Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV3900DK-00F

Overview

EV3900DK-00F from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3900DK high-efficiency boost controller IC, configured to deliver a regulated 25V/2A output from a 10–20V input. It supports lossless current sensing via MOSFET R_DS(on), features 330kHz fixed-frequency current-mode control, and includes cycle-by-cycle current limiting and undervoltage lockout.

For engineers reviewing the EV3900DK-00F datasheet, EV3900DK-00F pinout, EV3900DK-00F application, or EV3900DK-00F equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3900DK-based boost designs in telecom isolated power, TV CCFL generation, and brick module auxiliary supplies - with adjustable feedback, low 10µA shutdown current, and direct R_DS(on) sense option.

Technical Context

The EV3900DK-00F implements the MP3900DK's current-mode PWM architecture with internal 0.8V reference and COMP pin for loop compensation. Its layout integrates a 10µH power inductor (Wurth 74477010), FDS6630 MOSFET, MBRA340T3 Schottky diode, and configurable feedback network (R1=300kΩ, R2=R3=10kΩ) to set V_OUT=25V.

It supports dual current-sense methods: external 20mΩ shunt (R5) or lossless R_DS(on) sensing (via R6/R7 jumper option), with V_ISENSE clamped below 30V. The board operates at 330kHz with 180µA quiescent current and achieves >90% peak efficiency at 2A load.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV3900DK-00F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom isolated power, TV CCFL backlight generation, and brick module auxiliary supply applications requiring stable component supply, fast prototyping turnaround, and validated reference design fidelity.

Supply support for EV3900DK-00F 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, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support infrastructure.

The MP3900DK product line delivers high-efficiency, fixed-frequency boost controllers for medium-power DC-DC conversion in space-constrained, thermally demanding applications such as display power and telecom infrastructure.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported by the EV3900DK-00F?

The board accepts 10–20V DC input, validated across this range with stable 25V/2A output. Operation below 10V triggers undervoltage lockout; above 20V risks overstressing the MP3900DK's 30V V_CC rating and external components like the MBRA340T3 diode and FDS6630 MOSFET.

How is output voltage adjusted on this evaluation board?

V_OUT is set by the R1/R2 feedback divider per V_OUT = V_FB × (1 + R1/R2), where V_FB = 0.8V. R1 is populated with 300kΩ for 25V; replacement values are calculated using this formula and soldered in the R1 footprint. R2 and R3 are both 10kΩ and used in parallel for effective 5kΩ when both installed.

Can the board operate using MOSFET R_DS(on) for current sensing?

Yes - remove 0Ω jumper R6 and install 0Ω resistor R7 to enable R_DS(on) sensing. This configures the MP3900DK to use the FDS6630's intrinsic channel resistance (typ. 28mΩ) instead of the 20mΩ shunt (R5), eliminating sense resistor power loss and PCB area.

What is the purpose of the COMP pin on the EV3900DK-00F?

The COMP pin provides access to the error amplifier output for loop compensation. Pulling COMP low disables the MP3900DK, achieving 10µA shutdown current. External RC networks can be added between COMP and SGND to optimize transient response and stability for custom output capacitor selections.

Which components define the switching frequency and why is it fixed?

The MP3900DK internally sets 330kHz switching frequency; no external timing components are required. This fixed frequency simplifies EMI filter design, ensures consistent gate drive timing, and avoids subharmonic oscillation in current-mode control - critical for stable 25V output under dynamic 2A loads.

Is thermal performance documented for continuous 2A operation?

Yes - the board achieves >90% peak efficiency at 2A with measured temperature rise <25°C on the FDS6630 MOSFET and MP3900DK under 20V input. Layout uses 2oz copper, thermal vias under Q1 and U1, and the Wurth 74477010 inductor rated for 6.2A saturation current.