Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE5040-150

Overview

MPL-SE5040-150 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 15 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 83 mΩ typical DCR, 2.5 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 2.9 A saturation current at 25°C. It features a 4.9 mm × 4.9 mm × 4.0 mm SMD footprint, operates from –40°C to +125°C, and is optimized for high-efficiency DC/DC converters in battery-powered and embedded computing systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE5040-150 datasheet, MPL-SE5040-150 pinout (though non-pin device), MPL-SE5040-150 application in buck converter output filters, or MPL-SE5040-150 equivalent inductor alternatives, this component delivers verified thermal performance, low stray field, and RoHS/REACH-compliant halogen-free construction under real PCB layout constraints.

Technical Context

This inductor is designed for continuous conduction mode (CCM) operation in synchronous buck regulators, where stable inductance under DC bias and minimal core loss at 100 kHz–16 MHz are critical. Its semi-shielded construction balances magnetic shielding and thermal dissipation, supporting reliable operation up to +125°C ambient including self-heating.

Inductance is specified at 100 kHz / 100 mA; saturation threshold is defined by 30% L-drop at both 25°C and 100°C - enabling accurate current limit design across temperature extremes. Typical self-resonant frequency of 16 MHz confirms suitability for switching frequencies ≤2 MHz with minimal impedance roll-off.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal surface-mount inductor, MPL-SE5040-150 has no active pins or signal assignments. It uses a standard bottom-termination land pattern (4.9 mm × 4.9 mm) with internal coil structure encapsulated in semi-shielded molded ferrite. Dimensions: 4.9 mm × 4.9 mm × 4.0 mm (L × W × H); marking "150" denotes 15 µH.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-SE5040-150 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing applications requiring stable component supply with guaranteed thermal performance and RoHS/REACH compliance.

Supply support for MPL-SE5040-150 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 passive components, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

The MPL-SE series is engineered specifically for space-constrained, thermally demanding DC/DC converter applications - emphasizing low-loss magnetics, predictable saturation behavior, and robust SMT manufacturability in consumer, industrial, and automotive power systems.

FAQ

What is the recommended PCB land pattern for MPL-SE5040-150?

The official land pattern is 4.9 mm × 4.9 mm copper pads with 0.5 mm solder mask opening per terminal, matching the device's bottom termination footprint. Thermal relief vias under the pad are recommended for improved heat dissipation, especially in high-current designs exceeding 2 A continuous.

How does the 30% inductance drop definition affect circuit design?

The saturation current (ISAT) is defined as the DC current causing 30% inductance reduction at specified ambient temperature. This threshold informs peak current limits in transient analysis - exceeding it risks increased ripple, reduced regulation accuracy, and potential control loop instability in current-mode controllers.

Can MPL-SE5040-150 replace an unshielded inductor in an existing design?

Yes, but only if layout clearance allows. Its semi-shielded construction reduces stray field by ~60% versus unshielded equivalents, lowering EMI risk - however, height (4.0 mm) may require mechanical revalidation, and DCR tolerance (±20%) must be verified against original thermal targets.

Is the 40 K temperature rise measured under JEDEC standards?

No - the 40 K ΔT is measured per MPS-defined test condition: single-layer 30×50 mm PCB, 35 µm copper, still air. JEDEC JESD51-2A specifies multi-layer boards; thus, actual system-level rise may differ and requires board-specific thermal simulation or measurement.

What does the "150" marking indicate on the device body?

The "150" laser-marked code represents the nominal inductance value: "15" followed by one zero = 15 × 10⁰ = 15 µH. This follows the standard three-digit EIA marking convention used across MPS's shielded and semi-shielded inductor families.

Does MPL-SE5040-150 support AEC-Q200 stress testing?

No - MPL-SE5040-150 is not AEC-Q200 qualified. While its –40°C to +125°C operating range overlaps automotive requirements, it lacks the extended reliability testing (e.g., vibration, humidity bias, temperature cycling) required for automotive qualification. For AEC-Q200 applications, consult MPS's automotive-grade MPL-AE series.