Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EV5461-C-00A

Overview

EV5461-C-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP5461 dual-input, 4-switch integrated buck-boost DC-DC converter. It demonstrates auto-ORing between VIN1 (4.2–5.5 V, 22 V stress-rated) and VIN2 (2.5–5.5 V), fixed 3.3 V output at up to 500 mA, 1.8 MHz PWM switching, and PFM/PWM mode transition - deployed in USB-C cable and VCONN-powered USB device power architectures.

For engineers reviewing the EV5461-C-00A datasheet, EV5461-C-00A pinout, EV5461-C-00A application, or EV5461-C-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of input voltage selection, ORing fault response (<2 µs reverse block), buck-boost regulation across Vin < Vout / Vin > Vout conditions, and thermal/hiccup protection behavior under real load transients.

Technical Context

The EV5461-C-00A implements the MP5461's dual-input power path architecture with integrated N-channel MOSFETs for both ORing switches and buck-boost power stage. It supports automatic input selection via SEL pin logic and STATUS pin feedback, with EN-to-OR_OUT startup delay of 300 µs and active-low enable control.

Board-level design includes 1 µH shielded inductor (DFE252012R-H-1R0M), ceramic input/output capacitors (1 µF/22 µF/10 µF X5R/X6S), and CSP-12 footprint for the MP5461GC IC. Test points and header pins (GNDSENSE, STATUS, SEL, SW1, SW2, EN) provide direct access to critical control and switching nodes.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV5461-C-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB-C cable development, VCONN-powered peripheral qualification, and dual-input power path validation requiring stable component supply and repeatable test conditions.

Supply support for EV5461-C-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 emphasis on DC-DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The EV5461-C-00A belongs to MPS's evaluation board product line, designed specifically to accelerate design-in of the MP5461 buck-boost converter in USB Type-C and portable dual-power-source applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV5461-C-00A evaluation board?

The EV5461-C-00A is a fully assembled demonstration platform for the MP5461 dual-input buck-boost converter. It validates auto-ORing between two input sources, seamless input selection via the SEL pin, and regulated 3.3 V output delivery under buck, boost, and buck-boost operating modes - with all critical waveforms and protections accessible for measurement.

How does input selection work on this board?

Input selection is controlled by the SEL pin: when SEL is low or floating, VIN1 is selected; when SEL is high, VIN2 is selected. The STATUS pin indicates the active input path, and the board includes test points for monitoring OR_OUT node behavior during transitions and fault recovery.

Can the board operate with only one input powered?

Yes - the board functions with either VIN1 or VIN2 powered independently. When only one source is active, the corresponding ORing switch conducts while the other remains off. Reverse current is blocked within 2 µs if the inactive source drops, preventing backfeed and ensuring safe hot-swap capability.

What are the key protection mechanisms demonstrated?

The board demonstrates VIN1 overvoltage shutdown at 5.75 V, hiccup-mode output current limiting, thermal shutdown, and short-circuit protection on the OR_OUT node. All protections are implemented in hardware using the MP5461's internal circuitry and can be observed via oscilloscope waveforms on SW1/SW2 and IL sensing.

Is the MP5461GC IC soldered to the board?

Yes - the MP5461GC is permanently mounted in its CSP-12 package (1.4 mm × 1.8 mm) on the EV5461-C-00A board. The layout follows MPS-recommended thermal and layout guidelines, including dedicated GND planes, optimized power loop routing, and decoupling capacitor placement adjacent to VIN and VOUT pins.

Does the board support efficiency measurement?

Yes - the board includes Kelvin-connected VIN1/VIN2 and VOUT test points, plus sense resistor locations for accurate input/output current measurement. Efficiency vs. load current curves (up to 95% at mid-load) are documented in the reference design report, and the 1 µH inductor and low-ESR ceramic capacitors minimize conduction and switching losses.