Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVL3424A-G-00A

Overview

EVL3424A-G-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3424A synchronous boost converter IC, demonstrating CC/CV operation, output disconnect, and inrush current limiting. It delivers 5V/3.1A from a 2.8–4.2V input, features a fixed 580kHz switching frequency, integrated P-channel output disconnect MOSFET, and supports configurable average load current limit with up to 97% efficiency.

For engineers reviewing the EVL3424A-G-00A datasheet, EVL3424A-G-00A pinout (of its onboard MP3424AGG IC), EVL3424A-G-00A application in portable power delivery, or EVL3424A-G-00A equivalent evaluation platforms, this board provides validated reference design, test-ready layout, and full characterization data including efficiency vs. load, line/load regulation, SCP recovery timing, and startup/shutdown waveforms under real operating conditions.

Technical Context

The EVL3424A-G-00A implements a current-mode, synchronous step-up topology using the MP3424AGG QFN-14 IC. It integrates a P-channel high-side switch for output disconnect during shutdown and uses internal compensation with soft-start to minimize external components.

It operates across 2.8–4.2V input and delivers regulated 5V output with programmable current limit via R3 (100kΩ) and sense resistors R5A/R5B (16mΩ/18mΩ). Inrush current is limited to 270mA linearly, and protection includes OCP, SCP, and OTP - all verified in test reports across 0–3.1A load and 2.8–4.2V input sweeps.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVL3424A-G-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered consumer accessories, USB power supply validation, optical module power staging, and portable energy storage system prototyping requiring stable component supply and repeatable test conditions.

Supply support for EVL3424A-G-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, with expertise in DC/DC conversion, LED drivers, and motor control solutions.

The MP3424A product line targets compact, high-efficiency boost converters for space-constrained battery-powered systems, emphasizing output disconnect, inrush control, and robust protection - directly reflected in the EVL3424A-G-00A's validated reference design.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage and how is it set?

The EVL3424A-G-00A is factory-configured for 5 V output using R1 = 1 MΩ and R2 = 191 kΩ, per the feedback equation V_OUT = V_FB × (R1 + R2)/R2 where V_FB = 0.805 V. Output voltage can be adjusted by replacing R2 while maintaining R1's 1 MΩ value and ensuring resistor tolerance remains ≤1%.

How is output disconnect implemented and verified?

Output disconnect is achieved via the MP3424AGG's integrated P-channel MOSFET between input and output. During shutdown (EN < 0.4 V), the FET turns off, isolating VOUT from VIN. This behavior is confirmed in test waveforms showing <1 µA leakage and full rail collapse on VOUT within 10 ms of EN deactivation.

Which inductor is used and why is it critical?

The board uses the MPS MPL-AL5030-1R5 (1.5 µH, 9.7 mΩ DCR, 12.5 A saturation current). Its low DCR minimizes conduction loss, while high I_SAT ensures stable operation at 3.1 A peak inductor current - essential for sustaining 97% efficiency and avoiding saturation-induced instability or thermal runaway.

Can the current limit be adjusted, and what components control it?

Yes - average load current limit is configured via R3 (100 kΩ) and the current-sense resistor network (R5A = 16 mΩ, R5B = 18 mΩ). The MP3424A measures voltage across these resistors to enforce the limit; changing R3 or the sense resistor values alters the trip threshold, as defined in the MP3424A datasheet's ILIM section.

Does the board support enable control and soft-start? How are they accessed?

Yes - the EN pin (U1 Pin 1) accepts 0–5 V logic-level signals: >1.2 V enables operation, <0.4 V disables it with full output disconnect. Soft-start is internal and fixed (typ. 2 ms); no external components are required. Startup timing and inrush behavior are documented in Figures 7–9 of the evaluation board report.

Are all capacitors and resistors on the board specified for production use?

Yes - the BOM lists Murata GRM32ER71C226KEA8L (22 µF X7R 1210), Yageo RC0603FR-07191KL (191 kΩ), and other AEC-Q200–compatible or industrial-grade passives. All values match MP3424A recommended design guidelines and have been validated for ripple, ESR, and thermal derating across –40°C to +85°C ambient.