Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3550E-GLE-00A

Overview

EVM3550E-GLE-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is a demonstration board built around the MPM3550E non-isolated DC-DC power module, delivering 5A continuous output at adjustable 1.0–12.0V from a 4.5–36V input. It integrates controller, MOSFETs, inductor, and support passives in a 12×12×3.82 mm LGA package, featuring power good indication, remote enable control, and full protection suite including non-latch OCP/SCP/UVP/UVLO and thermal shutdown. Used for rapid validation of POL supplies in automotive infotainment head units.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3550E-GLE-00A datasheet, EVM3550E-GLE-00A pinout, EVM3550E-GLE-00A application, or EVM3550E-GLE-00A equivalent, this evaluation board enables fast functional verification of the MPM3550E module's transient response, efficiency across input voltage ranges (5V–36V), output voltage adjustability, and integrated protection behavior under real load conditions.

Technical Context

The EVM3550E-GLE-00A implements a synchronous buck topology with internal high- and low-side MOSFETs, fixed 0.815V reference, and feed-forward-controlled switching frequency. Input voltage directly modulates on-time to maintain stable frequency across 4.5–36V input range, achieving ultra-fast transient response via optimized control loop and integrated 6.8 µH inductor with 13A saturation current.

It supports external output voltage programming via FB resistor dividers, configurable UVLO threshold using EN-to-GND resistors, and provides VPG signal synchronized to output regulation status. All protections - over-current, short-circuit, under-voltage lockout, and thermal shutdown - are fully autonomous and auto-recovering without latching.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3550E-GLE-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment validation, industrial PLC power rail testing, and telecom POL prototyping requiring stable component supply and rapid design iteration.

Supply support for EVM3550E-GLE-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 DC-DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The EVM3550E-GLE-00A belongs to MPS's evaluation board product line for its MPM3550E power module family, designed specifically to accelerate adoption of compact, high-efficiency, integrated POL solutions in space-constrained applications.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the EVM3550E-GLE-00A?

This is a fully assembled demonstration board for the MPM3550E DC-DC power module. It enables engineers to evaluate electrical performance-including efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and protection features-without designing a custom PCB. It ships with default 3.3V output and includes test points, jumpers, and layout-optimized decoupling.

Can I adjust the output voltage, and how?

Yes. The board supports output adjustment from 1.0V to 12.0V using external resistors on the FB node. For voltages below 3.3V, connect RFB1 between FB and VOUT; for voltages above 3.3V, connect RFB2 between FB and GND. Formulas and example values (e.g., 63.4 kΩ for 2.5V, 14.3 kΩ for 5V) are provided in the reference design guide.

Does the board include input/output capacitors and inductor?

Yes. It integrates all critical passive components: 10 µF input ceramic capacitor (GRM32ER71H106KA12L), 22 µF output ceramic capacitor (GRM32ER71C226KEA8L), and a 6.8 µH shielded inductor (74437346068) with 13A saturation current and 11.4 mΩ DCR - matching the MPM3550E's internal integration philosophy.

How do I enable or disable the regulator?

Drive the EN pin above 1.25V to enable regulation or below 0.86V to disable it. The board includes an onboard jumper (JP1) to tie EN to VIN for always-on operation, or to route it to an external control signal. Internal soft-start is fixed and non-adjustable.

Is the board compliant with automotive EMC standards?

Yes. The MPM3550E module underlying this board is CISPR25 Class 5 compliant. The EVM3550E-GLE-00A layout follows recommended practices - including ground plane integrity, input/output filtering, and thermal pad connection - to maintain that compliance during evaluation.

What is the physical size and mounting configuration?

The board measures 6.4 cm × 6.4 cm × 1.3 cm (2.52″ × 2.52″ × 0.51″) with 4 × 3.2 mm mounting holes at corners. It uses standard 0.1″ pitch headers for VIN, VOUT, GND, EN, and VPG signals, enabling direct connection to lab power supplies and oscilloscopes without adapters.