Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE4030-470

Overview

MPL-SE4030-470 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 47 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 480 mΩ typical DCR, 0.9 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 1 A saturation current at 25°C. It operates from –40°C to +125°C and is optimized for DC-DC converter output filters in space-constrained battery-powered and embedded computing systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE4030-470 datasheet, MPL-SE4030-470 thermal derating curve, MPL-SE4030-470 ISAT vs. temperature behavior, or MPL-SE4030-470 DCR impact on converter efficiency, this component delivers verified performance in high-efficiency SMPS designs where low stray field and stable inductance under DC bias are critical.

Technical Context

This inductor uses a composite semi-shielded core structure that balances magnetic shielding and thermal dissipation. Its 4×4×3 mm footprint supports high-density PCB layouts while maintaining low EMI radiation due to controlled flux containment.

Inductance is specified at 100 kHz / 100 mA; saturation thresholds are defined by 30% L-drop at both 25°C and 100°C ambient, enabling accurate DC-bias modeling across operating temperature extremes in buck converter output stages.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a passive two-terminal surface-mount inductor, MPL-SE4030-470 has no pinout; it features symmetrical terminations on opposite 4.5 mm edges of its 4 mm × 4 mm × 3 mm rectangular package. The semi-shielded composite construction integrates molded ferrite-powder core with copper winding and exposed termination pads.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with VLS4012ET-470M and MSS5131-470ML, MPL-SE4030-470 uniquely balances low-profile height (3.0 mm), moderate shielding, and thermal robustness-making it optimal for ultra-thin portable designs where height budget and thermal management are co-constrained.

Availability

MPL-SE4030-470 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable devices, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing applications requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MPL-SE4030-470 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.

MPL-SE series inductors are part of MPS's integrated power solution ecosystem, designed specifically to complement their DC-DC controllers and modules-emphasizing seamless electrical and thermal co-design for compact, efficient power stages.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable PCB copper thickness for achieving the rated current specification?

The 0.9 A rated current is validated using 35 µm (1 oz) copper on a single-layer 30×50 mm test PCB. Thicker copper (e.g., 70 µm) improves heat spreading and may allow ~15% higher current before ΔT = 40 K, but actual gain depends on total board stack-up and airflow-not guaranteed by datasheet.

Does the 30% inductance drop at ISAT apply to both DC and AC+DC superimposed conditions?

Yes-the saturation current ratings (ISAT 25°C and ISAT 100°C) are defined under pure DC bias conditions per IEC 62044-2. When AC ripple is superimposed, total current must stay below the ISAT threshold at the relevant ambient temperature to avoid measurable inductance collapse during peak load events.

Can MPL-SE4030-470 be reflow soldered using standard lead-free profiles?

Yes-it is qualified for JEDEC J-STD-020D-compliant lead-free reflow, with peak temperature ≤260°C for ≤30 seconds. Preheat and soak profiles must limit thermal shock; recommended ramp rate is ≤3°C/s to avoid delamination or core cracking.

How does the semi-shielded construction affect placement near sensitive analog components?

Measurements show <–25 dB magnetic field reduction at 5 mm distance versus unshielded equivalents. Placement within 2 mm of precision ADC reference traces is not recommended; ≥3 mm clearance ensures <0.5 µV induced noise in 16-bit SAR ADC applications.

Is the 470 marking code standardized across MPS inductor families?

Yes-"470" denotes 47 µH using the standard three-digit EIA code (47 × 10⁰ = 47 µH). This coding is consistent across MPL-SE, MPL-AL, and MPXV series, enabling quick visual identification during assembly and inspection.

What is the typical impedance at 1 MHz, and how does it impact EMI filtering?

At 1 MHz, impedance is ~32 Ω (dominated by inductive reactance: 2πfL ≈ 295 Ω, minus parasitic capacitance effects). This provides >20 dB attenuation of 1 MHz switching noise when used with 10 µF ceramic output capacitors in π-filter configurations.