Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE6040-100

Overview

MPL-SE6040-100 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 10 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 41 mΩ typical DCR, 3.8 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 3.4 A saturation current at 25°C. It features a 6 mm × 6 mm × 4 mm footprint, operates from –40°C to +125°C, and is optimized for high-efficiency DC-DC converters in battery-powered embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-SE6040-100 datasheet, MPL-SE6040-100 pinout (two-terminal SMT device), MPL-SE6040-100 application in buck converter output filters, or MPL-SE6040-100 equivalent for 10 µH/3–4 A power inductors, this page delivers verified electrical specs, thermal behavior context, package dimensions, and real-world selection guidance aligned with MPS Rev. 1.1 documentation.

Technical Context

This inductor is designed for continuous conduction mode (CCM) operation in synchronous buck regulators, where low DCR minimizes I²R losses and semi-shielded construction suppresses stray magnetic coupling to adjacent components. Its 21 MHz self-resonant frequency ensures stable performance beyond typical switching frequencies up to 2 MHz.

The rated current (3.8 A) reflects thermal rise under standardized PCB conditions (35 µm Cu, 30×50 mm single-layer), while the 30% inductance drop criterion at 25°C and 100°C defines two distinct saturation thresholds-critical for transient load handling and thermal derating in compact industrial power supplies.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal surface-mount power inductor, MPL-SE6040-100 has no active pins or signal routing; it connects across power and return paths via its bottom-side solder pads. The device uses a semi-shielded molded construction in a 6.0 mm × 6.0 mm × 4.0 mm rectangular package with land pattern optimized for thermal dissipation and mechanical stability.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-SE6040-100 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable devices, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing power rails requiring stable component supply, consistent thermal performance, and RoHS-compliant magnetics.

Supply support for MPL-SE6040-100 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 integrated passive components, headquartered in Kirkland, WA.

The MPL-SE series targets high-density, thermally constrained DC-DC applications where low-profile, semi-shielded magnetics are required to replace discrete inductor + ferrite bead solutions in space-limited power stages.

FAQ

What is the recommended PCB layout for optimal thermal performance?

Use a 30 mm × 50 mm single-layer copper area (35 µm thick) under the inductor with thermal vias to inner/ground planes. Maintain ≥1.5 mm clearance from other heat-generating components and avoid routing sensitive analog traces within 5 mm of the device edges to minimize coupling.

How does saturation current change between 25°C and 100°C ambient?

ISAT drops from 3.4 A at 25°C to 2.8 A at 100°C ambient due to reduced core permeability and increased winding resistance. This 18% reduction must be accounted for in worst-case transient analysis where both ambient and self-heating contribute to total temperature.

Is MPL-SE6040-100 suitable for automotive applications?

Yes-it meets AEC-Q200 stress test recommendations for temperature cycling and humidity exposure, and its –40°C to +125°C operating range covers extended temperature automotive cabin and infotainment use cases when mounted per MPS land pattern guidelines.

Can this inductor replace a toroidal or drum-core inductor in an existing design?

Only if the original design accommodates 6 mm × 6 mm footprint and 4 mm height. Electrical replacement requires matching inductance tolerance, DCR, and saturation current; MPL-SE6040-100's semi-shielded structure also reduces need for additional EMI shielding compared to unshielded alternatives.

What is the meaning of "semi-shielded" in this context?

Semi-shielded means the inductor uses a partially enclosed magnetic core (typically composite powder with molded resin cap), providing ~70% magnetic flux containment versus fully shielded types. This balances EMI suppression, cost, and thermal performance-ideal for dense layouts where full shielding would impede heat dissipation.

Does the 100 in the part number indicate inductance value?

Yes-the "100" suffix denotes 10 µH using the standard three-digit code: first two digits "10" are significant figures, third digit "0" is multiplier (10⁰), yielding 10 × 1 = 10 µH. Tolerance is ±20%, as specified in the electrical characteristics table.