Monolithic Power Systems Inc. EVQ4488-U-00B

Overview

EVQ4488-U-00B from Monolithic Power Systems is an evaluation board for the MPQ4488 dual-USB charging port power converter IC, designed to demonstrate automotive-grade 5.17V/3A per port USB Type-C and BC1.2-compliant charging with programmable 450kHz switching frequency, 6V–36V input range, and AEC-Q100 qualification.

For engineers reviewing the EVQ4488-U-00B datasheet, EVQ4488-U-00B pinout, EVQ4488-U-00B application, or EVQ4488-U-00B equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of dual-port USB charging architecture in infotainment head units, center consoles, and rear-seat entertainment systems requiring stable 5V@3A output with DCP/Type-C DFP mode support.

Technical Context

The EVQ4488-U-00B implements the MPQ4488 QFN26 (5mm×5mm) IC, integrating a monolithic buck converter with two independent USB current-limit switches and on-die port identification logic. It supports three USB charging modes-BC1.2 DCP (Divider and 1.2V/1.2V), and USB Type-C 5V@3A DFP-without external host intervention.

Board-level design includes 4.7µH and 2.2µH shielded inductors, 270µF polymer output capacitance, and configurable resistive dividers (R3/R5 = 5.1kΩ default) for VOUT selection (5.1V/5.17V/5.3V). Hiccup-mode current limiting and thermal load shedding are hardware-implemented via internal circuitry.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVQ4488-U-00B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, center console USB hubs, and rear-seat entertainment modules requiring stable component supply and pre-validated USB charging compliance.

Supply support for EVQ4488-U-00B 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 for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications, with over two decades of expertise in DC/DC conversion and USB power delivery.

The MPQ4488 product line targets automotive USB charging solutions requiring AEC-Q100 qualification, integrated port detection, and robust thermal management - eliminating discrete USB switch and identification ICs in space-constrained head units.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVQ4488-U-00B evaluation board?

The EVQ4488-U-00B is a fully assembled demonstration platform for the MPQ4488 dual-USB charging IC. It validates real-world performance of 5.17V/3A per port output, BC1.2 and USB Type-C DFP mode auto-detection, and 6V–36V input operation under thermal and load transients - without requiring external microcontroller firmware.

Does the board support both USB Type-A and Type-C ports simultaneously?

No - the board implements two USB Type-C receptacles (Wurth 632723300011), each capable of delivering 5V@3A in DFP mode. USB Type-A functionality requires external adapter cables; the board's CN1 header allows configuration for legacy Type-A 5V/2.4A mode via resistor changes and jumper settings per the Quick Start Guide.

How is USB port identification implemented on this board?

Port identification is handled entirely by the MPQ4488 IC using integrated analog comparators and state machines. The board routes CC1/CC2, DP/DM, and VCONN signals directly to the USB connectors; no external USB PD controller or enumeration IC is needed. Mode selection (BC1.2 vs. Type-C) occurs automatically based on attached device signaling.

What thermal management features are included?

The board uses a four-layer PCB with 2oz copper, thermal vias under the MPQ4488 QFN26 package, and low-DCR inductors (7mΩ/29mΩ). The MPQ4488 IC itself implements load shedding versus temperature and hiccup-mode current limiting on both buck and USB outputs - visible as periodic restart cycles during sustained overload or elevated ambient conditions.

Is the EVQ4488-U-00B recommended for new designs?

No - the documentation explicitly states "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGNS." This reflects MPS's product lifecycle status; the board remains valid for evaluation and legacy system support but should not be selected for newly initiated automotive projects. Engineers should consult MPS for current-generation alternatives such as the MPQ4489 or MPQ4490 series.