Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV4561DQ-00A

Overview

EV4561DQ-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is a fully assembled and tested evaluation board for the MP4561 step-down DC/DC converter IC, designed to demonstrate 3.3V @ 1.5A output from 8–55V input using integrated 300mΩ MOSFET, current-mode control, and external soft-start. It operates at 500kHz switching frequency and supports adjustable output down to 0.8V.

For engineers reviewing the EV4561DQ-00A datasheet, EV4561DQ-00A pinout, EV4561DQ-00A application, or EV4561DQ-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-voltage buck conversion in automotive, industrial, and battery-powered systems - with verified thermal layout, BOM traceability, and EN/SS/FREQ/COMP signal access points.

Technical Context

The EV4561DQ-00A implements the MP4561's current-mode control architecture to deliver fast transient response and stable loop behavior across 8–55V input. Its fixed 3.3V output uses R4 (40.2kΩ) and R6 (127kΩ) feedback divider, referencing 0.8V FB threshold.

Board-level features include UVLO preset at 6V via R1/R2 divider, EN logic-level interface (1.6V turn-on / 1.2V turn-off), and BST capacitor support for high-side gate drive. The 10µH power inductor (SD8350-100-R) and 22µF/16V ceramic output capacitor are optimized for 1.5A continuous load at 500kHz.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV4561DQ-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-voltage power conversion, automotive subsystems, and industrial embedded power design requiring stable component supply and validated reference performance.

Supply support for EV4561DQ-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 MP4561 product line targets high-input-voltage buck regulation in space-constrained, thermally demanding applications - delivering integrated power FETs, current-mode control, and robust UVLO/EN functionality for automotive and industrial power rails.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported by the EV4561DQ-00A?

The board accepts 8V to 55V DC input, as confirmed by its UVLO threshold (6V falling edge) and MP4561's rated 4.5–55V operation. Input filtering uses two 2.2µF/100V X7R ceramics (C1/C2), enabling stable startup and ripple suppression across the full range.

How is output voltage set and adjusted on this evaluation board?

Output is fixed at 3.3V using R4 (40.2kΩ) and R6 (127kΩ) to set V_FB = 0.8V. To adjust, replace R6 per formula: R6 = (V_OUT/0.8 − 1) × 40.2kΩ. Compensation components must be recalculated per MP4561 datasheet Section 8.2 when changing V_OUT.

Does the EV4561DQ-00A support enable and soft-start functions?

Yes: EN pin accepts 1.6V (min) logic-high to activate regulation and <1.2V to disable. Soft-start is implemented externally via SS pin capacitor (C5 = 100nF), controlling ramp rate of internal reference to limit inrush current during startup.

What is the purpose of the BST and SW pins on the MP4561 IC used in this board?

BST (bootstrap) connects to SW through a 100nF capacitor (C5) to generate gate-drive voltage for the internal high-side MOSFET. SW (switch node) carries high-frequency pulsed current between the inductor (L1) and internal FET - routed with tight copper pour and minimal loop area for EMI control.

Why is the EV4561DQ-00A marked "Not Recommended for New Designs"?

MPS explicitly states this status in documentation due to the newer EVBL4572-QB-00A evaluation board replacing it - offering enhanced features including higher 2MHz switching, improved efficiency, and updated layout for MP4572. Legacy use remains valid for existing MP4561 designs.

Can the EV4561DQ-00A be used to evaluate other MP4561 variants like MP4561DJ?

Yes: MP4561DQ and MP4561DJ share identical electrical specifications, pinout (QFN10), and functional block diagram. The board's layout and BOM are compatible with all MP4561 suffix variants, as confirmed by MPS schematic reuse and package footprint alignment.