Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV4433-L-00A

Overview

EV4433-L-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully assembled and tested evaluation board for the MPQ4433GL synchronous step-down converter IC, delivering 3.3V/3A output from a 3.3V–36V input range. It implements AAM (Advanced Asynchronous Modulation) mode, programmable 350kHz–2.5MHz switching frequency, and features power-good indication, selectable forced CCM/AAM operation, and low-quiescent-current sleep mode (10μA).

For engineers reviewing the EV4433-L-00A datasheet, EV4433-L-00A pinout, EV4433-L-00A application, or EV4433-L-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MPQ4433GL performance in automotive and industrial DC/DC designs-particularly where wide-input-range, light-load efficiency, and EMI-controlled layout are critical.

Technical Context

The EV4433-L-00A implements the MPQ4433GL QFN-16 (3mm × 4mm) controller with integrated 90mΩ high-side and 40mΩ low-side MOSFETs, supporting 80ns minimum on-time and valley-current overcurrent protection with hiccup recovery. Its feedback network uses a 41.2kΩ/13kΩ resistor divider to set 3.3V output, and soft-start is configured via a 4.7nF capacitor yielding ~700μs ramp time.

Input EMC filtering includes parallel 10μF + 0.1μF ceramics (C1A–C1D), while output filtering uses dual 22μF X7R ceramics (C2A/C2B) and a 10μH shielded inductor (XAL6060-103MEB). Sync functionality supports external clock synchronization (350kHz–2.5MHz) with phase selection (in-phase or 180° out-of-phase) and mode control (CCM vs. AAM) via logic level on the SYNC pin.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV4433-L-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment power rails, industrial sensor node DC/DC conversion, and embedded control module supply design requiring stable component supply and proven reference layout fidelity.

Supply support for EV4433-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, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MPQ4433GL product line targets automotive-grade (AEC-Q100 Grade-1) and industrial power applications demanding wide-input operation, low-light-load quiescent current, and EMI-compliant layout-exactly mirrored in the EV4433-L-00A evaluation platform.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the EV4433-L-00A evaluation board?

The EV4433-L-00A is a ready-to-use hardware platform designed exclusively to evaluate the MPQ4433GL synchronous buck converter. It provides verified thermal performance, EMI-optimized layout, and factory-set 3.3V/3A output, enabling immediate functional validation and design-in acceleration without custom PCB development.

Can the output voltage be adjusted on this board?

Yes-the output voltage is set by an external resistor divider (RFB1 = 41.2kΩ, RFB2 = 13kΩ for 3.3V). To change VOUT, replace RFB2 per the formula VOUT = 0.8V × (1 + RFB1/RFB2); recommended values for 1.8V, 2.5V, 5V, and 12V are documented in the quick start guide.

How do I configure forced CCM versus AAM mode?

Drive the SYNC pin high before startup to enable forced continuous conduction mode (CCM); leave SYNC floating or pull it low to default to AAM (Advanced Asynchronous Modulation) for improved light-load efficiency. No firmware or register writes are required-mode selection is purely hardware-based.

Is the EV4433-L-00A still in active production?

No-EV4433-L-00A is End-of-Life (EOL) as stated in the official documentation. Customers should migrate to the replacement part EVQ4433-L-00A, which maintains identical functionality and layout compatibility while incorporating updated MPQ4433GL silicon revisions and enhanced qualification.

What input filtering components are included for EMI suppression?

The board integrates a two-stage input filter: four 10μF/50V and 0.1μF/50V ceramic capacitors (C1A–C1D) in parallel across VIN–GND, plus a dedicated 0.1μF damping capacitor (CIN6) placed near the input connector to suppress LC resonance above 24V input-per MPS layout guidance.

Does the board support external clock synchronization?

Yes-the SYNC pin accepts a 350kHz–2.5MHz external clock signal. When enabled, the internal oscillator locks to the external source with selectable phase alignment (0° or 180°). The external clock must exceed the R_FREQ-set frequency by ≥250kHz to ensure reliable locking.

What is the role of the "PG" pin on the MPQ4433GL, and how is it implemented on this board?

The PG (Power Good) pin is an open-drain output that asserts high when VOUT is within ±10% of regulation. On EV4433-L-00A, it connects directly to a test point and can drive external monitoring circuitry or microcontroller interrupt lines without additional pull-up components.