Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3426-L-00A

Overview

EV3426-L-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3426 6A, 35V current-mode boost converter IC, featuring programmable switching frequency (300kHz–2MHz), adjustable UVLO, soft-start, and thermal shutdown. It delivers up to 12V/2A output from 6–9V input using a 4.7μH inductor and ceramic capacitors on a 2.5″×2.5″ QFN-based layout.

For engineers reviewing the EV3426-L-00A datasheet, EV3426-L-00A pinout, EV3426-L-00A application, or EV3426-L-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3426 performance in telecom power supplies, microphone bias generation, automotive auxiliary rails, and compact DC-DC designs requiring fast transient response and low EMI.

Technical Context

The EV3426-L-00A implements the MP3426's full feature set: internal 6A/90mΩ/45V MOSFET, external compensation network for loop tuning, and programmable soft-start via capacitor C9. Input voltage range is 3.2V–22V, supporting battery-backed and industrial mid-rail inputs.

Board-level design includes precision feedback resistors (R2=178kΩ, R3=20kΩ) setting VOUT=12V (VFB=1.225V), and R5=66.5kΩ configuring fSW≈600kHz per FSET=23×R5⁻⁰·⁸⁶. D1 (SS5P3 Schottky) provides low-loss output rectification with 30V/5A rating.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3426-L-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom power supply validation, audio bias circuit development, and automotive auxiliary rail prototyping requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and documented reference design fidelity.

Supply support for EV3426-L-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 MP3426 product line targets high-efficiency, space-constrained boost applications demanding programmable frequency, robust protection, and minimal external components - especially in portable, telecom, and automotive subsystems.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage and how is it set?

The EV3426-L-00A is factory-configured for 12V output using R2=178kΩ and R3=20kΩ, based on the MP3426's 1.225V feedback reference. The formula VOUT = VFB × (1 + R2/R3) yields exactly 12.0V. Adjusting R2 changes output voltage linearly while maintaining regulation accuracy.

How do I change the switching frequency?

Frequency is set by resistor R5 using the formula FSET (MHz) = 23 × R5⁻⁰·⁸⁶, where R5 is in kΩ. With R5=66.5kΩ, FSET ≈ 0.6MHz. Replace R5 with values between 20kΩ and 200kΩ to achieve 300kHz–2MHz; verify stability with scope measurements on COMP and SW nodes.

Does the board support input voltages outside 6–9V?

Yes - the underlying MP3426 supports 3.2V–22V input, and the EV3426-L-00A layout accommodates this full range. However, thermal and efficiency validation per the Rev.1.0 documentation was performed at 6–9V; operation beyond that requires verifying inductor saturation, diode stress, and thermal rise under actual load conditions.

What type of inductor is used and why?

L1 is Wurth 7443320470: 4.7μH, 15.5A IRMS, 17A Isat, 6.35mΩ DCR. Its high saturation current prevents collapse under 2A load transients, low DCR minimizes conduction loss, and shielded construction reduces EMI coupling - critical for clean boost operation in noise-sensitive audio and telecom systems.

Is the MP3426 IC included and what package does it use?

Yes - the board integrates the MP3426DL variant in a 14-pin 3mm×4mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad. This package enables efficient heat dissipation during sustained 2A output and matches production layout requirements for thermal vias and PCB copper area.

Can I modify the soft-start time?

Yes - soft-start duration is set by capacitor C9 (1.0μF, 25V X5R, 0805). Increasing C9 extends ramp time linearly; decreasing it shortens startup. The MP3426's SS pin draws constant current, so tSS ≈ (C9 × VFB) / ISS, where ISS is internally fixed. Use C9 values between 0.47μF and 4.7μF for typical lab tuning.