MP3398AGF LED Driver IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MP3398AGF is a 4-output LED driver controller manufactured by Monolithic Power Systems Inc., designed for step-up (boost) topology applications in backlight systems. This IC operates across a 5V to 28V supply range with 350mA per-channel output capability and supports both analog and PWM dimming control at 540kHz switching frequency. The device is housed in a 16-TSSOP package with exposed pad and maintains active product status with full RoHS3 compliance.

Equivalent and substitute parts are identified when design requirements necessitate alternative packaging formats, different supply voltage ranges, enhanced thermal performance, or when primary component availability is constrained. Substitute selection must maintain functional compatibility across the four output channels, dimming control methodology, and boost converter topology.

Substiute Parts

MP3398AGF

Monolithic Power Systems Inc.In Stock: 788MP3398AGF Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

ISL97687IBZ-T

Renesas Electronics CorporationIn Stock: 1185ISL97687IBZ-T Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

LP8860AQVFPRQ1

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 6121LP8860AQVFPRQ1 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

SC5012QMLTRT

Semtech CorporationIn Stock: 16090SC5012QMLTRT Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MP3398AGF are qualified based on the following core compatibility criteria:

• Topology Match: All substitutes must employ step-up (boost) DC DC controller topology with no internal switches
• Output Configuration: Four independent output channels required
• Dimming Capability: Support for analog and/or PWM dimming control
• Supply Voltage Overlap: Minimum supply voltage must not exceed 5V; maximum supply voltage must be at least 28V to maintain compatibility with the original operating range
• Current Capability: Output current per channel must be sufficient for backlight applications (minimum 150mA acceptable for lower-power variants)
• Mounting Type: Surface mount technology required
• Compliance: RoHS3 compliance mandatory; automotive qualification (AEC-Q100) acceptable for enhanced reliability

The three qualified substitutes—ISL97687IBZ-T, LP8860AQVFPRQ1, and SC5012QMLTRT—each meet these criteria while offering variations in package format, frequency range, and supply voltage specifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

ISL97687IBZ-T (Renesas Electronics Corporation)

The ISL97687IBZ-T is an active product suitable for applications where the minimum supply voltage can be raised to 9V. This substitute provides a wider maximum supply voltage (32V) and maintains both analog and PWM dimming support. The 28-SOIC package offers larger pin spacing compared to the 16-TSSOP, which may simplify PCB layout in space-constrained designs. Output current per channel is reduced to 160mA, requiring verification that backlight load requirements do not exceed this specification. Operating temperature range is limited to -40°C to 105°C, which may be restrictive for high-temperature applications.

LP8860AQVFPRQ1 (Texas Instruments)

The LP8860AQVFPRQ1 is an active product with the widest supply voltage range (3V to 48V), providing maximum flexibility for diverse input sources. This device includes AEC-Q100 automotive qualification and maintains the full -40°C to 125°C operating temperature range of the original part. PWM dimming is supported; however, analog dimming capability is not available. The 32-PowerLQFP package is larger than the original 16-TSSOP, requiring additional PCB area. Output current per channel is 150mA, necessitating load verification. This substitute is recommended for automotive applications and designs requiring extended supply voltage compatibility.

SC5012QMLTRT (Semtech Corporation)

The SC5012QMLTRT is designated "Not For New Designs" and carries automotive-grade qualification. This part maintains both analog and PWM dimming support and offers a compact 24-QFN (4x4) package. Supply voltage range (4.5V to 45V) is compatible with the original specification. Output current per channel is 150mA. The "Not For New Designs" status indicates this device is in end-of-life phase; selection should be limited to legacy system maintenance or where existing design validation has been completed. RoHS compliance is confirmed but MSL rating (1, Unlimited) indicates superior moisture resistance compared to the original part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the ISL97687IBZ-T replace the MP3398AGF in a design with a 5V input supply?

A: No. The ISL97687IBZ-T requires a minimum supply voltage of 9V. The MP3398AGF operates from 5V minimum. This substitute is not compatible with 5V input designs without additional voltage regulation.

Q: What is the impact of reduced output current (160mA or 150mA) when substituting for the MP3398AGF (350mA)?

A: Output current per channel directly determines the maximum LED brightness and power delivery capability. Substitutes with 150mA or 160mA per-channel ratings are suitable only for applications where total backlight power requirements do not exceed these limits. Load analysis must be performed to confirm compatibility.

Q: Is the LP8860AQVFPRQ1 suitable for automotive applications?

A: Yes. The LP8860AQVFPRQ1 carries AEC-Q100 automotive qualification and is recommended for automotive backlight and lighting applications. It maintains the full -40°C to 125°C operating temperature range.

Q: Why is the SC5012QMLTRT marked "Not For New Designs"?

A: This designation indicates the part is in end-of-life phase and is no longer recommended for new product development. It may be used for legacy system support or maintenance where existing design validation has been completed. New designs should prioritize active products: MP3398AGF, ISL97687IBZ-T, or LP8860AQVFPRQ1.

Q: Does the LP8860AQVFPRQ1 support analog dimming?

A: No. The LP8860AQVFPRQ1 supports PWM dimming only. The MP3398AGF, ISL97687IBZ-T, and SC5012QMLTRT all support both analog and PWM dimming. If analog dimming is required, these three alternatives are necessary.

Q: What are the package size implications when substituting?

A: The MP3398AGF uses a compact 16-TSSOP package (4.40mm width). Substitutes employ larger packages: ISL97687IBZ-T (28-SOIC, 7.50mm width), LP8860AQVFPRQ1 (32-PowerLQFP, 7x7mm), and SC5012QMLTRT (24-QFN, 4x4mm). PCB layout and thermal management must be re-evaluated for each substitute to ensure adequate spacing and heat dissipation.

Q: Are all substitutes RoHS3 compliant?

A: The MP3398AGF, ISL97687IBZ-T, and LP8860AQVFPRQ1 are ROHS3 compliant. The SC5012QMLTRT is RoHS compliant but not specifically ROHS3 certified. Compliance requirements should be verified against project specifications.