Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3606A-QV-00A

Overview

EVM3606A-QV-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation module for the MPM3606A synchronous step-down DC/DC module, designed to demonstrate 0.6A output capability across 4.5V–21V input with integrated inductor and internal 4.9V VCC regulator. It supports adjustable output from 0.8V, features power-good indication, over-current protection with hiccup mode, and thermal shutdown at 150°C - validated for industrial control and space-constrained telecom power rails.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3606A-QV-00A datasheet, EVM3606A-QV-00A pinout, EVM3606A-QV-00A application, or EVM3606A-QV-00A equivalent, this page delivers verified functional context, layout-critical terminal roles, real-world load transient performance, and direct substitution guidance for production-grade DC/DC module evaluation.

Technical Context

The EVM3606A-QV-00A implements a fixed-frequency (1.6–2.4 MHz) synchronous buck topology using internal 100mΩ/50mΩ MOSFETs and a 1µH integrated inductor with 60mΩ DCR. It operates in three modes - advanced asynchronous modulation (AAM), discontinuous conduction (DCM), and continuous conduction (CCM) - automatically transitioning based on load current to maintain efficiency from light-load to full 0.6A output.

Its functional block includes a 0.798V reference error amplifier, internal soft-start (1.6ms), open-drain power-good output with 35µs rising/80µs falling delay, and UVLO with 3.9V rising threshold and 675mV hysteresis. The board routes all critical signals - FB, PG, EN, BST - per MPS layout guidelines to minimize noise coupling and ensure stable regulation under fast load steps.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3606A-QV-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial controls, medical imaging subsystems, and telecom power management requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping validation, and production-ready reference design fidelity.

Supply support for EVM3606A-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 over two decades of leadership in integrated power modules and DC/DC conversion.

The EVM3606A-QV-00A belongs to MPS's evaluation platform series for its MPM3606A module family - engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of compact, high-efficiency, inductor-integrated buck converters for resource-constrained applications.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the EVM3606A-QV-00A evaluation module?

The EVM3606A-QV-00A is a fully assembled, tested PCB that demonstrates the MPM3606A synchronous step-down module in a typical 3.3V/0.6A configuration. It includes all required external components - input/output capacitors, feedback resistors, and pull-up for the PG signal - enabling immediate bench testing, load transient characterization, and thermal profiling without custom layout.

Does the EVM3606A-QV-00A support adjustable output voltages?

Yes - the board uses a 75kΩ/24kΩ resistor divider to set 3.3V output, but the FB pin is accessible via test points and solder jumpers allow reconfiguration for other outputs from 0.8V to 5.5V. The MPM3606A's 0.798V reference and low feedback current (<50nA) ensure accurate scaling with standard 1% resistor values.

How is thermal performance validated on this evaluation board?

The EVM3606A-QV-00A uses a 4-layer PCB with dedicated thermal vias under the QFN20 package (pins 4–6, 7–9, 12–14, 16), 2oz copper on inner layers, and exposed PGND/AGND planes - matching MPS's recommended layout. Measured thermal resistance is θJA ≈ 46°C/W, enabling full 0.6A output at +70°C ambient with no forced airflow.

Can the EVM3606A-QV-00A be used for pre-compliance EMI testing?

Yes - the board includes optional pads for an RC snubber (5.6Ω + 330pF) across SW and PGND, as specified in the MPM3606A datasheet. This configuration reduces switching-node ringing and has been verified to lower peak emissions by 6–8dB in the 30–100MHz band during conducted EMI scans.

Is the EN pin pulled up or left floating by default on this board?

The EN pin is pulled high to VIN through a 100kΩ resistor, ensuring the MPM3606A powers up immediately when input voltage is applied. A 0Ω jumper (J1) allows users to disconnect this pull-up and drive EN externally - supporting controlled power sequencing in multi-rail systems.

What are the key differences between EVM3606A-QV-00A and the MPM3606A-GQV production part?

The EVM3606A-QV-00A is a complete evaluation board containing one MPM3606A-GQV IC plus all supporting passives and layout optimizations; the MPM3606A-GQV is the bare die-in-QFN20 module sold for integration into end-user PCBs. The evaluation board adds test points, thermal relief, and standardized connectors - not present in the production component.