Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ8636GLE-4-Z

Overview

MPQ8636GLE-4-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 4A, 4.5V–18V input, synchronous step-down DC/DC converter in a 16-pin QFN (3mm×4mm) package with non-latch over-voltage protection, Constant-On-Time (COT) control, and 0.611V–13V adjustable output voltage. It delivers high efficiency across load range and supports telecom base stations, server VRMs, and distributed power systems requiring compact, stable 12V-to-1V conversion.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ8636GLE-4-Z datasheet, MPQ8636GLE-4-Z pinout, MPQ8636GLE-4-Z application, or MPQ8636GLE-4-Z equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed thermal and switching parameters, and real-world application implementation guidance for high-current point-of-load designs.

Technical Context

The MPQ8636GLE-4-Z implements adaptive Constant-On-Time (COT) control with feed-forward compensation via the FREQ pin, enabling ultrafast transient response without external loop compensation. Its internal high-side and low-side MOSFETs feature R_DS(ON) of 28 mΩ and 16.4 mΩ respectively at 25°C, optimized for 4A continuous output in CCM operation.

It integrates a 5V VCC LDO, open-drain power-good (PG) signal with 91%–94% rising threshold, soft-start capacitor programming, and non-latch OVP/OCP/thermal shutdown. The device operates with fixed 20–40 ns minimum on-time and 200–1000 kHz programmable frequency using an external resistor from FREQ to IN.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ8636GLE-4-Z uses a thermally enhanced 16-pin QFN package (3mm × 4mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad (EP) connected to PGND for optimal heat dissipation. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise convention from top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPQ8636GLE-4-Z, the MPQ8636GLE-10-Z offers higher current capability and tighter thermal margin but mandates latch-off OVP handling, while RT7295BGJ8F trades programmability for integration simplicity-making MPQ8636GLE-4-Z optimal for designs needing adaptive transient response and field-configurable frequency.

Availability

MPQ8636GLE-4-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure, server power delivery, and industrial distributed power systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MPQ8636GLE-4-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 manufacturing partnerships.

The MPQ8636 product line targets high-efficiency, high-density DC/DC conversion for datacenter, telecom, and industrial applications-emphasizing integrated MOSFETs, adaptive control, and robust protection in compact QFN packages.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended output capacitor for stable operation at 4A?

A minimum 22µF X7R ceramic capacitor with ≤5mΩ ESR is required at the output to ensure COT loop stability and limit ripple to <20mV_pp. For best performance, use two 10µF/0805 capacitors in parallel near the FB and PGND pins, with direct Kelvin connections to the feedback divider.

Does MPQ8636GLE-4-Z support forced PWM mode or only CCM operation?

The MPQ8636GLE-4-Z operates exclusively in continuous conduction mode (CCM) with adaptive COT control and does not support forced PWM or discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). Light-load efficiency is maintained via low quiescent current (860µA typ), not burst-mode operation.

How is the thermal pad (EP) connected in the QFN(3×4mm) package?

The exposed thermal pad (EP) must be soldered directly to a solid PGND copper pour on the PCB, using ≥4 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) filled with solder and connected to inner-layer ground planes. No isolation or thermal relief is permitted-the EP is electrically and thermally tied to PGND pins 10–13.

Can the soft-start time be adjusted independently of the output voltage setting?

Yes. Soft-start time is set solely by the capacitor value on the SS pin and is independent of the FB resistor divider. A 33nF capacitor yields ~2ms ramp; doubling to 66nF extends ramp to ~4ms. No interaction occurs between SS and FB networks when layout guidelines (short traces, no vias on FB) are followed.

What is the maximum allowable voltage on the BST pin relative to SW?

BST voltage must remain within V_SW + 6V (DC) or V_SW + 6.5V (30ns transient). Exceeding this risks gate oxide damage to the high-side driver. A 0.1µF 16V X7R ceramic capacitor between BST and SW is mandatory and must be placed within 2mm of both pins.

Is the power-good (PG) signal compatible with 1.8V logic interfaces?

Yes. PG is an open-drain output with 12mA sink capability and <600mV VOL at 12mA. When pulled up to 1.8V via 100kΩ, it delivers clean logic-low and logic-high levels compatible with 1.8V I/O standards-no level-shifter required.

Does the EN pin include internal hysteresis, and what is its value?

Yes. The EN pin has 250mV hysteresis between turn-on and turn-off thresholds. With a typical 1.3V rising threshold, the falling threshold is 1.05V. This prevents oscillation during slow-rising input rails and supports reliable automatic startup using resistive dividers.