Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 125mΩ high-side and 115mΩ low-side MOSFETs, delivering 1A continuous output current across a 3.3V–36V input range. It features programmable 350kHz–2.5MHz switching frequency, 14μA no-load quiescent current, and power-good (PG) monitoring - optimized for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and body control units requiring robust operation at −40°C to +125°C junction temperature.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P application, or MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection criteria include its wettable flank QFN-16 package for automated optical inspection, AAM/CCM mode selectability via SYNC pin, low-dropout capability down to ~98% duty cycle, and CISPR25 Class 5 EMI compliance in typical automotive layouts.

Technical Context

The MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P employs peak-current-mode control with internal error amplifier and COMP voltage feedback loop, enabling fast transient response and simplified compensation. Its PLL-based oscillator supports precise external synchronization and phase alignment (in-phase or 180° out-of-phase) via the PHASE pin.

It integrates BST refresh logic to sustain high-duty-cycle operation by forcing low-side conduction when BST–SW falls below 2.5V, and uses dual ground domains (PGND for power return, AGND for analog reference) to minimize noise coupling in sensitive feedback paths.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P is housed in a thermally enhanced, lead-free, halogen-free QFN-16 (3mm × 4mm) package with exposed thermal pad and wettable flank leads for automated optical inspection and solder joint integrity verification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480-Q1 and TPS62933-Q1, MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P uniquely combines 36V input tolerance, wettable flank packaging, and 14μA quiescent current in a 1A solution - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-backed, and high-reliability automotive edge nodes.

Availability

MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, body control units, and telematics systems requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPQ9841GLE-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 analog and power ICs, with over two decades of expertise in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and automotive-grade power solutions.

The MPQ9841 product line targets automotive power management applications demanding AEC-Q100 qualification, ultra-low quiescent current, and compact footprint - specifically engineered for next-generation ECU, ADAS, and electrification subsystems.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the BIAS pin, and when should it be used?

The BIAS pin supplies an external 5–18V source to power the internal regulator, reducing power dissipation and improving efficiency-especially at high input voltages (>15V). When unused, BIAS must be floated or tied to GND; connecting it to VIN is not recommended due to potential overvoltage on internal circuitry.

How does the MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P achieve low dropout operation?

It uses BST refresh logic that forces the low-side MOSFET on when BST–SW drops below 2.5V, recharging the bootstrap capacitor and enabling effective duty cycles up to ~98%. This allows stable regulation even at VIN/VOUT ratios exceeding 10:1, such as 24V→3.3V at high ambient temperatures.

Can the MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P be synchronized to an external clock, and what are the timing requirements?

Yes-apply a 350kHz–2.5MHz square wave to the SYNC pin with high-level >1.8V and low-level <0.4V. The external clock must exceed the RFREQ-set frequency by ≥250kHz to ensure reliable locking; pulse width has no minimum requirement, but rise/fall times should be <50ns for robust edge detection.

What is the function of the PHASE pin, and how is it configured?

The PHASE pin selects whether the internal switching waveform aligns in-phase or 180° out-of-phase with the external SYNC clock. Drive PHASE high for in-phase operation, low for 180° offset. If synchronization is unused, connect PHASE to GND to prevent noise coupling into the control loop.

Does the MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P support both adjustable and fixed-output versions?

Yes-the MPQ9841GLE-AEC1-P is the adjustable version (FB pin used with resistor divider); fixed-output variants like MPQ9841GLE-33-AEC1-Z and MPQ9841GLE-5-AEC1-Z integrate internal feedback and omit the FB pin connection, simplifying layout for standard 3.3V or 5V rails.

How is thermal performance validated for automotive use?

Thermal characterization was performed per JESD51-7 on a 4-layer PCB (2oz copper), yielding θJA = 48°C/W and θJC = 11°C/W. At 1A load and 125°C ambient, junction temperature remains below 150°C limit with ≥4 cm² of 2oz thermal pad copper, satisfying AEC-Q100 Grade 1 thermal reliability requirements.