When should system-level evaluation take priority over datasheet comparison in BMS designs?
In BMS DC-DC converters, performance is determined by the interaction between the inductor, switching devices, PCB layout, and battery pack environment. Datasheet values alone cannot capture the effects of elevated temperature, DC bias, magnetic coupling, and enclosure-level EMI behavior. System-level evaluation—including thermal measurement, EMI testing, and transient response analysis—should be prioritized whenever safety-critical power rails or precision measurement circuits are involved. This approach ensures that the selected inductor delivers stable, reliable performance across the full operating life of the battery system.