Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV2188-QA-00A

Overview

EV2188-QA-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP2188 dual synchronous step-down regulator, delivering 3A per channel at fixed 1.1V and 1.8V outputs from a 3.6–5.5V input, operating at 1.2MHz with COT control, auto output discharge, and integrated power MOSFETs (60mΩ/30mΩ). It supports SSD and low-voltage I/O system power applications.

For engineers reviewing the EV2188-QA-00A datasheet, EV2188-QA-00A pinout, EV2188-QA-00A application, or EV2188-QA-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of dual-rail power sequencing, transient response under load steps up to 3A, thermal performance in compact 2.2mm × 2.6mm QFN16 layouts, and EN/PG-controlled startup/shutdown behavior.

Technical Context

The EV2188-QA-00A implements the MP2188 IC's constant-on-time (COT) control architecture, enabling fast load-transient response without external compensation. Each channel features independent enable (EN1/EN2) and power-good (PG1/PG2) signals for precise power sequencing in multi-rail systems.

It validates key MP2188 behaviors including 100% duty-cycle operation in dropout, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, cycle-by-cycle current limiting, and automatic output capacitor discharge upon shutdown - all tested with 1µH inductors and 22µF ceramic output capacitors per rail.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV2188-QA-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for solid-state drive (SSD) power validation, low-voltage I/O system development, and handheld/battery-powered device prototyping requiring stable component supply and repeatable test conditions.

Supply support for EV2188-QA-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 design centers across Asia and North America and global manufacturing partnerships.

The MP2188 product line targets space-constrained, high-efficiency dual-rail DC/DC conversion in storage, networking, and portable electronics - emphasizing minimal external components, fast transient response, and robust fault handling.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the EV2188-QA-00A evaluation board?

The EV2188-QA-00A is a fully assembled demonstration platform for the MP2188 dual synchronous buck regulator. It enables engineers to validate electrical performance-including efficiency, transient response, power sequencing, and protection behavior-under real-world conditions using pre-populated 1.1V/1.8V rails, 1µH inductors, and 22µF ceramic output capacitors.

Can the output voltages be adjusted on this board?

Yes - the board supports output voltage reprogramming via external feedback divider resistors. The MP2188 integrates internal resistor networks (214.58kΩ/227.61kΩ per channel), and external R1/R2 values below 20kΩ can set new VOUT using documented formulas. Default configurations deliver fixed 1.1V and 1.8V without modification.

Does the board include power-good and enable functionality?

Yes - both channels feature dedicated EN1/EN2 and PG1/PG2 pins accessible via test points and headers. EN thresholds are 1.2V (turn-on) and 0.4V (turn-off); PG asserts high when output is within ±10% regulation. These signals support controlled power-up/down sequencing in multi-rail systems.

What input and output capacitors are used on the board?

The board uses four 22µF X5R ceramic capacitors: two 10V-rated (C1B, C2B) on the input side, and two 6.3V-rated (C3B, C4B) on the outputs. All are 1206-size Murata GRM31CR61A226ME19L or GRM31CR60J226KE19L parts, optimized for low ESR and high ripple current handling.

Is thermal performance validated on this evaluation board?

Yes - thermal shutdown behavior and steady-state temperature rise are verified per the MP2188 datasheet. The board layout follows MPS-recommended practices: short wide traces for IN/GND/SW paths, input capacitors placed adjacent to VIN/GND pins, and thermal pads of the QFN16 U1 soldered to inner copper layers for effective heat dissipation at full 3A load per channel.