Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous buck-boost or buck LED driver optimized for automotive infrared (IR) illumination. It delivers up to 1.2A constant current in buck-boost mode or 3A in buck mode, supports 6V–42V input, operates with 410kHz fixed-frequency hysteretic control, and enables 10Hz–2kHz PWM dimming for driver monitoring systems (DMS) and automotive IR cameras.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P application, or MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-mode topology configuration (via IREF resistor), integrated 44mΩ/40mΩ MOSFETs, NTC-based thermal derating, fault-indicating open-drain FAULT pin, and wettable-flank QFN-19 package for automated optical inspection.

Technical Context

The MPQ7230 employs constant-frequency hysteretic control-eliminating loop compensation while delivering sub-100ns transient response-and supports topology reconfiguration via external resistor on IREF: ≤9.09kΩ selects buck-boost (1.2A), ≥14.7kΩ selects buck (3A). Its internal power stage integrates high- and low-side MOSFETs with matched R_DS(ON) (44mΩ HS / 40mΩ LS) and built-in bootstrap circuitry (BST–SW capacitor).

It implements comprehensive protection including latch-off over-current protection (OCP), programmable thermal derating via NTC voltage thresholding (0.53V–1.25V), thermal shutdown at 155°C–185°C, LED short/open detection, and output OVP/UVP with fault reporting through the FAULT pin. Spread-spectrum switching (±10% f_SW) reduces EMI peak emissions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable-flank QFN-19 (3mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad, rated MSL Level 1, and optimized for automotive thermal and solder-joint reliability.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar IR LED driver applications.

Compared with MPQ7220GLE-AEC1-Z and TLC59284RTJR, MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P uniquely combines dual-mode topology, integrated high-current power stage, and programmable thermal derating-enabling single-part scalability across DMS, night-vision, and occupancy detection systems without redesign.

Availability

MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive driver monitoring systems (DMS), night-vision camera illumination, and in-cabin occupancy detection requiring stable component supply under AEC-Q100 Grade 1 conditions.

Supply support for MPQ7230GLE-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 for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MPQ7230 belongs to MPS's automotive-grade LED driver product line, engineered specifically for infrared illumination in safety-critical driver assistance and cabin monitoring systems-emphasizing topology flexibility, thermal resilience, and EMI robustness.

FAQ

What topology configurations does MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P support?

The MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P supports two distinct topologies selected by an external resistor on the IREF pin: ≤9.09kΩ configures buck-boost mode (up to 1.2A), while ≥14.7kΩ configures buck mode (up to 3A). This allows one IC to serve multiple LED string voltage requirements without changing the bill of materials.

How does the NTC-based thermal derating function?

The NTC pin sources current (5× or 50× the IREF reference current) into an external thermistor network. When the resulting voltage crosses factory-trimmed thresholds (0.53V, 0.89V, 1.25V), LED current is linearly reduced to 50%, 74%, or 98% of nominal-preventing thermal shutdown while maintaining partial illumination.

Can MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P drive LEDs at 30FPS or 60FPS without timing artifacts?

Yes. The DIM pin accepts PWM signals from 10Hz to 2kHz, with guaranteed minimum on-time of 100µs and maximum off-time of 100ms. This fully covers 30FPS (33.3ms period), 60FPS (16.7ms), and 120FPS (8.3ms) frame rates while avoiding FAULT mis-triggering due to short pulses.

What protection features are included and how are faults reported?

Integrated protections include LED short/open detection, over-current protection (latch-off), output over/under-voltage lockout, thermal derating, thermal shutdown (155°C–185°C), and NTC fault detection. All faults assert the open-drain FAULT pin low, with internal 300kΩ pull-up to VIN for direct microcontroller interrupt interfacing.

Is the QFN-19 package compatible with standard automotive PCB assembly processes?

Yes. The MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P uses a wettable-flank QFN-19 (3mm × 4mm) package with MSL Level 1 rating and lead-free/halogen-free construction. Its side-wettable leads enable automated optical inspection (AOI) of solder joints-a critical requirement for automotive manufacturing quality control.

Does MPQ7230GLE-AEC1-P require external compensation components?

No. It uses constant-frequency hysteretic control architecture, which eliminates the need for external loop compensation components (e.g., type-II/type-III networks). This simplifies design, reduces BOM count, and ensures inherently stable transient response without tuning.

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

The "AEC1" suffix denotes AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, certifying operation across −40°C to +125°C ambient temperature with full electrical testing, reliability stress screening (HTOL, TC, UHAST), and failure analysis per automotive standards-ensuring suitability for engine bay–adjacent or cabin-mounted safety systems.