Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVKT-8867

Overview

EVKT-8867 from Monolithic Power Systems is a complete evaluation kit for the MP8867GLE 8A synchronous step-down converter, enabling rapid I²C-based configuration and performance validation of output voltage (1V), switching frequency, slew rate, PFM mode, and system enable/status reporting under 4.5V–17V input conditions.

For engineers reviewing the EVKT-8867 datasheet, EVKT-8867 pinout, EVKT-8867 application, or EVKT-8867 equivalent, this kit supports hands-on evaluation of digital power management in industrial DC/DC design, embedded power subsystem characterization, and I²C-controlled buck converter prototyping with real-time register access via MPS GUI.

Technical Context

The EVKT-8867 integrates two hardware modules: EV8867-LE-00A (MP8867GLE evaluation board) and EVKT-USBI2C-02 (USB-to-I²C interface). It operates across 4.5V–17V input, delivers 1V/8A output, and relies on MPS Virtual Bench Pro GUI for register-level control of VSEL, System1, and status bits (OC, OTEW, OT, PG).

No onboard nonvolatile memory retains settings; all I²C modifications-including output voltage, slew rate, switching frequency, and PFM enable-are volatile and reset on power cycle. Communication uses standard I²C protocol at 100 kHz or 400 kHz, with slave address configurable via hardware jumpers per MP8867 datasheet.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVKT-8867 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, embedded DC/DC subsystem development, and digital PMIC qualification requiring stable component supply and full I²C configurability.

Supply support for EVKT-8867 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, with core expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and motor drivers for industrial, computing, and automotive applications.

The MP8867 product line targets digitally programmable, high-current buck converters for space-constrained systems requiring precise I²C-controlled regulation, fast transient response, and thermal robustness in 4.5V–17V input environments.

FAQ

Does EVKT-8867 retain I²C configuration after power cycling?

No. All register changes made via the MPS I²C GUI-including output voltage, slew rate, switching frequency, and PFM mode-are volatile and reset to factory defaults when the EVB is powered down. The MP8867GLE lacks internal EEPROM or OTP memory for persistent settings.

What software is required to operate EVKT-8867?

The official MPS I²C GUI software is mandatory. It is freely downloadable from monolithicpower.com/i2c-tool.html and supports Windows XP, 7, or later with .NET Framework 4.0. The GUI enables real-time register read/write, status monitoring (OC, OT, PG), and mode selection without external firmware.

Can EVKT-8867 be used with Linux or macOS?

No. The MPS I²C GUI is Windows-only and depends on Windows-specific USBXpress drivers for EVKT-USBI2C-02. No official Linux/macOS driver or GUI version is provided by MPS, and third-party I²C tools cannot access MP8867's proprietary register map or status decoding.

What is the role of EVKT-USBI2C-02 in this kit?

EVKT-USBI2C-02 serves as the physical bridge between the host PC and MP8867GLE evaluation board. It converts USB commands into I²C transactions, supports standard I²C speeds (100/400 kHz), and provides galvanic isolation and level translation to protect both PC and EVB during development.

Is the 1V output adjustable via I²C on EVKT-8867?

No. Although the underlying MP8867 supports I²C-adjustable VOUT via VSEL register, the EV8867-LE-00A board is configured for fixed 1V output. The GUI reads VSEL but does not permit modification-hardware feedback resistors are preset, and no external DAC or resistor network is provided for dynamic adjustment.

What troubleshooting steps apply if the GUI shows "EVB is Disconnected"?

Verify physical connections: SCL, SDA, and GND must be correctly wired from EVKT-USBI2C-02 to EV8867-LE-00A per Figure 6; confirm USBXpress driver installation (not CyUSB); ensure VIN is applied within 4.5V–17V before launching GUI; and check that the MP8867's EN pin is asserted via jumper or external signal.