Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE2512-1R5

Overview

MPL-SE2512-1R5 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 1.5 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 50 mΩ typical DCR, 2.9 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 3.2 A saturation current at both 25°C and 100°C ambient - designed for DC-DC converter output filtering in space-constrained portable power stages.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE2512-1R5 datasheet, MPL-SE2512-1R5 pinout (no pins; two-terminal SMT device), MPL-SE2512-1R5 application in buck converter output filters, or MPL-SE2512-1R5 equivalent for low-profile high-current inductors, this page delivers verified electrical specs, thermal behavior context, package dimensions, and real-world selection guidance.

Technical Context

This inductor operates across -40°C to +125°C (including self-heating) and features semi-shielded construction to suppress stray magnetic fields while enabling compact 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm × 1.2 mm footprint. Its 62 MHz typical self-resonant frequency supports stable operation in high-frequency switching converters up to ~2 MHz.

Rated current (2.9 A) is defined under standardized single-layer PCB test conditions (35 µm Cu, 30 mm × 50 mm board), while saturation current (3.2 A) reflects 30% inductance drop at both 25°C and 100°C - indicating minimal thermal derating of magnetic core performance over operating range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SMT two-terminal device in semi-shielded molded package; no leads or pins. Land pattern per MPS Rev. 1.2 drawing: pad length 2.4 mm (ref), width 1.0 mm (ref), center-to-center spacing 2.9 mm (ref).

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-SE2512-1R5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, IoT edge nodes, and wearable electronics requiring stable component supply with tight thermal and spatial constraints.

Supply support for MPL-SE2512-1R5 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, headquartered in Kirkland, WA.

The MPL-SE series is engineered for high-current, low-profile DC-DC converter applications in portable and thermally demanding environments - emphasizing thermal robustness, EMI control, and PCB area efficiency.

FAQ

What is the thermal test condition used to specify rated current?

Rated current (2.9 A) is measured with the inductor soldered onto a standardized single-layer PCB: 35 µm copper thickness, 30 mm × 50 mm board size. This ΔT = 40 K condition assumes natural convection; actual temperature rise depends on PCB copper area, airflow, and nearby heat sources.

Does MPL-SE2512-1R5 have polarity or orientation sensitivity?

No - it is a non-polar, symmetric two-terminal inductor. Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are electrically interchangeable; placement orientation does not affect electrical or thermal performance, though consistent orientation aids automated assembly and visual inspection.

How does saturation current behave at elevated temperatures?

Saturation current remains stable at 3.2 A from 25°C to 100°C ambient - confirmed by test data showing identical ISAT values at both temperatures. This reflects the ferrite core's low thermal coefficient of permeability, minimizing inductance collapse under thermal stress.

Can this inductor replace traditional drum-core inductors in 2 A buck designs?

Yes - with 3.2 A ISAT and 2.9 A IR ratings, MPL-SE2512-1R5 exceeds typical 2 A requirements. Its semi-shielded structure also provides better EMI containment than unshielded drum cores, making it suitable for noise-sensitive applications like audio or sensor signal chains.

What is the significance of the "SE" in the part number?

"SE" denotes Semi-Shielded Encapsulated construction - a proprietary MPS packaging method using molded magnetic composite that partially encloses the coil to suppress stray fields while maintaining lower cost and height than fully shielded alternatives.

Is tape-and-reel packaging available, and what are storage conditions?

Yes - supplied in EIA-481-compliant tape-and-reel format. Storage requires -10°C to +40°C ambient temperature and <50% RH; moisture sensitivity level (MSL) is not specified, but standard dry-pack handling per J-STD-033 is recommended prior to reflow.