MP3385GF-Z LED Driver Controller Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MP3385GF-Z is a 4-output LED driver IC manufactured by Monolithic Power Systems Inc., designed for backlight applications requiring step-up (boost) DC-DC conversion. This device operates across a 4.5V to 33V supply range and delivers up to 300mA per channel at 80V output. The part is classified as "Not For New Designs," making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications.

Substiute Parts

MP3385GF-Z

Monolithic Power Systems Inc.In Stock: 2120MP3385GF-Z Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SC5012QMLTRT

Semtech CorporationIn Stock: 16090SC5012QMLTRT Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the MP3385GF-Z is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Topology: Step-Up (Boost) DC-DC conversion architecture
• Number of Outputs: 4-channel LED driver configuration
• Supply Voltage Range: Minimum 4.5V input capability
• Output Voltage: Minimum 65V output capability (substitute must support or exceed application requirements)
• Current per Channel: Minimum 150mA per channel (substitute must meet or exceed 300mA requirement for direct replacement)
• Dimming Control: Analog and PWM support (I2C optional for substitutes)
• Applications: Backlight LED driver functionality
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Temperature Range: Operating across -40°C minimum

The SC5012QMLTRT qualifies as a manufacturer-recommended substitute based on matching topology, 4-output configuration, compatible supply voltage range (4.5V to 45V), and backlight application focus. However, the SC5012QMLTRT delivers 150mA per channel versus the MP3385GF-Z's 300mA, requiring application-level current verification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Selection between MP3385GF-Z and SC5012QMLTRT must account for the following factors:

Current Capacity: The MP3385GF-Z delivers 300mA per channel. The SC5012QMLTRT delivers 150mA per channel. Applications requiring the full 300mA per channel cannot use SC5012QMLTRT as a direct replacement without parallel channel configuration or external current boosting.

Output Voltage: The MP3385GF-Z supports 80V output; SC5012QMLTRT supports 65V output. Applications requiring output voltages above 65V cannot use SC5012QMLTRT.

Package Footprint: The MP3385GF-Z uses 20-TSSOP with exposed pad; SC5012QMLTRT uses 24-QFN (4x4). Package substitution requires PCB layout redesign and thermal management re-evaluation.

Dimming Control: The MP3385GF-Z supports I2C dimming in addition to Analog and PWM. SC5012QMLTRT supports only Analog and PWM. Applications dependent on I2C control cannot use SC5012QMLTRT without firmware modification.

Temperature Range: The MP3385GF-Z operates to 125°C junction temperature; SC5012QMLTRT operates to 105°C. High-temperature applications may require MP3385GF-Z.

Compliance: Both parts are RoHS compliant and carry EAR99 ECCN classification. Both are marked "Not For New Designs," indicating obsolescence. For new production, alternative current-generation LED driver ICs should be evaluated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SC5012QMLTRT directly replace MP3385GF-Z in existing designs?

A: Direct replacement is not possible without design modification. The SC5012QMLTRT has lower current per channel (150mA vs. 300mA), lower maximum output voltage (65V vs. 80V), lacks I2C dimming support, uses a different package (24-QFN vs. 20-TSSOP), and has a lower maximum operating temperature (105°C vs. 125°C). Applications must verify compatibility with these reduced specifications.

Q: What is the impact of package change from 20-TSSOP to 24-QFN?

A: Package change requires complete PCB layout redesign, including trace routing, via placement, and thermal pad connection. The 24-QFN (4x4) package has different pin pitch, thermal characteristics, and footprint dimensions compared to 20-TSSOP. Thermal performance must be re-evaluated, as the QFN package may have different thermal resistance characteristics.

Q: Can I parallel channels on SC5012QMLTRT to achieve 300mA per channel?

A: Channel paralleling is not recommended without explicit guidance from the device datasheet. Paralleling introduces current-sharing complexity and potential instability. Consult Semtech Corporation technical documentation before attempting parallel configuration.

Q: Are both parts suitable for new production?

A: No. Both MP3385GF-Z and SC5012QMLTRT are marked "Not For New Designs." For new production, current-generation LED driver ICs from Monolithic Power Systems, Semtech, or other manufacturers should be evaluated.

Q: What is the difference in dimming capability?

A: MP3385GF-Z supports Analog, I2C, and PWM dimming. SC5012QMLTRT supports Analog and PWM dimming only. Applications requiring I2C-based dimming control cannot use SC5012QMLTRT without alternative control architecture.

Q: How do the frequency ranges differ?

A: MP3385GF-Z operates at 100kHz to 900kHz switching frequency. SC5012QMLTRT operates at 200kHz to 2.2MHz. Higher switching frequency in SC5012QMLTRT may reduce inductor size but increases EMI considerations and component stress.