Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVKT-8869S

Overview

EVKT-8869S from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation kit for the MP8869S synchronous step-down converter IC, enabling rapid functional validation and I²C-based parameter tuning of output voltage (1V), current limit (12A continuous / 15A peak), slew rate, OVP/OCP modes, and telemetry monitoring in lab and design-in environments.

For engineers reviewing the EVKT-8869S datasheet, EVKT-8869S pinout, EVKT-8869S application, or EVKT-8869S equivalent, this kit supports Windows XP/7+ host systems, requires USB connectivity and ≥22.2MB disk space, and delivers real-time VOUT/IOUT telemetry via MPS I²C GUI with non-volatile register reset on power cycle.

Technical Context

The EVKT-8869S integrates two hardware modules: the EV8869S-L-00A evaluation board hosting the MP8869SGL IC, and the EVKT-USBI2C-02 USB-to-I²C interface providing PMBus-compatible communication. It operates across 2.85V–18V input and delivers regulated 1V output at up to 12A continuous load.

Configuration is performed exclusively via I²C registers (VSEL, System1, System2) using the MPS I²C GUI software. All settings-including output voltage, current limit, soft-stop, PFM mode, and PG deglitch time-are volatile and reset to defaults upon power-down.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVKT-8869S is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converter evaluation, power management IC validation, and digital PMBus-based power system prototyping requiring stable component supply and full toolchain support.

Supply support for EVKT-8869S 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 expertise in integrated DC-DC converters, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The EVKT-8869S belongs to MPS's digital power evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate adoption of I²C/PMBus-configurable buck converters in compute, networking, and industrial applications.

FAQ

Does the EVKT-8869S retain configuration after power cycling?

No. All I²C register settings-including output voltage, current limit, and mode selections-are volatile and reset to factory defaults when the EVB is powered down. Users must reapply configurations via the MPS I²C GUI on each power-up.

What software is required to operate the EVKT-8869S?

The official MPS I²C GUI software is mandatory. It is freely downloadable from monolithicpower.com/i2c-tool.html, requires Windows XP/7+ and .NET Framework 4.0, and provides full read/write access to the MP8869S's VSEL, System1, and System2 registers.

Which hardware components are included in the EVKT-8869S kit?

The kit contains one EV8869S-L-00A evaluation board (MP8869SGL-based), one EVKT-USBI2C-02 USB-to-I²C interface module, one USB cable, and one ribbon cable for SCL/SDA/GND connection between modules.

Can the EVKT-8869S be used with Linux or macOS hosts?

No. The MPS I²C GUI software is Windows-only and has no native Linux or macOS version. Operation requires a Windows PC (XP or later) with a functional USB port and installed USBXpress driver for the EVKT-USBI2C-02 interface.

What is the physical size of the EV8869S-L-00A evaluation board?

The EV8869S-L-00A board measures 8.5 cm × 8.5 cm. Its compact square form factor supports benchtop evaluation while accommodating thermal management for 12A continuous operation under forced-air or ambient conditions.

Is telemetry data (VOUT/IOUT) accessible in real time?

Yes. The MP8869S provides real-time output voltage and output current monitoring over I²C. The MPS I²C GUI displays these telemetry values continuously once connected and configured, enabling dynamic load profiling and fault analysis.