Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3389EF-00A

Overview

EV3389EF-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3389EF step-up LED driver IC, designed to validate 12-string parallel white LED backlighting for large LCD panels. It supports 8–28 V input, delivers up to 60 mA per string (14 LEDs/string), achieves ±2.5% inter-string current regulation, and integrates open/short LED and thermal shutdown protection.

For engineers reviewing the EV3389EF-00A datasheet, EV3389EF-00A pinout, EV3389EF-00A application, or EV3389EF-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3389EF-based backlight designs-especially for notebook PC, LCD monitor, and automotive display systems requiring precise current matching and fault resilience.

Technical Context

The EV3389EF-00A implements a fixed-frequency, current-mode boost converter architecture using external P-channel and N-channel MOSFETs (AM4499P and AM4490N) and internal string current ballast. It operates with 200 kHz–2 MHz programmable switching frequency and supports both DC and PWM dimming modes.

Each of the 12 LED string terminals includes dedicated current-sense feedback (0.2 V reference), enabling low-loss regulation. Protection features include under-voltage lockout (UVLO), over-voltage protection (OVP), open/short LED detection, and thermal shutdown at 150°C.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3389EF-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook PC backlight validation, LCD monitor reference design development, and automotive display system qualification requiring stable component supply and repeatable test platform performance.

Supply support for EV3389EF-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 expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP3389EF product line targets high-efficiency, multi-string LED backlighting for large-format displays, emphasizing tight current matching, robust fault handling, and flexible dimming for consumer and automotive applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV3389EF-00A evaluation board?

The EV3389EF-00A is a dedicated hardware platform for evaluating the MP3389EF LED driver IC. It validates full-system operation-including 12-string parallel driving, current regulation accuracy, dimming response, and protection behavior-under real-world input and load conditions.

Which LED configuration does this board support out-of-the-box?

The board is configured for 12 parallel strings, each containing 14 white LEDs in series. The LED+ and LED1–LED12 terminals are labeled and routed for direct connection to standard 14-LED string panels used in notebook and monitor backlight modules.

How is dimming implemented on the EV3389EF-00A?

Dimming is supported via the PWM DIM pin, accepting rectangular waveforms with logic-low <0.5 V and logic-high >5 V. Recommended frequency range is 200 Hz to 2 kHz. A DC voltage applied to the same pin provides analog-like brightness control.

Does the board include all required passive and active components for operation?

Yes-the board includes the MP3389EF IC (U1), external P- and N-channel MOSFETs (M1/M2), input/output capacitors (C1–C13), inductors (L1), current-sense resistors (R6), and OVP/feedback resistors (R9, R11, R13). No additional components are needed for basic evaluation.

What protection features can be verified using this evaluation board?

All integrated protections are accessible and testable: under-voltage lockout (via VIN ramp), over-voltage protection (adjustable via R9/R11), open/short LED detection (by disconnecting or shorting individual LED strings), and thermal shutdown (observable via temperature rise on U1 or M1/M2).

Is the EV3389EF-00A compatible with other MP3389 variants?

No-the board is specifically designed for the MP3389EF (TSSOP28 package, fixed-frequency current-mode architecture). It is not compatible with MP3389A or MP3389E variants due to differences in pinout, internal architecture, and protection thresholds.