Monolithic Power Systems Inc. TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A

Overview

TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A from Monolithic Power Systems is a long-format (LT) evaluation board designed specifically for the MAQ473 MagAlpha magnetic position sensor. It supports both side-shaft and end-of-shaft mounting configurations, provides SPI interface access via dual 8-pin headers (CN1/CN2), and integrates decoupling capacitors and test points for rapid functional validation in motor control and encoder applications.

For engineers reviewing the TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A datasheet, TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A pinout, TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A application, or TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A equivalent, this board enables immediate evaluation of MAQ473 angle sensing performance-including incremental A/B/Z outputs, PWM, and serial communication-without custom PCB design or sensor-level bring-up overhead.

Technical Context

The TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A implements Board Type 1 architecture per the TBMA User Guide Rev. 1.2, matching the schematic and pin register layout defined for MAQ473-compatible LT boards. It routes VDD (3.3V), GND, VFLASH (3.9V flash supply), and full SPI signals (CS, SCLK, MISO, MOSI) on CN1, while CN2 exposes U/V/W motor commutation outputs and A/B/Z incremental encoder signals.

This board type does not include populated connectors (CN1/CN2 are unpopulated), uses 0402 ceramic decoupling capacitors (1µF ×2, 100nF ×1), and supports optional 0Ω resistors for configuration flexibility. Mechanical dimensions follow the standard LT format with edge-mounted sensor placement optimized for magnetic field coupling in rotary position sensing setups.

Key Specifications

Availability

TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for servo drives, robotics, BLDC motor commutation, and encoder subsystem development requiring stable component supply and rapid MagAlpha sensor prototyping.

Supply support for TBMAQ473-Q-LT-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 and motion sensing solutions, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support infrastructure.

TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A belongs to the TBMA family of MagAlpha evaluation boards, engineered to accelerate development of contactless angular position sensing systems in automotive, industrial, and motor control applications.

FAQ

What sensor does TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A support?

TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A is designed exclusively for the MAQ473 MagAlpha magnetic position sensor, as confirmed by Table 1 (Board Type 2 listing) and schematic alignment in the TBMA User Guide Rev. 1.2. It maps all MAQ473-specific I/Os including U/V/W, A/B/Z, and PWM outputs.

Are connectors included with the board?

No - CN1 and CN2 connectors are not populated on TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A per Table 2 BOM and Figure 5 assembly view. Users must source and solder 2.54mm 8-pin receptacles (e.g., Wurth 690367280876 or TE Connectivity 7-2178711-8) to enable interface connectivity.

Does this board support VFLASH functionality?

Yes - CN1.3 is designated VFLASH (3.9V supply) and is routed per Figure 4 schematic and Table 3 pin registers, enabling firmware flashing operations for the MAQ473 sensor when used with compatible programming hardware.

Can TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A be used with other MagAlpha sensors?

No - it is mechanically and electrically optimized for MAQ473 only. Other sensors (e.g., MA700, MA820) require different board types (Type 1–7) due to distinct pinouts, output configurations, and internal register mappings as specified in Table 1.

What mounting options does this board provide?

TBMAQ473-Q-LT-01A supports both side-shaft and end-of-shaft configurations per the User Guide description on page 1, enabled by its LT format and edge-mounted MAQ473 placement - allowing flexible integration into rotary actuator assemblies and motor housings.