Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3810A-QB-00A

Overview

EVM3810A-QB-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the MPM3810A - a 2.5–6V input, 1.2A peak synchronous step-down switcher with integrated MOSFETs and inductor, constant-on-time (COT) control, and 1.2V fixed/adjustable output. It delivers up to 95% efficiency at 5V_IN/1.2V_OUT/0.6A and supports automotive ECU and space-constrained portable power applications.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3810A-QB-00A datasheet, EVM3810A-QB-00A pinout, EVM3810A-QB-00A application, or EVM3810A-QB-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of MPM3810A's transient response, power sequencing (EN/PG), hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and 100% duty-cycle dropout operation under real-world load and line conditions.

Technical Context

The EVM3810A-QB-00A implements the MPM3810A IC in a fully assembled, tested QFN3.0×2.5mm layout with optimized 6mm × 3.8mm total solution size. It uses COT control architecture to achieve sub-100µs transient recovery and supports forced continuous conduction mode (CCM) for predictable ripple and stability across 0.1–1.2A loads.

Board-level features include EN and PG signals for system power sequencing, cycle-by-cycle over-current protection, thermal shutdown, and adjustable output via external resistor divider (R1/R2). Input filtering uses three 10µF X5R 0805 capacitors; output employs 22µF + 0.1µF ceramic staging for low-noise 1.2V/1.8V regulation.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3810A-QB-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU development, low-voltage I/O system power validation, and LDO replacement prototyping requiring stable component supply and production-ready reference design fidelity.

Supply support for EVM3810A-QB-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 MPM3810A product line targets space-constrained, low-voltage power systems requiring high efficiency, fast transient response, and minimal external components - specifically engineered for automotive infotainment, telematics, and portable electronics.

FAQ

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

The EVM3810A-QB-00A is factory-configured for 1.2V output using 40.2kΩ resistors for both R1 and R2 in the feedback divider. Output voltage is adjusted via the formula V_OUT = 0.6V × (1 + R1/R2); R1 is recommended between 40kΩ and 80kΩ for optimal noise immunity and accuracy.

Does this board support power sequencing with other system rails?

Yes - the board exposes dedicated EN (enable) and PG (power good) pins from the MPM3810A. PG asserts high after V_OUT reaches 90% of target and remains valid during regulation; EN accepts 1.2–6V logic-compatible input for controlled startup/shutdown timing.

What input capacitance is used and why?

The board uses three 10µF/16V X5R 0805 ceramic capacitors (C3C, C4, C7) on VIN. This 30µF total minimizes input ripple and sustains >1.2A peak current during COT switching cycles while maintaining low ESL for high-frequency stability.

How is short-circuit protection implemented and verified?

Short-circuit protection triggers hiccup mode: the MPM3810A shuts down for ~6ms upon current limit detection, then retries. EVB test reports confirm full recovery within 2ms after fault removal at 5V_IN/1.2V_OUT, with no latch-up or thermal damage observed.

Can this board operate at 100% duty cycle? Under what conditions?

Yes - the MPM3810A supports 100% duty cycle in dropout. Verified on EVM3810A-QB-00A at V_IN = 2.5V and V_OUT = 1.2V, maintaining regulation with <0.5% line regulation error and no oscillation or dropout-induced reset.

Is the board RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes - all components on EVM3810A-QB-00A meet RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. MPS confirms full lead-free status for the MPM3810A-GQB IC and all bill-of-materials parts, including muRata capacitors and Wurth ferrite beads.