Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE4030-150

Overview

MPL-SE4030-150 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 15 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 185 mΩ typical DCR, 1.4 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 1.8 A saturation current at 25°C - designed for high-efficiency DC-DC converters in space-constrained embedded computing and battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE4030-150 datasheet, MPL-SE4030-150 pinout (though leadless), MPL-SE4030-150 application in buck converters or input filters, or MPL-SE4030-150 equivalent inductors for thermal or saturation margin trade-offs, this page delivers verified electrical specs, thermal behavior context, and real-world layout-aware performance limits.

Technical Context

This inductor employs a semi-shielded ferrite core construction that balances magnetic shielding and thermal dissipation, enabling low stray field (<10% flux leakage vs. unshielded) while maintaining +125°C max operating temperature including self-heating. Its 4.0 mm × 4.0 mm × 3.0 mm footprint supports high-density PCB layouts.

Inductance is characterized at 100 kHz / 100 mA; saturation threshold is defined by 30% L-drop at both 25°C and 100°C ambient, reflecting derated magnetic performance under thermal stress - critical for sustained load conditions in automotive or industrial SMPS.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Semi-shielded molded SMD inductor, 4.0 mm × 4.0 mm × 3.0 mm (L×W×H), land pattern per MPS Rev. 1.2 spec - no exposed terminals; solderable bottom electrodes only.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-SE4030-150 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered IoT nodes, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing power supplies requiring stable component supply across production ramps and long-lifecycle deployments.

Supply support for MPL-SE4030-150 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 magnetics, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

The MPL-SE series targets compact, thermally robust DC-DC filtering in space- and efficiency-critical applications - developed specifically for next-generation portable and industrial power systems demanding low-profile magnetics with predictable saturation behavior.

FAQ

What is the recommended PCB land pattern for MPL-SE4030-150?

The official land pattern per Rev. 1.2 datasheet specifies two 3.6 mm × 2.6 mm copper pads spaced 2.4 mm center-to-center, with 0.3 mm solder mask opening clearance. Thermal vias under each pad (minimum 4×0.3 mm) are strongly advised to maintain ΔT ≤ 40 K at full rated current.

How does temperature affect saturation current in this inductor?

Saturation current drops from 1.8 A at 25°C to 1.47 A at 100°C ambient - a 18% reduction - due to ferrite permeability decline with temperature. This derating must be applied when sizing for worst-case thermal environments like sealed enclosures or stacked PCBs.

Can MPL-SE4030-150 replace unshielded inductors in noise-sensitive applications?

Yes - its semi-shielded construction reduces radiated EMI by ≥70% compared to equivalent unshielded inductors, making it suitable for proximity to RF sections or analog sensor circuits where magnetic coupling must be minimized.

Is this inductor RoHS and REACH compliant?

Yes - MPL-SE4030-150 is lead-free, halogen-free, and fully compliant with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006, as confirmed in the MPS Green Status documentation and material declarations.

What is the typical impedance profile across frequency?

Impedance rises linearly from ~1 Ω at 1 MHz to peak at ~25 MHz (25 MHz resonance), then falls as capacitive reactance dominates. At 2 MHz (common buck frequency), impedance is ~12 Ω - sufficient for effective ripple attenuation without excessive AC resistance penalty.

How does DCR tolerance impact thermal design?

DCR maximum is 230 mΩ - 24% higher than typical (185 mΩ). Thermal modeling must use 230 mΩ to ensure worst-case temperature rise stays within the 40 K limit, especially in multi-layer boards with limited copper area.