The **MPL-AY3020-R68** is a high-performance, molded power inductor manufactured by **Monolithic Power Systems (MPS)**. It is part of the MPL-AY series, designed specifically for high-density power conversion applications. --- ### 1. Key Technical Specifications | Parameter | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance** | 0.68 µH | | **Tolerance** | ±20% | | **DC Resistance (DCR)** | 9.0 mΩ (Typical) | | **Saturation Current ($I_{sat}$)** | 11.5 A (Typical) | | **Heating Current ($I_{rms}$)** | 9.0 A (Typical) | | **Operating Temperature** | -40°C to +125°C | | **Package Size** | 3.5mm x 3.2mm x 2.0mm | --- ### 2. Physical Construction and Technology The part utilizes **molded powder technology**, which offers several advantages over traditional wire-wound inductors: * **Magnetic Shielding:** The molded construction naturally shields the component, significantly reducing Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) which is critical in compact electronics. * **High Power Density:** The 3020 package (3.0mm x 2.0mm nominal footprint) allows for high current handling in a very small PCB area. * **Soft Saturation:** Unlike ferrite core inductors that drop inductance sharply when current limits are reached, this molded metal powder core exhibits "soft" saturation characteristics, providing better stability under heavy loads. --- ### 3. Common Applications Due to its low DCR and high saturation current, the MPL-AY3020-R68 is primarily used in: * **DC/DC Converters:** Specifically for Point-of-Load (POL) modules. * **Portable Electronics:** Smartphones, tablets, and laptops where height (2.0mm) is a constraint. * **Battery Powered Devices:** High efficiency (low DCR) extends battery life by minimizing power loss as heat. * **Distributed Power Systems:** Used in FPGA and DSP power rails. --- ### 4. Decoding the Part Number * **MPL:** MPS Inductor Series prefix. * **AY:** Refers to the specific material/series type (often High-Efficiency/Molded). * **3020:** The physical dimensions (approx. 3.0mm x 2.0mm). * **R68:** The inductance value. "R" acts as a decimal point, meaning **0.68 µH**.