Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV4008-S-00A

Overview

EV4008-S-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP4008GS constant-current WLED controller IC in Boost and SEPIC topologies, supporting 9–28V IC supply, 20–48V PVIN input, 70V max LED string voltage, 350mA regulated LED current, and 180kHz fixed switching frequency for LCD backlighting applications.

For engineers reviewing the EV4008-S-00A datasheet, EV4008-S-00A pinout, EV4008-S-00A application, or EV4008-S-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-brightness LED driver design with integrated OVP, short-LED, short-inductor/diode, overcurrent, and thermal protection under real-world PVIN/VIN/ILED/VLED operating conditions.

Technical Context

The EV4008-S-00A implements a current-mode control architecture using the MP4008GS SOIC-8 controller, which features 280mV ±1.8% accurate feedback reference, leading-edge blanking for current-sense signal integrity, and fast PWM dimming support (100Hz–2kHz). It operates across two independent power domains: 9–28V VIN for IC bias and 20–48V PVIN for the power stage.

Board-level protections include over-voltage protection at 81V, short-LED detection, short-output and short-inductor/diode fault handling, VIN UVLO, and thermal shutdown - all implemented via internal circuitry of the MP4008GS and verified on this PCB layout with discrete MOSFETs (AP18T10AGH, AM4490N), Schottky diode (B2100), and precision current-sense resistors (200mΩ).

Key Specifications

Availability

EV4008-S-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD backlighting development, DC/DC LED driver prototyping, and general illumination system validation requiring stable component supply and pre-validated reference designs.

Supply support for EV4008-S-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 analog semiconductor company specializing in high-performance power management ICs, with core expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP4008 product line delivers high-accuracy constant-current WLED controllers for wide-input industrial and display applications, emphasizing robust fault protection, tight current regulation (±1.8%), and flexible topology support (Boost/SEPIC).

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV4008-S-00A evaluation board?

The EV4008-S-00A is a fully assembled demonstration platform for the MP4008GS WLED controller IC. It validates operation in Boost and SEPIC configurations, delivering regulated 350mA LED current at up to 70V string voltage with 180kHz switching, PWM dimming, and full fault protection - not a standalone production driver.

Which IC does the EV4008-S-00A evaluate, and what package is used?

The board evaluates the MP4008GS, a constant-current WLED controller IC in SOIC-8 package. The schematic shows U1 as MP4008GS, and the Bill of Materials explicitly lists "MP4008GS" with "SO-8" package, confirming physical and functional integration.

Can the EV4008-S-00A drive multiple LED strings simultaneously?

No. The board is configured for a single LED string only, as confirmed by the schematic (one LED+ and LED− terminal pair), test conditions (VLED=70V, ILED=350mA), and description stating "drive a single LED string." Parallel or multi-string operation requires redesign of sensing, feedback, and protection circuits.

What are the required external power supplies for proper operation?

Two isolated DC supplies are mandatory: (1) 9–28V applied to VIN for MP4008GS bias, and (2) 20–48V applied to PVIN for the power stage. These must be powered in sequence per the Quick Start Guide - PVIN first, then VIN - to avoid latch-up or undefined startup behavior.

Does the board support analog dimming, or only PWM dimming?

Only PWM dimming is supported. The documentation specifies connection to the 'PWM' connector with defined logic thresholds (1.5–5V high, 0–0.4V low) and 100Hz–2kHz frequency range. No analog dimming interface (e.g., DC voltage or I²C register control) is present or described in the schematic or test procedures.

Is the EV4008-S-00A agency-certified for safety compliance?

No. The document explicitly states: "the engineering prototype has not been agency approved." Users must employ isolation transformers during AC-powered testing, and the board is intended solely for lab evaluation - not for end-product certification or field deployment without additional safety qualification.