Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-AT2512-3R3

Overview

MPL-AT2512-3R3 from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-profile molded power inductor with 3.3 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 116 mΩ typical DCR, 2.2 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 3 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-AT2512-3R3 datasheet, MPL-AT2512-3R3 package dimensions, MPL-AT2512-3R3 thermal derating curve, or MPL-AT2512-3R3 alternative inductors for IoT power stages, this page delivers verified electrical specs, application-specific performance context, and supply-chain-ready availability details.

Technical Context

This molded SMD inductor uses soft-saturation ferrite core material to maintain gradual inductance roll-off under DC bias, supporting stable loop control in buck regulators operating up to 36 MHz self-resonant frequency. Its 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm × 1.2 mm footprint enables dense PCB layouts without compromising thermal margin.

Rated current is defined per single-layer 30 mm × 50 mm PCB test board (35 µm Cu), while saturation thresholds reflect 30% L-drop at specified ambient temperatures - critical for predicting inductor behavior in thermally coupled wearable or battery-powered systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal passive component, MPL-AT2512-3R3 has no pinout; it features symmetrical surface-mount terminals on opposite ends of the molded rectangular body. The device uses standard solderable terminations compatible with reflow profiles per J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with VLS201610ET-3R3 and XAL2010-332MEB, MPL-AT2512-3R3 uniquely balances 1.2 mm profile, 3 A saturation at 100°C, and 116 mΩ DCR - making it optimal for thermally constrained, high-reliability portable power stages where height and thermal stability are co-critical.

Availability

MPL-AT2512-3R3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable power management, IoT sensor node supplies, and portable medical devices requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MPL-AT2512-3R3 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 targets miniaturized, high-efficiency DC-DC solutions - engineered specifically for portable, battery-powered, and thermally sensitive applications demanding low profile, low noise, and robust thermal performance.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable temperature rise for MPL-AT2512-3R3 at rated current?

The rated current of 2.2 A is defined as the DC current causing a 40 K temperature rise above ambient when mounted on a standardized single-layer PCB (30 mm × 50 mm, 35 µm Cu). Actual rise depends on layout, copper area, airflow, and proximity to heat sources - measured data shows ~38 K rise at 2.2 A under reference conditions.

Does MPL-AT2512-3R3 support reflow soldering per JEDEC J-STD-020?

Yes - MPL-AT2512-3R3 is qualified for standard lead-free reflow profiles (peak 260°C, 20–40 sec above 217°C) per J-STD-020. Its molded epoxy encapsulation withstands thermal cycling without delamination or parameter shift, and terminal finish is matte tin over nickel barrier.

How does the 30% inductance drop definition affect design margin in buck converters?

A 30% L-drop at ISAT indicates the point where core permeability begins significant degradation. For buck converters, this defines the upper bound of usable DC bias before loop compensation becomes unstable or ripple increases sharply - designers typically limit peak inductor current to ≤85% of ISAT for robust transient response.

Is the dot marking on MPL-AT2512-3R3 polarized, and does winding direction matter?

The dot marks the start of winding and establishes phase relationship in multi-phase or coupled-inductor configurations. While not polarized for basic filtering, orientation affects EMI coupling in adjacent traces - placing the dot toward the switch node minimizes common-mode noise injection in buck topologies.

Can MPL-AT2512-3R3 be used in automotive cabin modules?

No - although its −40°C to +125°C operating range overlaps with some automotive ambient zones, MPL-AT2512-3R3 is not AEC-Q200 qualified, lacks automotive-grade screening, and has no failure-in-time (FIT) data published for automotive use. It is intended for commercial portable electronics only.

What is the typical impedance at 1 MHz, and how does it impact input filter effectiveness?

At 1 MHz, impedance is ~12 Ω (dominated by inductive reactance, XL ≈ 2πfL = 20.7 Ω, minus resistive losses). This provides >20 dB attenuation of 1 MHz switching noise relative to source impedance - sufficient for mid-band suppression in single-stage LC filters feeding PMICs in portable SoCs.