Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVL3435-L-00A

Overview

EVL3435-L-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MP3435 synchronous boost converter IC, demonstrating a 600kHz fixed-frequency, high-efficiency DC-DC conversion solution delivering up to 12V/19A output from a 3V–10V input, with integrated 10mΩ LS-FET and 15mΩ HS-FET, input disconnect, and thermal shutdown protection - used for rapid validation of power architecture in portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the EVL3435-L-00A datasheet, EVL3435-L-00A pinout, EVL3435-L-00A application, or EVL3435-L-00A equivalent, this board enables hands-on characterization of MP3435's efficiency, load regulation, startup/shutdown behavior, short-circuit recovery, and compensation tuning under real-world VIN/VOUT conditions.

Technical Context

The EVL3435-L-00A implements the MP3435GL QFN-20 (3mm×4mm) IC in a fully assembled, tested layout optimized for low-noise 600kHz switching, featuring external soft-start (R2/C5), adjustable UVLO (R5/R6), and configurable current sensing via four parallel 18mΩ resistors (R4A–R4D) or internal sense path.

It supports dual operation modes: with or without the input MOSFET (Q1), enabling comparative evaluation of efficiency and thermal rise across input voltage ranges (3.3V–8.4V) and load currents (0–6A), while maintaining stable 12V output with ≤0.15% load regulation and <1µA shutdown current.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVL3435-L-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook power subsystem validation, Thunderbolt interface auxiliary rail design, and portable POS system DC-DC development requiring stable component supply and repeatable test conditions.

Supply support for EVL3435-L-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 over two decades of expertise in DC-DC converters, LED drivers, and motor drivers for consumer, industrial, and automotive markets.

The EVL3435-L-00A belongs to MPS's evaluation board product line, designed specifically to accelerate adoption of their MP3435 synchronous boost converter by providing production-ready layout, validated BOM, and comprehensive test data for system-level power design.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported on the EVL3435-L-00A?

The board is validated for 3V to 10V DC input, matching the MP3435's operational range. It delivers stable 12V output across this span, with efficiency curves published for 3.3V, 4.2V, 6V, and 8.4V inputs - critical for battery-powered applications where voltage droop must be accommodated.

How do I adjust the output voltage from the default 12V?

VOUT is set by resistor R2 per VOUT = 1.225V × (1 + 300kΩ/R2). Replacing the default 34kΩ R2 allows precise targeting of other outputs: e.g., 30kΩ yields ~12.5V, 43.2kΩ yields ~11.5V. The FB node (U1 Pin 12) remains accessible for probing during adjustment.

Can the EVL3435-L-00A operate without the input MOSFET Q1?

Yes - Q1 can be bypassed by shorting its drain to source and grounding the GATE pin (via R7), enabling evaluation of MP3435's internal switch-only performance. Test data shows higher efficiency at light loads but reduced peak current capability compared to full-path operation.

What is the purpose of the four parallel 18mΩ resistors (R4A–R4D)?

They form a 4.5mΩ total current-sense shunt for accurate OCP setting and efficiency measurement. Their parallel configuration minimizes parasitic inductance and thermal drift, supporting reliable 19A current limit validation and dynamic load transient analysis.

Does the board include thermal monitoring features?

No dedicated thermal sensor is onboard, but the board layout exposes U1's thermal pad and Q1's PowerPAK 1212-8 package for direct IR thermography or thermocouple attachment. Published case temperature rise plots provide baseline thermal performance under defined load and airflow conditions.

Is the MP3435GL IC socketed or soldered on the EVL3435-L-00A?

The MP3435GL is permanently soldered in the QFN-20 (3mm×4mm) footprint. This ensures signal integrity and thermal coupling required for high-current boost operation, and aligns with MPS's recommendation for production-level reliability validation.