Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P

Overview

MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P from Monolithic Power Systems is an AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualified, synchronous step-down DC/DC converter delivering 2A continuous output current across a 3.3V–36V input range. It integrates 125mΩ high-side and 55mΩ low-side MOSFETs, operates with 14μA no-load quiescent current, supports 350kHz–2.5MHz programmable switching frequency, and features power-good (PG) signaling and external soft-start-designed for automotive body control modules requiring robust start-stop operation and cold-crank resilience.

For engineers reviewing the MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P datasheet, MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P pinout, MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P application, or MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P equivalent, key selection considerations include its wettable flank QFN-16 package for automated optical inspection, AEC-Q100 qualification evidence, 80ns minimum on-time for high-duty-cycle operation, selectable forced CCM/AAM modes, and integrated hiccup OCP with thermal shutdown.

Technical Context

The MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P employs peak-current-mode control with internal error amplifier and PLL-based oscillator, enabling fast transient response and simplified loop compensation. Its dual-mode operation-forced continuous conduction mode (CCM) or advanced asynchronous mode (AAM)-is selected at startup via SYNC pin logic level, directly affecting light-load efficiency and output ripple characteristics.

Bootstrap charging is managed by an internal regulator maintaining ~5V BST-to-SW bias; BST refresh logic activates when BST–SW drops below 2.5V, enabling >95% effective duty cycle in dropout conditions. The device uses internal 0.8V reference with ±1.5% feedback accuracy and supports both adjustable and fixed-output variants via FB configuration.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P is housed in a wettable flank QFN-16 package (3mm × 4mm, 0.5mm pitch), optimized for automated optical inspection (AOI) and solder joint reliability in automotive reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS62933RGER and LM61480QRNXTQ1, MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P uniquely balances AEC-Q100 compliance, wettable flank manufacturability, 2A capability, and sub-15μA IQ-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, high-volume automotive modules where footprint, testability, and cranking performance are jointly critical.

Availability

MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, ADAS camera subsystems, and industrial telematics trackers requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 traceability and long-term production support.

Supply support for MPQ9842GLE-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 design centers in the US, China, and Taiwan, and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MPQ9842 belongs to MPS's automotive-grade DC/DC converter product line, engineered specifically for harsh-temperature, high-reliability vehicle subsystems-including BCMs, lighting, and infotainment-where AEC-Q100 compliance, low IQ, and robust EMI behavior are mandatory.

FAQ

What does the "-AEC1-P" suffix indicate in MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P?

The "-AEC1" denotes AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualification (−40°C to +125°C junction temperature), while "-P" signifies tape-and-reel packaging per standard MPS ordering conventions. This part meets full automotive stress testing requirements including HTOL, temperature cycling, and ESD.

Can MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P operate with a 3.3V input?

No-it has a 3.3V minimum input voltage but requires ≥4.0V to guarantee startup under all conditions due to internal UVLO hysteresis (2.4V–3.2V rising threshold). For true 3.3V-input operation, a pre-bias capable converter like MPQ4420A is required.

How is the wettable flank feature implemented in the QFN-16 package?

The MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P uses a modified QFN-16 footprint with extended side-wall plating on all perimeter pins, enabling reliable solder fillet formation visible under AOI. This eliminates reliance on X-ray inspection for solder joint integrity in automotive production lines.

Does the MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P support output voltages other than 3.3V and 5V?

Yes-the base MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P variant is adjustable via external resistor divider on FB. Fixed 3.3V (MPQ9842GLE-33-AEC1) and 5V (MPQ9842GLE-5-AEC1) versions exist, but the "-AEC1-P" suffix refers to the adjustable version unless otherwise specified in order code.

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

The BIAS pin accepts an external 5V–18V supply to power internal circuitry, reducing VIN-to-VCC LDO losses. Use it when efficiency above 92% at full load is required-especially with high VIN (e.g., 24V input)-or when thermal headroom is constrained on dense PCBs.

How does the MPQ9842GLE-AEC1-P handle thermal overload?

It features thermal shutdown at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis. When triggered, the device halts switching, discharges SS capacitor, and remains latched off until die temperature falls below 150°C, then automatically resumes operation-no external reset needed.

Is the 80ns minimum on-time guaranteed over temperature and process variation?

Yes-the 80ns value is characterized across −40°C to +125°C and wafer lots, and is guaranteed by design (not production-tested). It enables reliable operation at 2.5MHz with 3.3V output from 36V input (11% duty cycle), verified in typical application circuits.