Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3606-QV-00A

Overview

EVM3606-QV-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPM3606GQV synchronous step-down DC/DC module converter, delivering 3.3 V at 0.6 A continuous output with integrated inductor and MOSFETs. It operates across 4.5–21 V input, supports external AAM pin mode selection (PWM or power-save), and includes OCP hiccup and thermal shutdown protection.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3606-QV-00A datasheet, EVM3606-QV-00A pinout, EVM3606-QV-00A application, or EVM3606-QV-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of the MPM3606GQV's performance in space-constrained industrial, medical, and telecom power rails where LDO replacement and compact 6.7 mm × 6.3 mm solution size are critical.

Technical Context

The EVM3606-QV-00A implements a fixed 3.3 V output configuration using the MPM3606GQV IC, which integrates high-side (100 mΩ) and low-side (50 mΩ) MOSFETs, a shielded power inductor, and bootstrap/VCC capacitors. Feedback is set via a 24 kΩ/75 kΩ resistor divider on the FB pin.

Mode control is handled by the AAM pin: open or pulled high forces PWM operation; pulled low enables power-save mode. EN pin provides precise enable/disable logic-level control (1.4 V turn-on threshold), and PGND/AGND separation supports noise-sensitive analog grounding practices.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3606-QV-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial controls, medical imaging subsystems, and telecom power management requiring stable component supply, fast prototyping turnaround, and verified reference design validation.

Supply support for EVM3606-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 DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and LED lighting controllers.

The MPM3606 product line delivers fully integrated, thermally optimized step-down modules targeting space-constrained applications needing reliable, low-noise 0.6 A power delivery without external magnetics or complex loop compensation.

FAQ

What input voltage range does the EVM3606-QV-00A support?

The board accepts 4.5 V to 21 V DC input, matching the MPM3606GQV's operational range. This allows direct connection to common industrial bus voltages (e.g., 12 V, 19 V) and eliminates need for upstream pre-regulators in many embedded systems.

How is output voltage configured on this evaluation board?

The EVM3606-QV-00A is factory-set to 3.3 V output using a 24 kΩ/75 kΩ resistor divider on the FB pin. To adjust output, replace R1 (75 kΩ) and/or R2 (24 kΩ) per the MPM3606 datasheet's VOUT = 0.8 V × (1 + R1/R2) formula.

What is the function of the AAM pin on the EVM3606-QV-00A?

The AAM pin selects operating mode: floating or pulled high enables forced PWM for constant-frequency, low-noise operation; pulling it low activates power-save mode to improve light-load efficiency via pulse-skipping.

Does the board include thermal protection?

Yes - the underlying MPM3606GQV IC incorporates thermal shutdown that disables switching when junction temperature exceeds safe limits. Recovery occurs automatically after cooldown, and the board layout includes thermal vias under the QFN-20 package to enhance heat dissipation.

Can the EVM3606-QV-00A be used to evaluate adjustable-output configurations?

Yes - though shipped with 3.3 V preset, the FB pin is accessible and the feedback divider is populated with standard 0402 resistors. Replacing R1 and R2 allows output adjustment from 0.8 V to 12 V, subject to the MPM3606's internal current limit and stability constraints.

What is the role of the EN pin?

The EN pin provides logic-level enable control: drive above 1.4 V to activate regulation; pull below 1.25 V to disable output. This supports system-level power sequencing, sleep/wake coordination, and fault isolation without external circuitry.