The **L817PW-R68MF** is a high-performance, surface-mount (SMD) power inductor commonly used in DC-DC converters and high-current power supplies. It is known for its molded construction, which provides excellent magnetic shielding and stability. --- ### 1. Part Number Breakdown Understanding the nomenclature helps identify its specific electrical characteristics: | Code Segment | Meaning | Specification | |:---|:---|:---| | **L817** | Series / Case Size | Typically refers to the physical dimensions (approx. 8.4 x 8.0 mm). | | **PW** | Type/Material | Power Inductor with molded construction. | | **R68** | Inductance Value | **0.68 µH** (R denotes the decimal point). | | **M** | Tolerance | **±20%** (Standard for power inductors). | | **F** | Lead-Free/RoHS | Compliance indicator. | --- ### 2. Key Technical Specifications While exact values can vary slightly by manufacturer (e.g., Cyntec, Mag.Layers), the typical parameters for a **0.68µH** inductor in this size class are: * **Inductance:** 0.68 µH * **DC Resistance (DCR):** Low (typically between 2.0mΩ to 5.0mΩ) to minimize power loss. * **Saturation Current ($I_{sat}$):** The current at which inductance drops by ~30%. Usually ranges from **18A to 25A**. * **Heating Current ($I_{rms}$):** The current that causes a 40°C temperature rise. Usually ranges from **15A to 20A**. * **Operating Temperature:** -40°C to +125°C. --- ### 3. Construction Features The "PW" series usually denotes a **Molded Powder Inductor**: * **Core Material:** Metal alloy powder (Iron-based). * **Shielding:** Integrated magnetic shielding which significantly reduces EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). * **Acoustic Noise:** Molded design minimizes "buzzing" or magnetostriction noise. * **Reliability:** High resistance to thermal shock and mechanical vibration. --- ### 4. Common Applications Due to its high current handling and low profile, this part is found in: 1. **Voltage Regulator Modules (VRMs):** Powering CPUs and GPUs in laptops. 2. **Point of Load (POL) Converters:** Step-down converters for FPGA/ASIC. 3. **Battery Powered Devices:** High-efficiency power circuits for portable electronics. 4. **Servers & Networking:** Distributed power systems requiring high density. --- ### 5. Equivalent Comparison If you are searching for alternatives, look for parts in the **8080** or **0808** metric size (approx. 8x8mm) with a 0.68µH value: | Manufacturer | Series | |:---|:---| | **Vishay** | IHLP-3232 series | | **Coilcraft** | XAL8080 series | | **TDK** | SPM8080 series |