Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-SE6040-150

Overview

MPL-SE6040-150 from Monolithic Power Systems is a semi-shielded power inductor with 15 µH nominal inductance (±20%), 70 mΩ typical DCR, 2.8 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 2.7 A saturation current at 25°C. It features a 6 mm × 6 mm × 4 mm SMD package, 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-SE6040-150 datasheet, MPL-SE6040-150 pinout (two-terminal SMD device), MPL-SE6040-150 application in buck converter output filters, or MPL-SE6040-150 equivalent for 15 µH power inductors with ≤87 mΩ DCR and ≥2.4 A ISAT at 100°C, this page delivers verified electrical, thermal, and mechanical specifications 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 fields without full magnetic shielding penalties. Its 16 MHz self-resonant frequency supports stable operation up to high switching frequencies (e.g., 1–2 MHz).

Thermal performance is characterized under standardized PCB conditions (single-layer, 35 µm Cu, 30×50 mm), with rated current defined by 40 K temperature rise and saturation current defined by 30% inductance drop - both measured at specified ambient temperatures (25°C and 100°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Two-terminal surface-mount device in a semi-shielded molded epoxy package measuring 6.0 mm × 6.0 mm × 4.0 mm (L×W×H), with bottom-side solder pads conforming to land pattern per MPS Rev. 1.1 drawing. No polarity marking; terminals are electrically symmetric.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-SE6040-150 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered devices, high-efficiency SMPS, and embedded computing applications requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MPL-SE6040-150 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 infrastructure.

The MPL-SE series targets space-constrained, thermally demanding DC-DC applications, delivering optimized inductance-to-DCR ratios and robust thermal performance for next-generation power conversion in portable and industrial systems.

FAQ

What is the exact physical size and mounting footprint of MPL-SE6040-150?

The device measures 6.0 mm × 6.0 mm × 4.0 mm (L×W×H) with a two-pad bottom termination. Land pattern dimensions per MPS Rev. 1.1 specify 4.5 mm pad length, 2.2 mm pad width, and 6.5 mm center-to-center spacing. No thermal pad or exposed metal base is present.

How does the 2.7 A saturation current at 25°C translate to real-world buck converter design?

At 25°C ambient, the inductor maintains ≥70% of its 15 µH value up to 2.7 A peak current. In a 12 V → 3.3 V/2 A buck converter switching at 1 MHz, this supports peak currents ~2.5 A, ensuring stable operation without inductance collapse during transient load steps.

Is MPL-SE6040-150 suitable for automotive applications?

While not AEC-Q200 qualified, its –40°C to +125°C operating range, halogen-free construction, and stable parametric performance under thermal stress make it viable for non-safety-critical automotive infotainment or body electronics - subject to system-level validation per ISO 16750.

What is the significance of "semi-shielded" versus fully shielded inductors in layout design?

Semi-shielded inductors use a partial magnetic barrier that contains most flux while allowing easier thermal dissipation and lower cost than fully shielded types. They require ≥3 mm clearance from sensitive traces but avoid the height penalty and saturation trade-offs of toroidal or molded shielded variants.

Can MPL-SE6040-150 replace older through-hole inductors like MSS1278-153?

No - MSS1278-153 is a larger, through-hole, fully shielded part (12.7 mm × 12.7 mm × 8.5 mm). MPL-SE6040-150 is an SMD-only solution with different thermal path, saturation profile, and PCB mounting requirements; direct replacement requires layout redesign and revalidation of ripple and thermal performance.

Does the 15 µH tolerance of ±20% affect stability in closed-loop DC-DC controllers?

Yes - ±20% inductance variation impacts current-loop bandwidth and output impedance. Designers must verify loop stability across the full tolerance range using worst-case simulation or hardware testing, especially in fast-transient applications like CPU core supplies.