Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVL3438-TL-00A

Overview

EVL3438-TL-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is a 2-layer, 5.1cm × 5.1cm × 0.6cm evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MP3438 synchronous boost converter IC-capable of 12V output from 3–10V input, delivering up to 1.2A load current with 91.2% efficiency at 3.3V_IN/12V_OUT/0.3A, and featuring constant-off-time (COT) control and automatic pass-through mode.

For engineers reviewing the EVL3438-TL-00A datasheet, EVL3438-TL-00A pinout, EVL3438-TL-00A application, or EVL3438-TL-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MP3438 performance in low-input, high-step-up DC/DC applications including portable instrumentation, battery-powered sensors, and USB-C PD auxiliary rails.

Technical Context

The EVL3438-TL-00A implements the MP3438GTL in SOT583 package, configured for fixed 12V output using a 750kΩ/30kΩ resistor divider on FB, with BST capacitor bootstrapping the high-side MOSFET gate drive. It integrates a 3.3μH MPL-AL4020-3R3 inductor and optimized ceramic input/output capacitance (1μF C3, 4.7μF C1, dual 0.1μF + 10μF C2 stack).

Board-level design supports COT-based transient response testing, pass-through mode verification above V_OUT−SET, and thermal characterization at 30°C ambient with no forced airflow-validated across VIN = 3V to 8.4V and I_OUT up to 1.2A per load capability curves.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVL3438-TL-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical monitors, industrial IoT sensor nodes, and USB-C powered accessories requiring stable component supply and fast DC/DC validation cycles.

Supply support for EVL3438-TL-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 core expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and motor drivers for consumer, industrial, and automotive markets.

The EVL3438-TL-00A belongs to MPS's evaluation board product line, developed specifically to accelerate adoption of their integrated synchronous boost solutions in space-constrained, battery-fed applications demanding high light-load efficiency and fast transient response.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported on the EVL3438-TL-00A?

The board operates with input voltages from 3 V to 10 V. At VIN = 3 V, maximum output current is 0.3 A; it increases to 1.2 A when VIN ≥ 6.6 V. Input start-up inrush must be limited to <6 A via external circuitry to protect the HS-FET body diode.

How is the 12 V output set and verified?

VOUT is set by the FB resistor divider (R1 = 750 kΩ, R3 = 30 kΩ) per MP3438's internal 0.8 V reference. Output voltage is measured between SENSE_VOUT and GND terminals; typical accuracy is ±1.5% under full load and thermal conditions specified in the test report.

Does the board demonstrate the MP3438's auto-pass-through function?

Yes-the board fully supports automatic pass-through mode. When VIN exceeds VOUT−SET (i.e., >11.2 V), the MP3438 bypasses switching and conducts directly through the internal high-side MOSFET, reducing quiescent current and improving efficiency beyond regulation requirements.

Which inductor is used and why was it selected?

The board uses MPS's MPL-AL4020-3R3 (3.3 μH, 5.2 A saturation current, 34.5 mΩ DCR). This part provides sufficient ISAT margin at peak switch current and low conduction loss, enabling stable operation up to 1.2 A while maintaining thermal rise <15°C at TA = 30°C.

Can the output voltage be adjusted, and how?

Yes-VOUT is adjustable by changing the FB resistor divider. Replacing R3 (30 kΩ) alters the feedback ratio; for example, 20 kΩ yields ~16 V output. The board includes footprint space for alternative resistors, and the MP3438 datasheet provides the exact calculation: VOUT = 0.8 V × (1 + R1/R3).

What measurement points are provided for efficiency and ripple analysis?

The board features dedicated test points: VIN (between input terminals), VOUT (SENSE_VOUT to GND), SW (switch node), and IL (inductor current via sense resistor). These enable simultaneous oscilloscope capture of VOUT ripple, switching waveforms, and load transients per the Quick Start Guide.