Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV1542DK-00A

Overview

EV1542DK-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP1542 700 kHz / 1.3 MHz current-mode boost converter IC, featuring a 2 A, 0.18 Ω internal MOSFET switch, 2.5–6 V input range, 8 V fixed output (adjustable to 12 V), and 400 mA load capability. It supports LCD displays, portable devices, handheld computers, and digital cameras.

For engineers reviewing the EV1542DK-00A datasheet, EV1542DK-00A pinout, EV1542DK-00A application, or EV1542DK-00A equivalent, key selection factors include switching frequency selectability (700 kHz vs. 1.3 MHz), programmable soft-start via external capacitor, compensation pin flexibility for loop tuning, UVLO/thermal/current protection, and MSOP-8 footprint compatibility with MP1542.

Technical Context

The EV1542DK-00A implements a fixed-frequency current-mode control architecture using the MP1542 IC, enabling fast transient response and stable regulation across 2.5–6 V input. Its dual-frequency operation (700 kHz or 1.3 MHz) is selected via JP1 jumper, directly affecting inductor size and EMI filter design.

Board-level features include an external compensation pin (COMP) for custom loop dynamics, soft-start timing set by capacitor on SS pin, and feedback network (R1/R2) allowing output voltage adjustment from 8 V to ≥12 V. The 1.25 V reference at FB enables precise output scaling using resistor dividers.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV1542DK-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD backlight power design, portable medical device power staging, and handheld computing peripheral regulation requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping validation.

Supply support for EV1542DK-00A 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 core expertise in DC-DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP1542 product line targets compact, high-efficiency boost applications in space-constrained portable electronics, emphasizing low quiescent current, wide input range, and flexible frequency selection for EMI-sensitive designs.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage of the EV1542DK-00A, and how is it set?

The board is configured for 8 V output using R1 = 53.6 kΩ and R2 = 10 kΩ, based on the MP1542's 1.25 V feedback reference. The formula VOUT = 1.25 × (1 + R1/R2) yields 8.0 V. R1 can be changed to adjust output-e.g., 86.6 kΩ sets 12 V-while ensuring C2 voltage rating matches the new VOUT.

How do I change the switching frequency between 700 kHz and 1.3 MHz?

Frequency selection is controlled by jumper JP1: short pins 1–2 for 1.3 MHz operation; short pins 2–3 for 700 kHz. This configures the FSEL pin on the MP1542. No solder modification or component change is required-only physical jumper repositioning.

Can the EV1542DK-00A deliver 500 mA at 12 V from a 5 V input as stated in the MP1542 datasheet?

No-the board's 4.7 µH inductor (Toko A915AY-4R7M, 2.01 A saturation current) and layout are optimized for ≤400 mA at 8 V. While the MP1542 IC itself supports 500 mA at 12 V from 5 V, achieving that requires inductor and capacitor rework per the datasheet's recommended 3.3 µH/2.5 A part and higher-voltage output caps.

Is the COMP pin accessible for loop compensation tuning?

Yes-the COMP pin (Pin 4 of U1, MP1542) is routed to test point TP3 and is fully accessible for external compensation network connection. This allows engineers to optimize phase margin and transient response for custom output capacitors or load profiles beyond the default 10 µF ceramic setup.

Does the board include enable/disable functionality, and how is it implemented?

Yes-EN (Pin 7 of U1) is tied to VIN by default, enabling the MP1542 automatically when input is applied. To disable, disconnect EN from VIN and ground it. The board provides no dedicated EN pushbutton or logic-level interface; manual wiring or external control signal is required.

What is the purpose of the "Not Stuffed" C5 position in the BOM?

C5 is reserved for optional input bypass capacitance enhancement. Though not populated, its 0805 footprint allows adding a second 10 µF X7R ceramic capacitor in parallel with C1/C2 to reduce high-frequency input ripple and improve stability under dynamic loads-particularly useful when operating near 6 V input or with long input traces.