Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE4030-330

Overview

MPL-SE4030-330 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 33 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 330 mΩ typical DCR, 1.1 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 1.2 A saturation current at 25°C-designed for DC-DC converter output filtering in space-constrained embedded computing and battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE4030-330 datasheet, MPL-SE4030-330 thermal derating curve, MPL-SE4030-330 ISAT vs. temperature behavior, or MPL-SE4030-330 footprint compatibility with 4 mm × 4 mm PCB land pattern, this component delivers verified low stray field, +125°C max operating temperature, and RoHS/REACH-compliant halogen-free construction.

Technical Context

This inductor employs a semi-shielded ferrite core structure with molded composite coating to suppress magnetic flux leakage while enabling high saturation performance. Its 33 µH value is specified at 100 kHz / 100 mA, and inductance retention is validated down to 70% of nominal at 1.2 A (25°C) and 0.97 A (100°C).

Thermal performance is characterized on a standardized single-layer PCB (30 mm × 50 mm, 35 µm Cu), where rated current induces a 40 K temperature rise. AC resistance increases with frequency, reaching 1.2 Ω at 10 MHz per impedance curves, supporting stable operation in high-frequency SMPS designs up to 16 MHz self-resonance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal passive inductor, MPL-SE4030-330 has no pinout; it features a surface-mount, semi-shielded molded package measuring 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm × 3.0 mm (L × W × H) with bottom-side solder terminals. The land pattern requires symmetric 2.0 mm × 2.5 mm pads spaced 2.5 mm center-to-center.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-SE4030-330 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing applications requiring stable component supply, consistent thermal performance, and compact 4 mm × 4 mm footprint compliance.

Supply support for MPL-SE4030-330 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 operations.

The MPL-SE series targets space-constrained, thermally demanding DC-DC applications-delivering optimized inductance-current-thermal trade-offs for modern embedded and portable electronics.

FAQ

What is the exact physical size and mounting configuration of MPL-SE4030-330?

The device measures 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm × 3.0 mm (L × W × H) with two bottom-surface solder terminals. It uses a standard 2.0 mm × 2.5 mm pad layout spaced 2.5 mm center-to-center, compatible with reflow soldering per IPC-J-STD-020. No orientation sensitivity exists due to symmetrical terminal geometry.

How does the 330 mΩ DCR impact efficiency in a 1.1 A application?

At 1.1 A DC, conduction loss is P = I²R = (1.1)² × 0.33 ≈ 0.40 W. This directly reduces system efficiency by ~1.2% in a 33 W output stage. The low DCR enables thermal rise within the 40 K limit on the reference PCB, avoiding derating in most layouts.

Can MPL-SE4030-330 replace unshielded inductors in existing designs?

Yes-if footprint and height allow. Its semi-shielded construction reduces radiated EMI and stray coupling, often improving EMC without circuit changes. However, verify inductance tolerance (±20%) and saturation margin against original part's ISAT, especially under elevated ambient temperatures.

What is the significance of the 16 MHz self-resonant frequency?

The 16 MHz SRF indicates the frequency at which inductive reactance equals parasitic capacitance. Since typical buck converters operate below 3 MHz, this margin ensures the device behaves as a pure inductor-avoiding impedance collapse or phase reversal that could destabilize control loops.

Is MPL-SE4030-330 suitable for automotive AEC-Q200 applications?

No-MPL-SE4030-330 is not AEC-Q200 qualified. While its -40°C to +125°C operating range meets automotive ambient requirements, it lacks the stress testing, failure analysis, and qualification documentation required for automotive-grade deployment.

How does ISAT change between 25°C and 100°C, and why?

ISAT drops from 1.2 A at 25°C to 0.97 A at 100°C due to reduced core permeability and increased copper resistance at elevated temperature. This 19% reduction reflects intrinsic ferrite material behavior-not a defect-and must be accounted for in worst-case thermal design.

Does the "330" in the part number indicate 33 µH or 330 µH?

The "330" follows the standard EIA three-digit code: first two digits "33" are significant figures, third digit "0" is multiplier (10⁰), yielding 33 × 1 = 33 µH. This matches all electrical specifications and the datasheet title "33µH".