CTX68-3A-R
AI

The **CTX68-3A-R** is a high-performance, shielded power inductor designed primarily for DC-DC converters and energy storage applications. It is manufactured by **Eaton (formerly Cooper Bussmann)** as part of the Octa-Pac® PLUS series.
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### 1. Key Technical Specifications
The following table highlights the primary electrical and physical characteristics of the CTX68-3A-R:
| Parameter | Value / Specification |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Inductance** | 68 µH (Nominal) |
| **Current Rating (Irms)** | 1.11 Amperes |
| **Saturation Current (Isat)** | 0.94 Amperes |
| **DC Resistance (DCR)** | 0.282 Ohms (Max) |
| **Tolerance** | ±20% |
| **Operating Temperature** | -40°C to +125°C |
| **Package Type** | Surface Mount (SMD) |
| **Shielding** | Toroidal (Low EMI) |
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### 2. Core Functional Features
* **Dual Winding Design:** The CTX series often features two windings that can be connected in series or parallel. This allows the component to function as an inductor, a 1:1 transformer, or a common-mode choke.
* **Magnetic Shielding:** Its toroidal structure naturally contains the magnetic flux, which minimizes Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) with surrounding sensitive components on the PCB.
* **High Power Density:** Designed to handle significant current relative to its small surface-mount footprint.
* **AEC-Q200 Compliance:** Many parts in this series are automotive-grade, ensuring high reliability under mechanical stress and temperature fluctuations.
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### 3. Common Applications
The CTX68-3A-R is typically found in the following electronic circuits:
1. **Buck/Boost Converters:** Used for energy storage to smooth out voltage ripples.
2. **SEPIC Topologies:** Utilizing the dual-winding nature for single-ended primary-inductor converters.
3. **Noise Filtering:** Acts as a common-mode choke to filter out high-frequency noise in power lines.
4. **Battery Powered Devices:** Ideal for portable electronics due to its efficiency and compact SMD profile.
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### 4. Part Number Breakdown
* **CTX:** Series designation (Octa-Pac®).
* **68:** Inductance value in microhenries (µH).
* **3:** Size/Power rating code.
* **A:** Specific design variation or internal revision.
* **R:** RoHS compliant (Lead-free).
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What is the difference between connecting the windings in series versus parallel for this part?
- ⤷ Are there recommended substitutes with a higher saturation current?
- ⤷ How does the CTX68-3A-R perform in high-frequency switching environments above 500kHz?