Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3394S-S-00A

Overview

EV3394S-S-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3394SGS step-up white LED driver IC, designed to validate 4-string parallel WLED backlighting for LCD displays. It supports 8–28 V input, drives up to 12 LEDs per string at 120 mA/string, achieves 2.5% inter-string current matching, and integrates open/short LED protection and programmable over-voltage protection.

For engineers reviewing the EV3394S-S-00A datasheet, EV3394S-S-00A pinout, EV3394S-S-00A application, or EV3394S-S-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3394SGS-based backlight designs under real-world thermal, dimming (PWM/DC), and fault-protection conditions in notebook, monitor, and automotive display systems.

Technical Context

The EV3394S-S-00A implements a fixed-frequency, current-mode boost converter architecture using the MP3394SGS IC in SOIC-16 package with external N-channel MOSFET (AM4490N) and 33 µH power inductor. It delivers regulated 120 mA per string across four independent LED outputs with 2.5% current matching accuracy and low 0.2 V feedback voltage per string.

Protection features include under-voltage lockout (UVLO), thermal shutdown, open/short LED detection, and programmable over-voltage protection triggered via the OVP pin. Dimming is supported via PWM input (100 Hz–20 kHz) or DC voltage on the DIM pin, with EN pin enabling/disabling operation.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3394S-S-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook PC backlight validation, LCD monitor reference design bring-up, and automotive infotainment display prototyping requiring stable component supply and fast-turn evaluation support.

Supply support for EV3394S-S-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, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP3394SGS product line targets high-efficiency, multi-string WLED backlight drivers for LCD panels, emphasizing precision current matching, robust fault protection, and flexible dimming for consumer and automotive displays.

FAQ

What input voltage range does the EV3394S-S-00A support?

The board operates from 8 V to 28 V DC input, validated with 12 V nominal supply. This range accommodates common laptop adapters, automotive battery variations (with transient suppression), and industrial 24 V rails while maintaining stable 120 mA per string output under full load.

How is LED dimming implemented on this evaluation board?

Dimming is controlled via the DIM pin accepting either PWM signals (100 Hz–20 kHz, logic-low <0.5 V, logic-high >1.2 V) or analog DC voltage. The board's schematic shows direct connection to U1's DIM pin (Pin 3), with no onboard filtering-enabling direct microcontroller or PWM generator interfacing.

Does the EV3394S-S-00A include protection against LED string faults?

Yes-it implements open-LED and short-LED detection via the MP3394SGS IC. When one string opens, the board disables switching and asserts fault signaling; short-circuit protection limits output voltage and triggers shutdown. Test waveforms in the reference document confirm response within 100 µs.

What is the maximum number of LEDs per string supported?

The board is configured and tested for 12 white LEDs per string in series, totaling 48 LEDs. With typical 3.2 V forward voltage per LED, this yields ~38.4 V output, staying within the MP3394SGS's 45 V absolute maximum output rating and the board's 100 V output capacitor rating.

Can multiple EV3394S-S-00A boards be cascaded?

No-the board itself is not designed for cascading. However, the underlying MP3394SGS IC supports cascading via its BOSC pin for synchronized switching across multiple drivers. To cascade, users must modify the board's BOSC network (R17/C11) and synchronize external clock sources per the MP3394SGS datasheet.

Is thermal management provided on the evaluation board?

The board uses a 33 µH power inductor rated for 3.5 A, SOIC-16 MP3394SGS with exposed thermal pad (soldered to PCB copper), and discrete MOSFET (AM4490N) with SO-8 footprint. Thermal test data in the reference document confirms stable operation at 120 mA/string with no forced airflow at ambient 25 °C.