Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3684-RU-00A

Overview

EVM3684-RU-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPM3684GRU 15A step-down power module, designed to demonstrate high-efficiency DC/DC conversion in telecom and server applications. It supports input voltages from 8–18V, delivers adjustable output voltages (1.0/1.2/1.5/1.8V), and integrates built-in MOSFETs and inductor in a 12×15×4 mm QFN package.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3684-RU-00A datasheet, EVM3684-RU-00A pinout, EVM3684-RU-00A application, or EVM3684-RU-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of the MPM3684's adaptive COT control, pre-bias startup, soft-start timing, and protection features under real load conditions.

Technical Context

The EVM3684-RU-00A implements the MPM3684GRU power module with constant-on-time (COT) control architecture, enabling ultrafast transient response and light-load efficiency optimization via frequency scaling. It uses internal bias for 4.5–18V operation or external 5V bias for 2.5–18V input range.

Protection functions include non-latching over-current, over-voltage, under-voltage lockout, and thermal shutdown. Output voltage is set externally via jumper-selectable resistor dividers, supporting 1.0V, 1.2V, 1.5V, or 1.8V nominal outputs with ±1% reference accuracy over 0°C to 70°C junction temperature.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3684-RU-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure validation, server power architecture prototyping, and distributed power system design requiring stable component supply and fast-turn evaluation capability.

Supply support for EVM3684-RU-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 solutions.

The MPM3684 product line delivers fully integrated, high-current power modules targeting space-constrained, thermally demanding applications in networking, computing, and industrial systems where reliability and fast transient response are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the EVM3684-RU-00A?

This board is a functional evaluation platform for the MPM3684GRU power module-not a production-ready subsystem. It enables engineers to verify electrical performance, thermal behavior, and protection functionality under real-world load transients and input variations before committing to custom PCB design.

Can the output voltage be adjusted beyond 1.0–1.8V?

Yes. The MPM3684GRU supports 0.65V to 5.0V output via external feedback resistors. While the EVM3684-RU-00A provides jumpers for 1.0/1.2/1.5/1.8V presets, users can replace R2/R3 with custom values to achieve other regulated outputs within that full range.

Is the EVM3684-RU-00A RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes. All components on the board-including the MPM3684GRU IC, Murata capacitors, Yageo resistors, and Würth connectors-are RoHS-compliant and lead-free, consistent with MPS' green manufacturing policy and documented on their Quality Assurance portal.

Why is this board marked "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGNS"?

MPS has superseded this evaluation board with the EVM3683-20-MN-00B, which supports newer revisions of the MPM3683/3684 family with improved thermal performance and updated layout guidelines. However, EVM3684-RU-00A remains valid for legacy validation and compatibility testing.

Does the board support pre-bias start-up?

Yes. The MPM3684GRU on this board supports pre-bias start-up-verified in MPS test reports. When enabled, the device safely starts into a pre-charged output without causing reverse current or output voltage overshoot, critical for hot-swap and rail-sequencing applications.

What input voltage minimum applies when using internal bias?

With internal bias enabled, the minimum input voltage is 4.5V. The 8V minimum stated in the quick-start guide reflects the default jumper configuration that derives EN from VIN via a fixed resistor divider; lowering R1 adjusts the enable threshold down to 4.5V.