Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM3814-PA-01A

Overview

EVM3814-PA-01A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPM3814GPA synchronous step-down power module, delivering 1A continuous output at 1.2V from a 2.75V–6V input. It integrates a 2.2MHz switching regulator with AAM/CCM mode transition, <10mVpp output ripple (measured), and full protection including hiccup-mode SCP and thermal shutdown. Designed for ultra-small footprint validation in space-constrained DC/DC applications.

For engineers reviewing the EVM3814-PA-01A datasheet, EVM3814-PA-01A pinout, EVM3814-PA-01A application, or EVM3814-PA-01A equivalent, this board enables rapid characterization of efficiency vs. load (up to 90% peak), transient response (2.5A/µs load step), and low-noise operation under real-world PCB layout conditions.

Technical Context

The EVM3814-PA-01A implements the MPM3814GPA's internal control loop with external FB resistor divider (R1/R2 = 200kΩ each) setting VOUT = 1.2V, and includes dedicated VIN_S/VO_S Kelvin sense traces to eliminate PCB trace resistance error. Its 5cm × 5cm × 1.6mm layout supports accurate high-frequency ripple measurement using short-ground oscilloscope probes.

It validates the MPM3814GPA's ECLGA-14 (2.5mm × 2.5mm × 1.2mm) package integration, featuring integrated inductor, internal MOSFETs, and PG/EN logic-level interface pins. The board operates in AAM mode below ~150mA and transitions to CCM above that threshold, maintaining <15mV line regulation across 2.75V–6V VIN.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM3814-PA-01A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power integrity validation, DC/DC converter qualification, and low-noise embedded supply design requiring stable component supply and repeatable lab measurement capability.

Supply support for EVM3814-PA-01A 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 power management ICs and modules, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support operations.

The EVM3814-PA-01A belongs to MPS's evaluation board product line for its ultra-small power modules, designed specifically to accelerate adoption of integrated inductor solutions in space- and noise-sensitive applications such as portable medical devices and imaging sensors.

FAQ

What input voltage range is supported on the EVM3814-PA-01A?

The board supports 2.75V to 6V input per the MPM3814GPA specification. Operation outside this range risks damage; VIN must not exceed 6V. Input is applied via screw terminals labeled VIN+ and VIN−, with onboard EMI filtering (CFF, LEMI1/LEMI2) optimized for 2.2MHz switching noise suppression.

How is output voltage set, and can it be adjusted?

VOUT is set to 1.2V by default using R1 and R2 (200kΩ each) in the FB divider network. It can be adjusted by replacing either resistor with values satisfying VOUT = 0.6V × (1 + R1/R2); the board provides solder pads for alternative resistor placement without trace modification.

Does the board support load transient testing?

Yes - the board includes dedicated VO+ and VO− Kelvin sense points and low-inductance copper-pin load terminals. Test results show stable 20mVpp undershoot/overshoot during 0.5A→1A load steps at 2.5A/µs, verified with 500mA/div current probe and AC-coupled 20mV/div VOUT measurement.

What protections are demonstrated on this evaluation board?

The board fully demonstrates MPM3814GPA's built-in protections: cycle-by-cycle current limiting triggers at ~1.3A, short-circuit protection enters hiccup mode (50ms off-time), and thermal shutdown activates at ~150°C junction temperature. These are observable via PG pin behavior and output collapse during fault conditions.

Is the EN and PG pin accessible for system-level control?

Yes - EN and PG signals are brought out to 1mm pitch DIP headers (labeled "EN" and "PG"). EN accepts 1.2V–6V logic-high to enable regulation; PG asserts open-drain low when VOUT is within ±10% of target, enabling power sequencing in multi-rail systems.

Can this board be used with different output capacitors?

Yes - the board includes footprints for C1B/C2A (22µF, 0805) and space for additional ceramic output capacitance. Changing COUT affects stability margin and transient response; the MPM3814GPA datasheet specifies minimum 22µF X7R for 1.2V operation, and all test data assumes this configuration.