Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3422-G-00A

Overview

EV3422-G-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP3422 synchronous step-up converter, a 6.5A, 600kHz current-mode DC/DC boost IC with true output disconnect, 2.5–5.5V input range, and integrated P-channel MOSFET for high efficiency in space-constrained battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the EV3422-G-00A datasheet, EV3422-G-00A pinout, EV3422-G-00A application, or EV3422-G-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3422's 5V/2.5A output capability, inrush limiting, short-circuit protection, and soft-start behavior under real load conditions with minimal external components.

Technical Context

The EV3422-G-00A implements the MP3422 IC in a fully assembled, tested layout optimized for low-noise 5V generation from single-cell Li-ion (2.8–4.2V) inputs. It integrates all critical passives-including 1.5µH shielded inductor, four 22µF 1210 ceramic output capacitors, and precision feedback resistors-to validate full-load efficiency (>90% at 2A), transient response, and thermal performance.

Board-level features include EN-controlled enable/disable, jumper-configurable VIN connection to NC pin 10, optional grounding of NC pin 7, and accessible test points for VOUT, SW, FB, and EN-enabling direct oscilloscope probing of switching waveforms, regulation accuracy (±1.5%), and shutdown isolation.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3422-G-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable media players, handheld medical diagnostics devices, and wireless peripheral power validation requiring stable component supply and fast time-to-test.

Supply support for EV3422-G-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 leadership in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED controllers.

The MP3422 product line targets ultra-compact, high-efficiency boost converters for single-cell battery systems where output disconnect, low quiescent current (43 µA), and robust protection are mandatory design requirements.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported by the EV3422-G-00A board?

The board operates with a validated input range of 2.8 V to 4.2 V, aligned with standard single-cell Li-ion battery discharge profiles. Operation below 2.5 V is not guaranteed, as the MP3422 IC requires ≥2.5 V minimum input for startup and regulation.

Can the output voltage be adjusted, and how?

Yes, VOUT is set to 5 V by default using R1 = 787 kΩ and R2 = 150 kΩ. To adjust, replace R2 using the formula VOUT = VFB × (R1 + R2)/R2, where VFB = 0.807 V. The board provides solder pads and silkscreen labels for resistor replacement.

How is the MP3422 enabled or disabled on this evaluation board?

The EN pin is accessible via test point TP3. Drive EN >1.2 V to enable the converter; drive EN <0.4 V to disable it. By default, the IC powers up when VIN is applied, but external logic control is fully supported for sequencing or low-power sleep modes.

Does the board implement true output disconnect during shutdown?

Yes. When the MP3422 is disabled, its internal P-channel MOSFET opens, isolating VOUT from VIN. This prevents backfeed and ensures zero output leakage current, verified in Rev.1.0 test results under no-load shutdown conditions.

What inductor is used, and why was it selected?

The board uses Wurth 744311150: a 1.5 µH, shielded SMD inductor rated for 11 A DC and 14 A saturation current. Its low DCR (6.6 mΩ) minimizes conduction loss, while its saturation rating supports the MP3422's 6.5 A switch current limit without core collapse.

Are all NC pins on the MP3422 used on this board?

No. Pin 10 (NC) is shorted to VIN per design note; Pin 7 (NC) is left floating by default but may be grounded if required for noise suppression. Neither pin connects to internal circuitry-their handling follows MPS layout guidance in the MP3422 datasheet.