Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-AL5050-8R2

Overview

MPL-AL5050-8R2 from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-resistance molded power inductor with 8.2 µH nominal inductance, 28 mΩ typical DCR, 5.8 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and +155°C max operating temperature - designed for high-current, high-frequency DC-DC converters in FPGA and POL applications.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-AL5050-8R2 datasheet, MPL-AL5050-8R2 pinout, MPL-AL5050-8R2 application, or MPL-AL5050-8R2 equivalent, key selection criteria include saturation current at 25°C/100°C (7.2 A), soft saturation behavior, low audible noise, and thermal stability across -40°C to +155°C operation.

Technical Context

This molded inductor uses composite powder core technology enabling soft saturation-inductance declines gradually under DC bias rather than collapsing abruptly-critical for maintaining loop stability in voltage-mode and peak-current-mode SMPS controllers. Its low AC losses stem from optimized core geometry and fine-grain magnetic material, minimizing eddy current heating at frequencies up to 14 MHz resonance.

The 5.5 mm × 5.3 mm × 4.8 mm footprint supports high-density PCB layouts while maintaining thermal performance via direct copper pad contact and molded encapsulation that enhances mechanical robustness and moisture resistance. Rated current testing follows standardized single-layer PCB conditions (35 µm Cu, 30×50 mm), ensuring reproducible thermal benchmarking.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal passive component, the MPL-AL5050-8R2 has no pinout; it features a surface-mount molded package with exposed copper pads on bottom for thermal and electrical connection. Package dimensions: 5.5 mm × 5.3 mm × 4.8 mm (L × W × H); land pattern per MPS datasheet Rev. 1.1.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-AL5050-8R2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, FPGA power delivery, and high-current SMPS requiring stable component supply with full RoHS/REACH compliance and halogen-free construction.

Supply support for MPL-AL5050-8R2 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 power components, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support operations.

The MPL-AL series is engineered specifically for high-efficiency, high-density DC-DC conversion in space-constrained and thermally demanding applications-including computing, telecom, and industrial systems-emphasizing low loss, thermal resilience, and manufacturability.

FAQ

What is the recommended PCB layout for optimal thermal performance?

Use a minimum 10 mm² copper pour per terminal with 2–4 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter, filled or capped) connecting directly to inner ground/power planes. Maintain ≥1.5 mm clearance from adjacent heat sources and avoid placing under thermal shields. The datasheet specifies 30×50 mm single-layer test board with 35 µm Cu as baseline.

Does MPL-AL5050-8R2 support AEC-Q200 qualification?

No - MPL-AL5050-8R2 is not AEC-Q200 qualified. It is rated for industrial temperature range (-40°C to +155°C) and meets RoHS/REACH/halogen-free requirements, but lacks the stress testing and documentation required for automotive qualification.

How does its soft saturation behavior impact current-mode controller stability?

Soft saturation maintains predictable inductor slope during overload, preserving accurate peak current sensing and preventing subharmonic oscillation. Unlike abrupt-saturating cores, it avoids sudden gain shifts in the current loop, supporting stable operation up to 7.2 A without compensation re-tuning.

Can this inductor be used in synchronous boost topologies?

Yes - its 7.2 A saturation current and 14 MHz SRF make it suitable for high-efficiency synchronous boost converters up to 2 MHz, provided RMS current stays within 5.8 A and thermal design accommodates ΔT ≤ 40 K under worst-case duty cycle.

Is the dot marking polarity-critical in non-isolated buck converters?

Yes - the dot identifies winding start and determines magnetic polarity. In multiphase or interleaved designs, consistent dot orientation across phases is essential to cancel ripple current and minimize EMI; reversal causes additive ripple and potential core saturation.

What is the shelf life under tape-and-reel packaging?

Tape-and-reel packaged MPL-AL5050-8R2 has a shelf life of 12 months when stored at -10°C to +40°C and <50% RH. After opening, humidity exposure must be controlled per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-033 guidelines; baking is not required for standard SMT reflow if used within floor life.