Despite the emphasis on low-power applications, we always seem to need more current. The low-loss LL series of toroidal inductors from J.W. Miller use a ferrous alloy powder core to handle currents to 34A, with inductances between 1 and 1000µH. The through-hole devices measure 22mm diameter through 33mm, depending on inductance, and are priced beginning at $2 in OEM quantity.
Pulse/Technitrol has released the PG0200 power cube inductors, measuring 16313.239.2mm. Capable of handling 60A maximum peak, but targeted at 19 to 45A loads, you can get these in inductors with values from 0.22 to 1.8µH, while their dc resistance is just 0.60 to 3mµ. Pricing is 25 cents in 100k lots.
Inductor vendors still have to push the boundaries of smaller-size and higher-current capability, despite the attention of the "low-power" trend.CoEv Magnetics/Tyco Electronics has its DZM Series of lead-free power inductors, which the vendor states is especially designed to eliminate thermal-aging effects and stress-related failures. For currents up to 50A, with inductance values ranging from 0.1 to 3.0µH, these 38-cent inductors are 1331336mm.
Bill Schweber
Pulse Engineering/Technitrolwww.pulseeng.comJ.W. Miller Co.www.jwmiller.com CoEv Magnetics/Tyco Electronicswww.tycoelectronics.com
