load strategies: Advanced Asynchronous Mode (AAM) for ultra-low quiescent current (18μA sleep mode), and Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM) for fixed-frequency noise control. Internal MOSFET R_DS(on) values (48mΩ HS / 20mΩ LS) and symmetric VIN routing reduce EMI, and optional Frequency Spread Spectrum (FSS) is available in the MPQ4436A variant.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z is housed in a wettable-flank QFN-20 (4mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad, optimized for automated optical inspection (AOI) and enhanced thermal performance in automotive PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z, the MPQ4433GRE-AEC1-Z offers identical automotive qualification and footprint at reduced current capacity, while the TPS546B24RVFT trades AEC-Q100 compliance and input range for digital configurability - making it unsuitable for safety-critical automotive deployment.

Availability

MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and digital instrument clusters requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 Grade-1 assurance and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MPQ4436GRE-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 MPQ4436 series belongs to MPS's automotive-grade DC/DC converter product line, engineered specifically for harsh-temperature, high-reliability vehicle subsystems where input transients, EMI constraints, and functional safety are primary design drivers.

FAQ

What is the difference between MPQ4436 and MPQ4436A?

The MPQ4436 is the base version without Frequency Spread Spectrum (FSS); the MPQ4436A integrates FSS to reduce peak EMI emissions, enabling easier compliance with CISPR-25 Class 5 radiated/conducted limits. Both share identical pinout, electrical specs, and AEC-Q100 qualification - only the internal oscillator modulation differs.

Can MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z operate down to 3.3V input during cold-crank?

Yes - its 3.3V minimum input rating and 100ns minimum on-time allow stable 3.3V or 5V output even when battery voltage drops to 4.5V during cold-crank. The low-dropout mode automatically engages to maintain regulation without external components.

Is the QFN-20 package lead-free and RoHS-compliant?

Yes - MPQ4436GRE-AEC1-Z uses lead-free, halogen-free packaging and fully complies with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. The wettable flank design supports automated optical inspection and meets J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL-1) requirements.

How is power-good (PG) behavior defined during startup and fault conditions?

PG asserts high only when VOUT reaches and remains within 93%–106% of nominal voltage. It deasserts low if VOUT falls below 91% or exceeds 107.5%, with 30μs delay both rising and falling. During startup, PG remains low until regulation is confirmed, preventing premature system enablement.

Does this IC support external synchronization in multi-phase configurations?

Yes - the SYNCIN pin accepts an external 350–1000kHz clock, and SYNCO outputs a 180° phase-shifted signal. When multiple MPQ4436 units are synchronized, their ICS pins must be paralleled to achieve balanced current sharing across phases.

What is the recommended soft-start capacitor value for a 10ms ramp time?

With a 6μA internal soft-start current source and target VSS ramp to 1.2V, a 12nF capacitor yields ~10ms soft-start time (t_SS ≈ C_SS × 1.2V / 6μA). Use X7R/C0G dielectric; place close to SS and AGND pins with minimal trace length.

How does the MODE pin affect efficiency and EMI performance?

When MODE is pulled low (AAM), the IC skips pulses at light load, reducing switching losses and achieving 18μA IQ - ideal for low-power standby. When pulled high (FCCM), it maintains fixed frequency, simplifying EMI filter design but increasing light-load IQ to ~9.5mA at 470kHz.