The **DFE201610E-R68M** is a power inductor manufactured by Murata Manufacturing. It is part of the DFE series, which is specifically designed for high-efficiency DC-DC conversion in compact electronic devices like smartphones and wearables. --- ### 1. Key Technical Specifications The part number defines the physical and electrical characteristics of the component. | Parameter | Specification | Details | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance** | 0.68 µH | Rated at 1MHz | | **Tolerance** | ±20% | Indicated by the "M" suffix | | **DC Resistance (Max)** | 35 mΩ | Low resistance for high efficiency | | **Rated Current (Isat)** | 4.4 A | Based on inductance change (-30%) | | **Rated Current (Itemp)** | 3.5 A | Based on temperature rise (40°C) | | **Dimensions (LxWxH)** | 2.0 x 1.6 x 1.0 mm | Standard 0806 (inch) / 2016 (metric) case | | **Operating Temp** | -40°C to 125°C | Automotive/Industrial grade range | --- ### 2. Structural Characteristics This inductor uses a **Metal Alloy Core** construction, which offers several advantages over traditional ferrite cores: * **Metal Powder Material:** The core is made of iron powder bonded with resin. This allows for a higher saturation current because the "air gap" is distributed throughout the material. * **Soft Saturation:** Unlike ferrite inductors that drop inductance sharply when over-current occurs, this part exhibits a "soft" saturation curve, making the circuit more stable. * **Magnetic Shielding:** The molded structure provides inherent magnetic shielding, reducing Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) with surrounding components. --- ### 3. Application Use-Cases Due to its small footprint (2.0mm x 1.6mm) and low profile (1.0mm), it is commonly used in: 1. **Smartphones & Tablets:** Power management IC (PMIC) circuits. 2. **Wearable Devices:** Smartwatches and fitness trackers requiring high power density. 3. **POL (Point of Load) Converters:** Efficient voltage regulation near the CPU or GPU. 4. **HDD/SSD Controllers:** Compact power rails for storage devices. --- ### 4. Part Number Breakdown `DFE` `201610` `E` - `R68` `M` * **DFE:** Series name (Metal Alloy Inductor). * **201610:** Size dimensions (2.0 x 1.6 x 1.0 mm). * **E:** Material/Structure code. * **R68:** Inductance value (R68 = 0.68 microhenries). * **M:** Tolerance (M = ±20%).