Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-AT2512-1R5

Overview

MPL-AT2512-1R5 from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-profile molded power inductor with 1.5 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 43 mΩ typical DCR, 3.4 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 4.2 A saturation current at both 25°C and 100°C ambient. It operates from –40°C to +125°C and is optimized for high-frequency DC-DC converters in space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-AT2512-1R5 datasheet, MPL-AT2512-1R5 package dimensions, MPL-AT2512-1R5 thermal derating curve, or MPL-AT2512-1R5 alternative inductors, this page delivers verified electrical specs, application-specific performance context, and real-world layout guidance for high-efficiency buck regulator designs.

Technical Context

This molded inductor uses composite magnetic material with soft saturation characteristics, enabling stable inductance under high DC bias while minimizing audible noise and core loss at switching frequencies up to 46 MHz resonance. Its construction supports continuous operation at +125°C case temperature with minimal inductance drift.

The 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm × 1.2 mm footprint and symmetric land pattern support automated placement and high-density PCB layouts. Thermal performance is characterized on a single-layer 30 mm × 50 mm PCB with 35 µm copper, enabling accurate system-level thermal modeling in battery-powered SMPS.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal passive component, the MPL-AT2512-1R5 has no pinout. It is a surface-mount molded inductor with symmetrical terminations compatible with standard 0805-sized land patterns.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-AT2512-1R5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, high switching frequency SMPS, and wearable electronics requiring stable component supply with tight dimensional control and thermal reliability.

Supply support for MPL-AT2512-1R5 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 for power conversion, battery management, and motor control.

The MPL-AT series is designed specifically for high-efficiency, high-density DC-DC converters in portable and thermally constrained applications, emphasizing low profile, thermal robustness, and soft saturation behavior.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended board temperature rise for MPL-AT2512-1R5 at 3.4 A?

The rated current of 3.4 A is defined as the DC current causing a 40 K temperature rise above ambient when mounted on a single-layer 30 mm × 50 mm PCB with 35 µm copper. Actual board temperature must remain ≤+125°C including ambient and self-heating - e.g., at 85°C ambient, max allowable ΔT is 40 K.

Does MPL-AT2512-1R5 have polarity or winding direction sensitivity?

Yes - the dot marking indicates the start of winding. While not electrically polarized, consistent orientation improves magnetic field containment in multi-inductor layouts and minimizes coupling in tightly spaced DC-DC modules. The datasheet specifies dot placement relative to terminal 1.

How does the 4.2 A saturation current at 100°C compare to typical ferrite-core inductors?

Unlike standard ferrite inductors whose ISAT drops significantly above 85°C, MPL-AT2512-1R5 maintains identical 4.2 A ISAT at both 25°C and 100°C due to its composite core formulation - enabling predictable performance in thermally aggressive locations like near processors or power stages.

Can MPL-AT2512-1R5 replace older 0805-size inductors in existing designs?

Yes - its 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm footprint matches JEDEC-standard 0805 land patterns, and its 1.2 mm max height fits under most shielded enclosures. However, verify DCR (43 mΩ typ) and ISAT (4.2 A) against original part's thermal and transient requirements before drop-in replacement.

Is MPL-AT2512-1R5 suitable for automotive infotainment power rails?

Yes - it meets AEC-Q200 stress test requirements per MPS qualification data, operates from –40°C to +125°C, and its molded construction resists vibration and thermal cycling. Use with appropriate derating: limit ambient + ΔT to ≤125°C and avoid placement near heat sources exceeding 105°C.

What is the significance of the 46 MHz typical self-resonant frequency?

A 46 MHz SRF places the inductor's impedance peak well above typical buck converter switching frequencies (0.5–3 MHz), ensuring purely inductive behavior in the operating band. This avoids unintended filtering or phase shift that could destabilize voltage-mode or COT control loops.