Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVM54524-CQ-00A

Overview

EVM54524-CQ-00A from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPM54524 - a 4V–16V input, quad-output, 5A-per-channel integrated step-down power module with I²C interface, active voltage positioning (AVP), and configurable soft-start. It supports independent or paralleled operation (2-, 3-, or 4-phase) with inherent current balancing and full protection (UVLO, OCP, OVP, UVP, thermal shutdown). Used to validate multi-rail power delivery in FPGA, ASIC, and high-density compute applications.

For engineers reviewing the EVM54524-CQ-00A datasheet, EVM54524-CQ-00A pinout, EVM54524-CQ-00A application, or EVM54524-CQ-00A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of I²C-configurable sequencing, AVP-based current sharing, efficiency vs. load, and transient response across four synchronized buck outputs under real-world thermal and layout constraints.

Technical Context

The EVM54524-CQ-00A implements the MPM54524 IC in an 8mm × 8mm × 2.9mm ECLGA-51 package, supporting 1MHz default switching frequency and configurable output voltages via I²C registers. It integrates MOSFETs, drivers, compensation, and digital control logic - eliminating external loop compensation components.

Board-level design includes four independent 47μF ceramic output capacitors per channel, selectable parallel jumpers (A/B, C/D), dedicated I²C header (SCL/SDA/GND), and test points for VOA–VOD, EN, PG, and VIN. Thermal performance is validated up to 115°C ambient with 20A total output in 4-phase mode.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVM54524-CQ-00A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA power sequencing validation, ASIC core voltage testing, and multi-rail embedded system development requiring stable component supply and fast-turn evaluation support.

Supply support for EVM54524-CQ-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 power management ICs and modules, with expertise in DC/DC conversion, motor drivers, and battery management solutions.

The MPM54524 product line delivers fully integrated, digitally configurable power modules targeting space-constrained, high-reliability applications such as AI accelerators, networking processors, and programmable logic systems requiring precise rail control and dynamic current sharing.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the EVM54524-CQ-00A?

This evaluation board is designed exclusively to demonstrate and validate the MPM54524 power module's capabilities - including I²C-configurable sequencing, AVP-based current sharing across up to four paralleled phases, and comprehensive fault protection - under real operating conditions with minimal external components.

Does the board support independent operation of all four outputs?

Yes. The EVM54524-CQ-00A allows each of the four outputs (VOA–VOD) to operate independently with individual voltage settings, soft-start timing, and current limits configured via I²C. Jumper options also enable flexible 2-, 3-, or 4-phase paralleling without firmware reconfiguration.

What are the required connections to power up the board?

Apply 4V–16V DC between VIN and GND terminals. No load is required for startup. Outputs VOA–VOD are accessible via screw terminals or copper pins; GNDA–GNDD must be connected to respective output return paths. EN must be pulled high (via onboard R1/R3) or driven externally.

How is I²C communication implemented on this board?

The board provides a standard 10-pin I²C header (SCL, SDA, GND, VCC, ADDR1, ADDR2, and NC pins) compatible with common debug probes. Address configuration uses ADDR1/ADDR2 resistors (10kΩ pull-up by default), supporting up to four unique I²C addresses for multi-module systems.

Can the board be used for thermal performance testing?

Yes. The PCB layout features exposed thermal pads aligned with the MPM54524's ECLGA-51 package, and performance curves in the reference document include thermal derating data up to 115°C ambient. Board-level temperature measurements can be made using TP1–TP2 and surface-mount thermal vias.

Is there built-in power-good monitoring?

Yes. The PG signal is routed to a dedicated test point and header pin. It asserts high after all four outputs reach regulation (±1% tolerance) and remain stable for >1 ms, with internal hysteresis and fault latching behavior consistent with the MPM54524 datasheet specifications.