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

Overview

TBMAQ473-Q-RD-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-RD-01A datasheet, TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A pinout, TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A application, or TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A equivalent, this board enables immediate characterization of MAQ473 angle accuracy, SPI register read/write behavior, incremental A/B/Z output timing, and PWM output response under real magnetic field conditions - without custom PCB design.

Technical Context

The TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A implements Board Type 1 architecture per the TBMA User Guide Rev. 1.2, matching the schematic and layout of TBMAQ473-Q-LT. It routes all MAQ473 primary digital interfaces - VDD, GND, CS, SCLK, MISO, MOSI, TEST - to CN1, and exposes functional outputs including U/V/W (motor commutation), A/B/Z (incremental encoder), and PWM to CN2.

This board does not include populated connectors (CN1/CN2 are unpopulated), requires external 3.3V supply, and relies on the MAQ473's internal voltage regulation. Its mechanical design features edge-mounted sensor placement optimized for precise air-gap alignment with diametrically magnetized magnets in servo and BLDC rotor position sensing setups.

Key Specifications

Availability

TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for servo drives, robotics motion control, automotive EPS systems, and BLDC motor commutation requiring stable component supply and rapid MagAlpha sensor prototyping.

Supply support for TBMAQ473-Q-RD-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 sensing solutions, with core expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and magnetic position sensors.

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

FAQ

Is TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A shipped with connectors pre-soldered?

No. Per Table 2 of the TBMA User Guide Rev. 1.2, CN1 and CN2 are unpopulated 2.54mm 8-position receptacle footprints. Users must solder compatible connectors (e.g., Wurth 690367280876 or TE Connectivity 7-2178711-8) to interface with host controllers or test equipment.

Which MagAlpha sensor is mounted on TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A?

The board is configured for the MAQ473 magnetic position sensor, as confirmed by Table 1 (Board Type 2 listing TBMAQ473-Q-LT → MAQ473) and schematic compatibility with Type 1 architecture. The sensor is factory-assembled and calibrated.

Does TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A support both SPI and SSI communication modes?

No. This is a Type 1 board, which implements SPI-only interface (CS/SCLK/MISO/MOSI). SSI mode requires Type 6 or Type 7 boards (e.g., TBMA735 or TBMA736), which route SSCK/SSD signals instead of MOSI/MISO.

Can TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A be used with the EVKT-MagAlpha-MagDiff evaluation kit?

Yes. The TBMA User Guide explicitly states compatibility with EVKT-MagAlpha-MagDiff (page 1), enabling seamless connection for differential magnetic field testing and noise immunity validation of the MAQ473 sensor.

What is the purpose of the TEST pin (CN1.8) on TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A?

CN1.8 is the dedicated TEST pin from the MAQ473, used for internal diagnostics, factory calibration verification, and debug access during firmware development - not intended for routine system operation or user signal routing.

Are decoupling capacitors included and populated on TBMAQ473-Q-RD-01A?

Yes. The board includes two populated 1µF X6S 0402 ceramic capacitors (C1, C4) per Table 2, plus one optional 100nF X7R 0402 capacitor (C3) location - all placed per MPS reference layout guidelines for MAQ473 power integrity.