Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3423-G-00A

Overview

EV3423-G-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP3423 synchronous step-up converter IC, which delivers 5V/3.1A from a 2.8–4.2V input with 600kHz fixed-frequency operation, internal PMOS output disconnect, and 9A switch current limit in a 2mm×2mm QFN-14 package.

For engineers reviewing the EV3423-G-00A datasheet, EV3423-G-00A pinout, EV3423-G-00A application, or EV3423-G-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-efficiency boost conversion for battery-powered portable electronics requiring true load disconnect and minimal external components.

Technical Context

The EV3423-G-00A implements the MP3423 IC in a fully assembled, tested layout with optimized power stage (1.5µH shielded inductor, 22µF ×4 output capacitance), fixed 5V output set by R1=787kΩ/R2=150kΩ feedback network, and EN-controlled enable logic compatible with 1.2V high / 0.4V low TTL thresholds.

It supports input range 2.8–4.2V, delivers up to 3.1A at 5V with >90% peak efficiency, integrates soft-start and internal compensation, and enforces protection via OCP, SCP, OVP, and OTP-verified per test data at VIN=3.3V, TA=25°C.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3423-G-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable media players, handheld medical devices, and wireless peripheral designs requiring stable component supply, fast functional validation, and production-ready reference layout.

Supply support for EV3423-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 expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions since 1997.

The MP3423 product line targets ultra-compact, high-efficiency boost converters for single-cell battery systems where output disconnect, low quiescent current (43 µA), and minimal external component count are critical design requirements.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported by the EV3423-G-00A evaluation board?

The board operates with a validated input range of 2.8 V to 4.2 V, aligned with the MP3423 IC's specification and optimized for single-cell lithium-based batteries. Operation outside this range may compromise regulation, efficiency, or protection functionality.

How is the output voltage set, and can it be adjusted?

The default output is fixed at 5 V using R1 = 787 kΩ and R2 = 150 kΩ in the feedback divider. It can be recalculated and adjusted using VOUT = VFB × (R1 + R2)/R2, where VFB = 0.807 V; resistor values must maintain ≥1% tolerance and appropriate power rating.

Does the board implement true output disconnect, and how is it controlled?

Yes-the MP3423 IC integrates a P-channel MOSFET that physically isolates the output from the input when disabled. Disconnection occurs automatically upon EN pin deactivation (<0.4 V) or shutdown due to fault conditions, eliminating reverse current and standby leakage.

What protection features are implemented on the EV3423-G-00A board?

All protections are handled internally by the MP3423: overcurrent protection (OCP) triggers at 9 A switch limit, short-circuit protection (SCP) limits pulse-by-pulse current, overvoltage protection (OVP) clamps at 6.2 V, and thermal shutdown (OTP) activates at ~150 °C junction temperature.

Is external compensation required for stable operation?

No-internal compensation eliminates the need for external compensation components. The MP3423 uses a proprietary transconductance amplifier and type-II compensation network embedded in die, enabling stable loop response across full load and input ranges with only the provided 1.5 µH inductor and 22 µF output capacitors.

Can the board be used with input voltages below 2.8 V?

No-operation below 2.8 V is outside the MP3423's specified minimum input and risks startup failure, unstable regulation, or undervoltage lockout activation. The IC's UVLO threshold is factory-set at 2.5 V typical, but guaranteed operation begins at 2.8 V per datasheet characterization.

What is the purpose of the NC pins (PIN7 and PIN10) on the MP3423 IC mounted on this board?

PIN10 (NC) must be shorted to VIN per schematic note; PIN7 (NC) must remain floating or tied to GND. These pins have no internal connection but require specific handling to ensure signal integrity and avoid parasitic coupling or ESD susceptibility on the QFN-14 package.