Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3509-QV-00A

Overview

EVM3509-QV-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPM3509GQV synchronous step-down Mini-Module regulator, integrating power MOSFETs, inductor, and input/output capacitors. It delivers 0.9A continuous output at 3.3V from a 4–36V input, features forced CCM mode, 2.2MHz fixed switching frequency, and thermal shutdown-designed for rapid validation of automotive-grade DC/DC conversion in space-constrained industrial control systems.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3509-QV-00A datasheet, EVM3509-QV-00A pinout, EVM3509-QV-00A application, or EVM3509-QV-00A equivalent, this board enables functional verification of the MPM3509GQV's load regulation, EN/SYNC interface behavior, power-good signaling, and over-current protection with valley-current detection under real-world line/load transients.

Technical Context

The EVM3509-QV-00A implements a complete buck converter reference design centered on the MPM3509GQV QFN-17 module, which embeds high- and low-side MOSFETs, a shielded inductor, and internal compensation. Input filtering uses four parallel 0.1μF X7R ceramics (CIN1–CIN4) plus a 4.7μF bulk capacitor (C1A), while output stabilization relies on a 47μF X5R ceramic (C2A) and optional external feedback resistors (R1/R2).

Board-level functionality includes enable control via R3 jumper, SYNC signal routing to U1 pin 12, power-good monitoring at U1 pin 10, and valley-current-based OCP triggering with hiccup recovery. The layout follows strict thermal and EMI guidelines, with dedicated VEMI/GND pads for external EMI filter integration.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3509-QV-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment power rails, industrial sensor node DC/DC conversion, and medical imaging subsystems requiring stable component supply and fast evaluation turnaround.

Supply support for EVM3509-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 core expertise in integrated power modules and DC/DC conversion solutions.

The MPM3509 series targets space-constrained, high-reliability applications requiring AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification, such as automotive body electronics and industrial automation controllers where miniaturized, thermally robust power delivery is critical.

FAQ

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

The default output voltage is 3.3 V, established by the onboard resistor divider (R1 = 82 kΩ, R2 = 26.1 kΩ) connected to the FB pin of the MPM3509GQV. This configuration satisfies the internal 0.807 V reference and achieves precise regulation without modification. Adjustments require recalculating R2 using the provided formula and replacing R2 only.

How do I enable/disable the regulator using the EN pin?

To enable the MPM3509GQV, remove jumper R3 and apply ≥1.45 V to the EN pin relative to GND; to disable, drive EN ≤1.0 V. The board includes no pull-up/pull-down on EN by default-external logic or microcontroller GPIO must provide clean TTL-compatible control with sufficient current drive.

Can the switching frequency be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes-the MPM3509GQV supports frequency synchronization via its SYNC pin (U1 pin 12). An external clock signal between 450 kHz and 2.2 MHz, referenced to GND and AC-coupled if necessary, aligns the internal oscillator's rising edge to the external clock's rising edge, reducing system-level EMI through deterministic timing.

What input capacitance is recommended for stable operation?

The board uses five input capacitors: one 4.7 μF (C1A) and four 0.1 μF (CIN1–CIN4) X7R ceramics. For VIN ≥24 V or cable lengths >0.5 m, MPS recommends adding a ≥10 μF low-ESR electrolytic or polymer capacitor at the VIN/GND terminals to dampen input impedance peaks and prevent OCP false triggering during load steps.

Does the board include EMI mitigation provisions?

Yes-the board reserves dedicated VEMI and GND pads on the bottom layer for mounting external EMI filters (e.g., ferrite beads + capacitors). These connect between the input source and VIN, improving conducted emissions performance without modifying the core regulator layout or compromising thermal integrity.

Is the MPM3509GQV on this board AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes-the MPM3509GQV variant used on EVM3509-QV-00A is rated for AEC-Q100 Grade 1 (−40°C to +125°C ambient), making it suitable for automotive applications including body control modules and ADAS sensor supplies where extended temperature reliability is mandatory.