Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV28164-D-00A

Overview

EV28164-D-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP28164 high-efficiency, low-quiescent-current buck-boost DC-DC converter. It supports input voltages from 1.2V to 5.5V, delivers adjustable 1.5V–5V output (default 3.3V), sustains up to 2A load (VIN > 2.4V), and operates at 2MHz switching frequency in a compact QFN-11 (2mm × 3mm) package - ideal for single-cell Li-ion or multi-cell alkaline battery-powered portable instruments.

For engineers reviewing the EV28164-D-00A datasheet, EV28164-D-00A pinout, EV28164-D-00A application, or EV28164-D-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of buck-boost regulation under real-world startup, load transient, efficiency, and mode-switching (PSM/PWM) conditions - especially where input voltage crosses output voltage.

Technical Context

The EV28164-D-00A implements a single-inductor, four-switch buck-boost topology using the MP28164GD IC. It operates across input ranges both below and above the regulated output voltage, enabling seamless transition between buck and boost modes without external control logic.

Key operational features include selectable PSM/PWM mode via MODE pin, internal soft-start and compensation, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and power-good (PG) signaling. The board integrates a 1μH/19A inductor, dual 22μF ceramic output capacitors, and precision feedback resistors (R1 = 560kΩ, R2 = 100kΩ) to set VOUT = 3.3V with 0.5V reference.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV28164-D-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered product development, portable instrument prototyping, and tablet PC power architecture validation requiring stable component supply, quick-turn evaluation, and documented performance benchmarks.

Supply support for EV28164-D-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, motor drivers, and LED lighting solutions.

The MP28164 product line targets space-constrained, battery-operated applications needing wide-input-range regulation - specifically engineered for single-cell Li-ion and multi-cell alkaline systems where VIN may dip below or rise above VOUT.

FAQ

What input voltage range does the EV28164-D-00A support?

The board supports 1.2V to 5.5V input, with minimum startup voltage of 1.8V. Operation below 1.8V is not guaranteed; startup must occur within 1.8–5.5V, after which regulation continues down to 1.2V. This enables use with depleting alkaline or Li-ion cells.

How do I change the output voltage on this evaluation board?

VOUT is set by the FB resistor divider (R1 and R2). With default values (R1 = 560kΩ, R2 = 100kΩ) and 0.5V reference, VOUT = 3.3V. To adjust, use VOUT = 0.5V × (1 + R1/R2); R1 should be 300–620kΩ for optimal light-load efficiency.

Does the board support forced PWM (CCM) mode?

Yes. Connect jumper JP1 between MODE and VIN to force continuous conduction mode (CCM). This disables PSM and ensures fixed 2MHz switching regardless of load - useful for EMI-sensitive or constant-frequency timing applications.

What is the maximum achievable output current?

Up to 2A is supported when VIN > 2.4V. Below 2.4V, inductor peak current limiting reduces deliverable load due to duty-cycle constraints - verified per test data on page 1 of the EVB report.

Is power-good (PG) functionality accessible on the board?

Yes. The PG signal is routed to a test point and labeled "VPG" on the silkscreen. It asserts high when VOUT is within ±7.5% of regulation and remains asserted during normal operation - usable for system power sequencing or fault monitoring.

Can the board be used with supercapacitor charging applications?

Yes. Its buck-boost capability across VIN/VOUT crossover, low quiescent current (25μA), and hiccup-mode SCP make it suitable for supercapacitor charge management - particularly where input sources (e.g., energy harvesters) vary widely below and above target storage voltage.