Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3387L-RT-00A

Overview

EV3387L-RT-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is a 6-string white LED driver evaluation board built around the MP3387L boost controller IC, designed for LCD backlighting in portable displays. It supports 3–25V input, delivers up to 45V output, regulates 20mA per string with ±3% matching accuracy, and implements mixed analog/PWM dimming with 24–27.5kHz audible-noise suppression.

For engineers reviewing the EV3387L-RT-00A datasheet, EV3387L-RT-00A pinout, EV3387L-RT-00A application, or EV3387L-RT-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3387L's 6-channel current regulation, programmable switching frequency, cascading capability, OVP/OCP/OTP protection, and mixed-dimming transfer point at 25% duty cycle.

Technical Context

The EV3387L-RT-00A implements the MP3387L's peak-current-mode PWM control architecture with external resistor-programmable switching frequency. It routes six independent current-sink outputs (LED1–LED6), each with 500mV compliance voltage and 3% inter-string matching, directly to edge-mounted screw terminals for LED string connection.

Board-level features include selectable dimming mode via R11 jumper, JP1 for VCC-VIN coupling below 5V, and on-board components matching MP3387L's recommended layout: 10μH power inductor (DS84LCB-B1134AS-100M), 4.7μF input capacitor (GRM32ER71H475KA8), and 0.47μF ceramic output capacitor (GRM188R71C47KA88D).

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3387L-RT-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook PC backlight validation, tablet computer display prototyping, and automotive infotainment display development requiring stable component supply and fast-turn evaluation support.

Supply support for EV3387L-RT-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.

The MP3387L product line targets energy-efficient LCD backlight drivers for portable and automotive displays, emphasizing precision current matching, wide input range, and integrated protection for robust field operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum number of LEDs supported per string on the EV3387L-RT-00A?

The board is validated with 10 LEDs in series per string at 12V input and 20mA current. With up to 45V output and typical white LED forward voltage of 3.2V, it supports up to 14 LEDs per string (14 × 3.2V = 44.8V), assuming sufficient thermal margin and layout integrity.

How do I configure pure PWM dimming instead of mixed dimming?

Set JP2 (labeled "MIX") by populating R11 (0Ω) to connect the MIX pin to GND. This disables analog dimming and configures the MP3387L for direct PWM-only control on the DIM pin, with dimming frequency automatically shifted to 24–27.5kHz.

Does the EV3387L-RT-00A support cascading multiple boards?

Yes - the MP3387L supports cascading via its SYNC pin. The EV3387L-RT-00A exposes SYNC and SYNC_OUT pins, allowing synchronization of switching frequency across multiple boards to reduce EMI and eliminate beat frequencies in multi-panel systems.

What is the purpose of JP1 on the evaluation board?

JP1 bridges VCC to VIN. When input voltage is below 5V, this ensures the MP3387L's internal LDO receives adequate headroom to power its logic and gate drivers, maintaining stable operation and preventing undervoltage lockout during low-input testing.

Can the board drive strings with different LED counts simultaneously?

Yes - each of the six LED outputs (LED1–LED6) operates independently with identical current regulation. Different string lengths are supported as long as total forward voltage per string remains ≤45V and compliance voltage (500mV) is maintained across all current sources.

Is thermal performance data available for continuous operation?

Test results in the reference design report show junction temperature rise of <15°C above ambient at 25°C ambient, 12V input, and full 6-string 20mA load - measured using IR thermography on U1 (MP3387L in TQFN24) with standard 4-layer PCB copper pour.