Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3416-J-00A

Overview

EV3416-J-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3416GJ step-up DC/DC converter, demonstrating 1.1A switching current, 9.5μA quiescent current, output disconnect in shutdown, and fixed 3.3V output at input voltages as low as 0.86V - used to validate boost performance in ultra-low-power battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the EV3416-J-00A datasheet, EV3416-J-00A pinout, EV3416-J-00A application, or EV3416-J-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3416-based power architectures including low-voltage startup, light-load efficiency, and output isolation during shutdown.

Technical Context

The EV3416-J-00A implements the MP3416GJ IC in peak current mode control with internal P-channel synchronous rectification, eliminating external Schottky diodes and enabling >80% efficiency at 100–200μA loads. It supports down-mode operation when VIN exceeds VOUT and includes adjustable low-battery detection via LBI/LBO pins.

Board-level design integrates a 3.3μH shielded inductor (Wurth 744042003), 10μF/22μF ceramic output capacitors (Murata GRM219R61A106KE44D and GRM21BR60J226ME39L), and precision feedback resistors (1MΩ R1, 178kΩ R2) to set 3.3V output with 0.504V reference voltage.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3416-J-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered medical devices, handheld computing peripherals, and digital retail displays requiring stable component supply and fast power architecture validation.

Supply support for EV3416-J-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 over two decades of innovation in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MP3416 product line targets ultra-low-power boost applications where sub-1V startup, nanoscale shutdown current, and integrated output disconnect are critical - designed specifically for coin-cell and single-cell battery systems.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the LBI and LBO pins on the EV3416-J-00A board?

The LBI (Low Battery Input) and LBO (Low Battery Output) pins implement adjustable undervoltage detection. LBI accepts a scaled-down VIN signal; when it falls below the internal 0.504V threshold, LBO asserts low to signal battery depletion - configurable via external resistor dividers per the MP3416 datasheet.

Can the output voltage be adjusted, and how?

Yes - VOUT is set by R1 (1MΩ) and R2 (178kΩ) forming a feedback divider. To change output, replace R2 using VOUT = VFB × (1 + R1/R2), where VFB = 0.504V. For example, 5.0V output requires R2 ≈ 103kΩ with same R1.

Does the board support enable control, and what logic levels are required?

Yes - the EN pin accepts standard CMOS logic. Drive EN ≥0.7V to enable the MP3416GJ; drive EN ≤0.2V to disable it. The board routes EN to a test point and includes no pull-up/pull-down, allowing direct microcontroller GPIO control.

What inductor is used, and why is its saturation current important?

The board uses Wurth 744042003: 3.3μH, ISAT = 1.8A, RDC = 65mΩ. Saturation current ≥1.8A ensures the inductor remains linear under the MP3416's 1.1A peak switch current, preventing core saturation, efficiency loss, and thermal runaway during transient load steps.

How is output disconnect implemented, and what is its benefit?

Output disconnect is achieved internally by the MP3416GJ via a dedicated MOSFET that isolates VOUT from VIN during shutdown. This prevents reverse current flow and reduces system standby current to <650nA - essential for extending shelf life in battery-sealed devices like remote controls and medical sensors.

Is thermal protection active on this evaluation board?

Yes - the MP3416GJ IC includes internal thermal shutdown at 155°C. The EV3416-J-00A layout provides copper pour on both layers under U1 for heat dissipation, and the TSOT23-8 package's thermal resistance (θJA ≈ 200°C/W) ensures safe operation up to 300mA continuous output at ambient ≤60°C.