Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3370-N-00A

Overview

EV3370-N-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3370 single-string boost LED driver IC, featuring a fixed-frequency peak-current-mode controller with integrated 100mΩ/50V low-side MOSFET, 38V output capability, 300mA LED string current, and support for PWM/analog dimming in SOIC-8EP package. It enables rapid validation of medium-current backlighting and general lighting designs.

For engineers reviewing the EV3370-N-00A datasheet, EV3370-N-00A pinout, EV3370-N-00A application, or EV3370-N-00A equivalent, this board provides verified reference layout, BOM, thermal performance data, and dimming interface implementation guidance for MP3370-based LED driver systems.

Technical Context

The EV3370-N-00A implements the MP3370 IC in a fully assembled, tested configuration with external compensation (COMP pin), current-set resistor (ISET), and EN/DIM multifunction control pin supporting both enable and dimming functions. Input range is 3.5V–36V, output regulated up to 38V with cycle-by-cycle current limiting and 43.5V over-voltage protection.

Board-level features include soft-start timing via internal circuitry, thermal shutdown, LED open/short detection, and inductor/diode short protection - all derived directly from MP3370's integrated safety architecture. The SOIC-8EP footprint and exposed pad ensure thermal reliability during sustained 300mA operation.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3370-N-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD backlight validation, architectural LED module prototyping, and industrial status lighting development requiring stable component supply and documented reference design fidelity.

Supply support for EV3370-N-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 power management ICs, with expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, motor drivers, and battery management solutions.

The MP3370 product line targets medium-power LED applications requiring high-efficiency, thermally robust, and dimming-flexible boost architectures - optimized for cost-sensitive yet reliability-critical lighting systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV3370-N-00A?

The EV3370-N-00A is a fully assembled evaluation board designed exclusively to demonstrate and validate the MP3370 single-string boost LED driver IC. It provides a working reference design with confirmed layout, BOM, thermal performance, and dimming interface implementation - not a production-ready subsystem or standalone IC.

Does the board support both PWM and analog dimming simultaneously?

No. Dimming mode is determined by the frequency applied to the EN/DIM pin: PWM dimming requires signal frequency below 1kHz, while analog dimming requires frequency above 5kHz. The board does not support concurrent or mixed-mode dimming without external logic reconfiguration.

Can the EV3370-N-00A drive multiple LED strings?

No. The board implements only a single-string topology per MP3370's architecture. It lacks parallel current-sense paths, independent feedback loops, or multi-channel gate drivers required for multi-string operation. Each EV3370-N-00A supports one LED string up to 300mA and 38V.

What is the role of the COMP pin on this evaluation board?

The COMP pin connects to an external compensation network (R/C on U1 Pin 4) that stabilizes the peak-current-mode control loop. Its placement and component values are optimized for 3.5–36V input, 300mA load, and 38V output - enabling loop bandwidth tuning across varying LED forward voltage and temperature conditions.

Is the MP3370GN IC on the board lead-free and RoHS-compliant?

Yes. The MP3370GN IC mounted on EV3370-N-00A is lead-free, halogen-free, and compliant with the EU RoHS directive. MPS confirms green status for this part on its official Quality Assurance portal, with full material declarations available upon request.

How is thermal performance validated on this board?

Thermal performance is validated using the SOIC-8EP package's exposed pad soldered to a dedicated copper pour on the bottom layer, with measured junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of ≤45°C/W under 300mA continuous load at 25°C ambient - consistent with MP3370's datasheet derating curves and layout guidelines.