Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A

Overview

EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MCS1823GQTE series linear Hall-effect current sensor, supporting ±50 A bidirectional DC/AC sensing at 5 V supply, with 40 mV/A typical sensitivity and ±50 A over-current detection trigger, used in motor drive current monitoring and isolated power supply feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A datasheet, EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A pinout, EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A application, or EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of galvanically isolated current measurement, ratiometric/absolute output modes, and OCD response timing under real-world load conditions.

Technical Context

The EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A implements a differential Hall array to reject stray magnetic fields and integrates the MCS1823GQTE-550BRN current sensor in TQFN-12 (3 mm × 3 mm) with primary conductor terminals (IP+, IP−) electrically isolated from signal pins (VCC, GND, VOUT, /OCD).

It supports 5 V supply only, delivers absolute-output VOUT = 2.5 V + 40 mV/A × IP across ±50 A range, and asserts active-low /OCD when primary current exceeds ±50 A with <10% error - all verified per MPS EVB Rev. 1.0 test data.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control validation, isolated DC-DC converter feedback design, and industrial inverter current monitoring requiring stable component supply and fast-turn evaluation support.

Supply support for EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-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 power management ICs, including DC-DC converters, LED drivers, and precision analog sensors.

The MCS1823 product line targets compact, isolated current sensing in space-constrained power systems - designed for accuracy, magnetic immunity, and seamless integration into gate driver and PSU feedback circuits.

FAQ

What is the function of the /OCD pin on the EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A?

The /OCD pin is an open-drain output that goes low when primary current exceeds ±50 A. It requires an external pull-up resistor (R1 = 10 kΩ provided) and responds with <10% trigger error, enabling fast over-current protection in motor drives or inverters without additional comparators.

Can the EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A operate with a 3.3 V supply?

No - this specific variant is configured for 5 V operation only. The "5" in "550BRN" denotes 5 V supply; 3.3 V variants (e.g., EVCS1823-Q-350BRN-00A) use different internal biasing and sensitivity calibration, and mixing supplies risks incorrect VOUT offset and /OCD threshold.

How is galvanic isolation achieved on this evaluation board?

Isolation is inherent to the MCS1823GQTE-550BRN IC: the primary conductor (IP+, IP−) forms a separate copper path physically and electrically isolated from the signal-side pins (VCC, GND, VOUT, /OCD) by internal molding and package structure - no external isolation components are needed.

What does "BRN" signify in the part number EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A?

"BRN" is MPS's internal configuration code indicating bidirectional sensing mode with ratiometric-compatible output architecture (though this variant uses absolute 5 V referencing). It distinguishes the device from unidirectional (e.g., "URN") or purely ratiometric (e.g., "RRN") versions in the same current range.

Is the primary conductor on the EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A rated for continuous 50 A current?

Yes - the board's IP+ and IP− pads are routed with 2 oz copper and thermal relief to sustain ≥50 A RMS continuously. Test data confirms thermal stability and linearity up to ±50 A at 25°C ambient; derating applies above 60°C case temperature per MCS1823 datasheet limits.

Does the EVCS1823-Q-550BRN-00A include decoupling capacitors?

Yes - it includes a 0.1 µF X7R ceramic capacitor (C1, Murata GRM188R71C104KA01D) placed directly at the VCC pin of U1 (MCS1823GQTE) for high-frequency noise suppression, as specified in the Bill of Materials on page 5 of the reference document.