Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-AL5050-6R8

Overview

MPL-AL5050-6R8 from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-resistance molded power inductor with 6.8 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 25 mΩ typical DCR, 6.1 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 7.6 A saturation current at both 25°C and 100°C ambient - designed for high-current, high-frequency DC-DC converters in FPGA and POL applications.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-AL5050-6R8 datasheet, MPL-AL5050-6R8 pinout, MPL-AL5050-6R8 application, or MPL-AL5050-6R8 equivalent, key selection criteria include DCR vs. thermal rise, soft saturation behavior under load transients, +155°C max operating temperature compliance, and 5.5 mm × 5.3 mm × 4.8 mm molded SMT footprint compatibility with dense PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This molded inductor uses composite powder core material enabling stable inductance over temperature (-40°C to +155°C) and soft saturation characteristics critical for transient response in buck regulators. Its low AC losses and low audible noise stem from optimized winding geometry and encapsulation damping.

Designed for switching frequencies up to 15 MHz (typical self-resonant frequency), it supports high-efficiency operation in 500 kHz–2 MHz SMPS topologies where low DCR minimizes conduction loss and thermal derating is constrained by adjacent components and PCB copper mass.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal passive inductor, MPL-AL5050-6R8 has no active pins or signal assignments. It features a molded SMT package measuring 5.5 mm × 5.3 mm × 4.8 mm with bottom-surface solder pads. Marking includes dot indicating start of winding and "6R8" inductance code.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar power inductor applications.

Compared with VLS5045EX-6R8M and MSS5131-682MLB, MPL-AL5050-6R8 delivers the lowest DCR and highest saturation current in its size class, making it optimal for thermally constrained, high-transient FPGA and POL designs where efficiency and peak current headroom are prioritized.

Availability

MPL-AL5050-6R8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, high-current SMPS, and FPGA power delivery systems requiring stable component supply, consistent DCR performance, and RoHS/REACH-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MPL-AL5050-6R8 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 magnetics, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

The MPL-AL series is engineered specifically for high-efficiency, high-density DC-DC conversion - targeting next-generation computing, telecom infrastructure, and industrial automation where thermal resilience and compact magnetics are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable PCB temperature rise when using MPL-AL5050-6R8 at 6.1 A?

The rated current of 6.1 A is defined as the DC current causing a 40 K temperature rise above ambient when mounted on a standardized single-layer PCB (30×50 mm, 35 µm Cu). Actual rise depends on layout - doubling copper area reduces ΔT by ~15%, while proximity to heat sources may increase it beyond 40 K.

Does MPL-AL5050-6R8 support AEC-Q200 qualification?

No - MPL-AL5050-6R8 is not AEC-Q200 qualified. It meets industrial-grade reliability standards and operates from -40°C to +155°C, but lacks the extended temperature cycling, vibration, and humidity testing required for automotive qualification. For AEC-Q200 applications, consider MPS's automotive-qualified MPLA series or alternatives like Coilcraft MSS5131.

How does the 7.6 A saturation current at 100°C compare to typical inductor derating?

Unlike many ferrite-core inductors that lose >30% ISAT between 25°C and 100°C, MPL-AL5050-6R8 maintains identical 7.6 A saturation current at both temperatures - confirming exceptional thermal stability of its composite core material and making it suitable for high-ambient environments without current derating.

Can MPL-AL5050-6R8 be used in synchronous boost converters?

Yes - its 15 MHz self-resonant frequency, low DCR, and soft saturation make it viable in high-efficiency synchronous boost topologies up to 2 MHz. However, ensure the switch-node voltage stress remains within the inductor's insulation rating (not specified in datasheet; consult MPS for creepage/clearance data if used above 60 V).

Is the "6R8" marking polarity-sensitive?

The "6R8" marking and dot indicate the start of winding but do not define electrical polarity. As a passive two-terminal device, orientation has no functional impact on DC performance. However, consistent placement improves EMI predictability - orient the dot toward the switch node to minimize common-mode radiation in buck configurations.

What is the recommended reflow profile for MPL-AL5050-6R8?

MPS specifies JEDEC J-STD-020D-compliant lead-free reflow: peak temperature 260°C for ≤10 seconds, ramp-up rate ≤3°C/s, and time above 217°C of 60–150 seconds. Exceeding these limits risks epoxy cracking or internal delamination; verify profile with actual board mass and thermal mass before high-volume production.