Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3424-G-00A

Overview

EV3424-G-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP3424 synchronous step-up converter, supporting 2.8–4.2V input, 5V/3.1A output, programmable current limit up to 9.5A, 580kHz fixed-frequency operation, and true output disconnect via integrated P-channel MOSFET - used for validating USB power delivery in battery-backed portable systems.

For engineers reviewing the EV3424-G-00A datasheet, EV3424-G-00A pinout, EV3424-G-00A application, or EV3424-G-00A equivalent, key selection considerations include input voltage range (2.8–4.2V), output disconnect capability, programmable average load current limit, efficiency at light-to-full load (up to 97%), and compatibility with 1.5μH inductors and 22μF ceramic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The EV3424-G-00A implements a current-mode, synchronous boost topology centered on the MP3424GG IC in 2mm×2mm QFN-14 package. It features internal compensation, soft-start, and a fixed 580kHz switching frequency enabling compact external component selection including a single 1.5μH shielded inductor and dual 22μF/16V X7R ceramic output capacitors.

Board-level functionality includes enable-controlled startup (EN threshold: 1.2V high / 0.4V low), inrush current limiting, cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection, output short-circuit recovery, and thermal shutdown. Output voltage is set to 5V by default using R1=1MΩ and R2=191kΩ, with VFB = 0.805V.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3424-G-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB power bank validation, battery-powered accessory design, and embedded 5V rail generation requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping support, and production-ready reference performance data.

Supply support for EV3424-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 core expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP3424 product line targets portable and battery-operated applications requiring high-efficiency, small-footprint boost conversion with robust protection and output isolation during shutdown.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported on the EV3424-G-00A board?

The board operates with a verified input range of 2.8V to 4.2V, matching typical single-cell Li-ion battery discharge profiles. Operation below 2.8V is not guaranteed; startup is functional down to 2V per MP3424 specification, but board-level testing confirms stable regulation only from 2.8V.

How is output voltage adjusted on this evaluation board?

Output voltage is set by resistor divider R1 (1MΩ) and R2 (191kΩ) on the FB pin, yielding 5V with VFB = 0.805V. To change VOUT, replace R2 using the formula VOUT = VFB × (R1 + R2)/R2; layout supports 0603 footprint replacement without modification.

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

Yes - the MP3424 integrates a P-channel MOSFET between input and output. During shutdown (EN = low), output voltage drops to <10mV within 10ms and remains isolated from VIN, confirmed by oscilloscope measurement of VOUT decay and absence of leakage current under no-load conditions.

What inductor and capacitor values are used, and why?

The board uses Wurth 744311150 (1.5μH, 6.6mΩ DCR, 14A Isat) and four 22μF/16V X7R ceramics (total 44μF). This combination ensures <100mV peak-to-peak ripple at 3.1A, maintains stability across temperature, and avoids saturation under peak switch current up to 9.5A.

Can the EN pin be used for sequencing or controlled turn-on?

Yes - EN accepts logic-level signals: drive >1.2V to enable, <0.4V to disable. The pin has 100nA leakage and supports clean, jitter-free startup with <2ms delay from EN assertion to regulated VOUT, verified under 2Ω dynamic load transients.

Is short-circuit protection recoverable without cycling power?

Yes - the board enters hiccup mode upon sustained short, reducing average power dissipation. Recovery occurs automatically within 1ms after fault removal, confirmed by oscilloscope capture of VOUT re-stabilization and IL waveform resumption without manual reset or power interruption.