Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV2187-QA-01A

Overview

EV2187-QA-01A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP2187 dual synchronous step-down regulator, delivering fixed 1.1V/1.8V outputs at up to 3A per channel from a 3.6–5.5V input, featuring constant-on-time control, auto output discharge, and cycle-by-cycle current limiting for SSD and low-voltage I/O power applications.

For engineers reviewing the EV2187-QA-01A datasheet, EV2187-QA-01A pinout, EV2187-QA-01A application, or EV2187-QA-01A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of dual-channel 1.2MHz DC/DC conversion with integrated MOSFETs (60mΩ/30mΩ), 80µA quiescent current, and power-good sequencing in a compact 2.2mm × 2.6mm QFN16 footprint.

Technical Context

The EV2187-QA-01A implements the MP2187 dual COT (Constant-On-Time) buck controller, supporting independent enable and power-good signals for precise power sequencing across two regulated outputs. Each channel integrates high-side and low-side MOSFETs with R_DS(on) of 60mΩ and 30mΩ respectively, enabling efficient operation at 1.2MHz switching frequency.

It supports auto-discharge via internal FETs upon shutdown, delivers fast transient response without external compensation, and incorporates thermal shutdown and hiccup-mode short-circuit protection - all validated on the board using 1µH shielded inductors and 22µF ceramic output capacitors per rail.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV2187-QA-01A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for solid-state drive development, low-voltage I/O system power validation, and handheld/battery-powered system prototyping requiring stable component supply and rapid power architecture verification.

Supply support for EV2187-QA-01A 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 innovation in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting solutions.

The MP2187 product line targets space-constrained, high-efficiency dual-rail power delivery in storage and portable computing - emphasizing minimal external components, fast transient response, and seamless integration into compact PCB layouts.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV2187-QA-01A evaluation board?

The EV2187-QA-01A is a fully assembled demonstration platform for the MP2187 dual synchronous buck converter. It provides immediate access to both 1.1V and 1.8V regulated outputs at up to 3A each, with pre-populated 1µH inductors, 22µF ceramic capacitors, and proper layout for thermal and EMI performance - enabling direct functional validation without design iteration.

Can the output voltages be adjusted beyond the default 1.1V and 1.8V?

Yes - only the 1.1V output (VOUT1) is adjustable via external feedback resistors connected to the FB1 pin. The internal reference is 0.6V, and the external divider must satisfy R1 + R2 < 20kΩ. The 1.8V output (VOUT2) is factory-fixed and not user-adjustable on this board.

Does the board support power sequencing between the two outputs?

Yes - the board exposes separate EN1 and EN2 pins, along with dedicated PGOOD1 and PGOOD2 signals. This allows independent enable timing and cascade sequencing (e.g., assert EN1 first, wait for PGOOD1, then assert EN2), critical for FPGA or multi-rail processor power-up compliance.

What input capacitance is recommended when operating at VIN = 3.6V?

The board uses two 22µF 10V X5R capacitors (C1B/C2B) on the input, but the datasheet notes that low-VIN applications may require additional input capacitance. For reliable 3.6V operation under full 6A load, adding one or two extra 10–22µF X5R ceramics near the VIN/GND pads is advised to limit input ripple and prevent dropout.

Is auto output discharge active on both channels?

Yes - both VOUT1 and VOUT2 feature active auto-discharge via internal FETs when EN is deasserted. This ensures rapid voltage decay (<10ms typical) to prevent floating rails or unintended device wake-up during power-down sequences, as confirmed by oscilloscope waveforms in the test report.

What package does the MP2187 IC use on this board?

The MP2187 is mounted in a 2.2mm × 2.6mm, 16-pin QFN package with an exposed thermal pad. The board's layout follows MPS-recommended guidelines: short, wide traces for IN/SW/GND, input capacitors placed adjacent to VIN/GND pins, and feedback resistors located close to the FB pins to minimize noise coupling.