Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE4030-100

Overview

MPL-SE4030-100 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 10 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 100 mΩ typical DCR, 2 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 2.2 A saturation current at 25°C - designed for DC-DC converter output filtering and input chokes in space-constrained embedded power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE4030-100 datasheet, MPL-SE4030-100 pinout (though non-pin device), MPL-SE4030-100 application in high-efficiency SMPS, or MPL-SE4030-100 equivalent, key selection criteria include thermal rise behavior under 2 A load, 30% inductance drop threshold at 100°C ambient, low stray field due to semi-shielded construction, and compatibility with 4 mm × 4 mm × 3 mm land pattern on single-layer PCBs.

Technical Context

This inductor operates across -40°C to +125°C ambient (including self-heating), with inductance measured at 100 kHz / 100 mA and saturation defined by 30% L-drop at both 25°C and 100°C. Its semi-shielded ferrite core balances magnetic confinement and thermal dissipation.

Rated current is validated on a 30 mm × 50 mm single-layer PCB with 35 µm copper; performance varies with layout, trace width, proximity to heat sources, and board stack-up. Resonance frequency is 32 MHz, supporting stable operation in buck converters switching up to 2 MHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SMT inductor with two solder terminals (no polarity); packaged in tape-and-reel per EIA-481. Dimensions: 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm × 3.0 mm (L × W × H), land pattern optimized for thermal relief and mechanical stability on single-layer PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with VLS4012ET-100M and MSS5131-103ML, MPL-SE4030-100 delivers optimal balance of 2 A rated current, 3 mm height constraint, and semi-shielded EMI control - making it ideal for mid-density embedded power stages where thermal and spatial margins are tightly coupled.

Availability

MPL-SE4030-100 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing applications requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability and consistent parametric performance.

Supply support for MPL-SE4030-100 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 for industrial, computing, and automotive markets.

MPL-SE series inductors are engineered specifically for integration with MPS's DC-DC controllers and modules - emphasizing thermal robustness, layout-insensitive EMI behavior, and seamless validation in reference designs.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable temperature rise for MPL-SE4030-100 at 2 A DC?

The rated current of 2 A corresponds to a 40 K temperature rise above ambient when mounted on a single-layer 30 mm × 50 mm PCB with 35 µm copper. This is measured under standardized test conditions; actual rise depends on board layout, airflow, and neighboring heat sources.

Does MPL-SE4030-100 have polarity or orientation sensitivity?

No - it is a non-polarized, two-terminal SMT inductor. However, orientation affects thermal coupling: mounting with the longest side parallel to board edges improves lateral heat dissipation, and avoiding placement near hot ICs maintains specified ISAT performance.

Can MPL-SE4030-100 be used in a 2 MHz switching converter?

Yes - its 32 MHz self-resonant frequency provides >15 dB impedance margin above 2 MHz. Inductance remains stable (>95% of nominal) up to 10 MHz, and Q-factor peaks near 5 MHz, supporting efficient high-frequency operation.

How does semi-shielded construction impact EMI compared to fully shielded inductors?

Semi-shielded design reduces radiated magnetic fields by ~15 dB versus unshielded types while allowing better thermal convection than fully shielded variants. It offers a practical compromise for applications needing moderate EMI suppression without sacrificing thermal performance or cost.

Is the 100 mΩ DCR value guaranteed across temperature?

No - the 100 mΩ is typical at 25°C. DCR increases ~0.4%/°C for copper windings; at +125°C, resistance rises to ~140 mΩ. Designs requiring tight regulation at high ambient must account for this increase in conduction loss and thermal feedback.

What PCB land pattern is recommended for MPL-SE4030-100?

MPS specifies a land pattern matching the 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm body with 0.5 mm solder pad extensions beyond each terminal. Thermal relief traces are recommended; minimum 0.3 mm trace width to each pad ensures mechanical reliability and current handling for 2 A continuous.

Does MPL-SE4030-100 meet AEC-Q200 for automotive use?

No - it is not AEC-Q200 qualified. While rated for -40°C to +125°C operation, it lacks the extended reliability testing (vibration, thermal cycling, humidity bias) required for automotive qualification. Use only in industrial or consumer applications unless validated per system-level requirements.