Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3506A-QV-00A

Overview

EVM3506A-QV-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPM3506A synchronous step-down Mini-Module regulator, delivering 3.3V/600mA output from a 4.5–36V input, featuring integrated inductor, MOSFETs, and capacitors in a QFN-19 (3×5×1.6mm) package, used for rapid validation of compact DC/DC power designs in space-constrained industrial and automotive systems.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3506A-QV-00A datasheet, EVM3506A-QV-00A pinout, EVM3506A-QV-00A application, or EVM3506A-QV-00A equivalent, this board enables fast functional verification of the MPM3506A's fixed 3.3V output, 1.15MHz switching frequency, power-good signaling, and valley-current OCP under real load and line regulation conditions.

Technical Context

The EVM3506A-QV-00A implements a complete buck converter reference design using the MPM3506A IC module, which integrates high- and low-side MOSFETs, a shielded power inductor, input/output capacitors, and internal compensation. It supports external synchronization (800kHz–2MHz) and operates in power-save mode at light loads to maintain efficiency down to 1mA.

Board-level features include EN/SYNC pin access, FB resistor divider (R1/R2) for optional VOUT adjustment, PG signal monitoring, and dedicated VEMI input for enhanced EMI filtering-enabling direct evaluation of thermal performance, transient response, and noise suppression without custom layout effort.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3506A-QV-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial controls, automotive subsystems, and medical imaging equipment requiring stable component supply, quick-turn power validation, and repeatable lab characterization.

Supply support for EVM3506A-QV-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 analog and power ICs, with expertise in integrated power modules, DC/DC converters, and motor drivers for industrial, automotive, and computing applications.

The MPM3506A product line delivers fully integrated, thermally optimized step-down power modules targeting space- and resource-constrained applications where PCB area, thermal management, and time-to-test are critical constraints.

FAQ

What input voltage range does the EVM3506A-QV-00A support?

The board supports 4.5V to 36V DC input, matching the MPM3506A module's rated operating range. This allows testing across 12V and 24V industrial buses, automotive cold-crank (down to 4.5V), and higher-voltage telecom supplies without external regulators or level-shifting circuitry.

Can the output voltage be adjusted, and how?

Yes-the board ships with R1 (82kΩ) and R2 (26.1kΩ) forming a fixed 3.3V divider on the FB pin, but the FB node is accessible via test points. Replacing R1/R2 allows adjustment from 0.8V to 36V (per MPM3506A spec), with recommended minimum top-resistor value of 100kΩ for stability.

How is synchronization implemented on this evaluation board?

The EN/SYNC pin (U1 Pin 13) accepts an external clock signal (800kHz–2MHz) referenced to GND. When driven, it forces the MPM3506A's internal oscillator to align its rising edge with the external clock, enabling deterministic switching in multi-rail systems and EMI reduction through frequency spreading.

Does the board provide access to the Power Good (PG) signal?

Yes-PG is brought out to a test point (U1 Pin 17) and pulled up via a 100kΩ resistor (R4). The open-drain signal asserts high when VOUT is within ±7.5% of regulation and de-asserts during fault or startup, enabling system-level power sequencing and fault logging.

What thermal performance can be expected during continuous 600mA operation?

At 24V input and 3.3V/600mA output (η ≈ 88%), the MPM3506A module on this board reaches ~65°C case temperature in still air per MPS test data (Rev.1.0, p.4). No heatsink is required, but airflow >1m/s reduces peak temperature by ~12°C, supporting extended operation in enclosed enclosures.

Are input EMI filtering components included on the board?

The board includes a dedicated VEMI input pad and ground plane for adding external common-mode chokes and Y-capacitors. While C1A/C1B provide basic differential-mode filtering, full EMI compliance (CISPR 25 Class 5) requires external components connected between VEMI and GND as specified in the Quick Start Guide.