Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-AT2512-100

Overview

MPL-AT2512-100 from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-profile molded power inductor with 10 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 355 mΩ typical DCR, 1.2 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 1.7 A saturation current at both 25°C and 100°C ambient - designed for high-frequency DC-DC converters in space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-AT2512-100 datasheet, MPL-AT2512-100 pinout (two-terminal SMT device), MPL-AT2512-100 application in buck converters or input filters, or MPL-AT2512-100 equivalent for compact 10 µH power inductors, this page delivers verified electrical specs, thermal behavior context, package dimensions, and real-world selection guidance.

Technical Context

This molded inductor uses composite magnetic material with soft saturation characteristics, enabling stable inductance over wide current ranges and minimizing audible noise during transient load steps. Its construction supports operation up to +125°C (including self-heating) and exhibits a typical self-resonant frequency of 16 MHz.

Designed for high-switching-frequency SMPS (e.g., >1 MHz buck regulators), it delivers low core loss and predictable DC bias performance due to its controlled permeability and distributed air gap. The 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm × 1.2 mm footprint enables dense PCB layouts without compromising thermal derating under continuous 1.2 A DC load.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Molded SMT inductor, 2-terminal device in 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm × 1.2 mm low-profile land-grid outline (LGA-style footprint). Dimensions: A = 2.1 mm (ref), B = 0.60 mm (ref), C = 2.60 mm (ref); top marking includes dot indicating start of winding.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-AT2512-100 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable power management, IoT sensor node DC-DC conversion, and portable medical monitor designs requiring stable component supply amid end-of-life transitions.

Supply support for MPL-AT2512-100 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 passive components, headquartered in Kirkland, WA.

The MPL-AT series targets miniaturized, high-efficiency DC-DC solutions for battery-powered edge devices - emphasizing low profile, thermal robustness, and noise-free operation in constrained environments.

FAQ

What does "END OF LIFE" mean for MPL-AT2512-100?

MPL-AT2512-100 is officially declared End of Life by Monolithic Power Systems as of Rev. 1.1 (July 2019). No new production lots are planned, but Aetrix Electronics maintains legacy inventory with full traceability and offers lifecycle coordination support for ongoing builds.

Is MPL-AT2512-100 RoHS-compliant and halogen-free?

Yes - MPL-AT2512-100 meets RoHS/REACH requirements and is halogen-free per MPS documentation. It contains no brominated flame retardants, chlorine, or fluorine above threshold limits, satisfying EU and global environmental compliance mandates.

How is the rated current (IR) measured, and why does it differ from ISAT?

Rated current (1.2 A) is defined by thermal rise (ΔT = 40 K) on a standardized single-layer PCB; saturation current (1.7 A) is defined by 30% inductance drop at 25°C or 100°C. IR governs thermal safety; ISAT governs magnetic integrity - both must be respected in design.

Can MPL-AT2512-100 replace wirewound inductors in 2 MHz buck converters?

Yes - its 16 MHz self-resonant frequency and stable 10 µH value up to 2 MHz make it suitable for replacing traditional wirewounds. Its lower profile (1.2 mm vs. ≥1.8 mm) and molded construction further reduce EMI and board space.

What is the significance of the dot marking on the top surface?

The dot indicates the start of the winding, establishing consistent polarity orientation during automated placement. While the inductor is non-polarized electrically, aligning the dot improves repeatability in high-volume assembly and simplifies debugging of EMI-sensitive layouts.

Does MPL-AT2512-100 require derating at elevated ambient temperatures?

Yes - though rated for operation up to +125°C (including self-heating), the 1.2 A IR is specified at 25°C ambient. At 85°C ambient, thermal margin shrinks; designers should consult the temperature-rise-vs-current curve (Fig. 1, Rev. 1.1) to determine safe DC current limits.