FAQ
Technical FAQs for Power Magnetics
This FAQ hub answers the most common technical questions from power engineers, buyers, and sourcing teamsācovering topics such as inductance behavior, saturation current, core materials, EMI, reliability, and production processes.
All answers are written to support application-based design decisions and guide users toward the most suitable Coilmaster solutions.
Molded inductors are a cornerstone of modern power electronics, prized for their compact design and robust performance. But did you know thereās more than one way to create them? Enter the debate: cold...
Read moreAn automotive-grade power inductor is designed to operate reliably under the environmental and electrical stresses typical of vehicle electronics. Beyond basic inductance and current ratings, it must withstand...
Read moreSaturation current decreases at high temperature because the magnetic coreās permeability and magnetic flux density capability degrade as temperature rises, causing the core to reach saturation at a lower...
Read moreFor ECU DC-DC converters, Isat should be evaluated under actual operating conditions, including elevated ambient temperature and self-heating caused by load current. Datasheet values measured at room temperature...
Read moreBoth molded and shielded inductors can be suitable for ECU power rails, depending on system priorities. Molded inductors typically offer lower magnetic flux leakage and more stable EMI performance, making...
Read moreDC resistance (DCR) directly influences conduction losses in power inductors. Higher DCR results in increased heat generation under load, which can raise component temperature and accelerate long-term...
Read moreECU DC-DC converters are often located close to microcontrollers, sensors, and communication interfaces. Magnetic flux leakage from power inductors can couple into nearby signal paths, causing noise, data...
Read moreImproper inductor placement can increase radiated and conducted EMI by allowing magnetic fields to interact with sensitive signal traces or ground structures. High di/dt current loops near inductors may also...
Read moreContinuous vibration and mechanical shock can stress solder joints, terminations, and internal winding structures over time. In automotive ECUs, these stresses accumulate throughout the vehicleās service...
Read moreDatasheet current ratings are often measured under standardized laboratory conditions, typically at room temperature and without accounting for enclosure effects or prolonged thermal stress. In real ECU environments,...
Read moreFlat wire inductors are well suited for ECU DC-DC designs that require high efficiency and low conduction loss. Their wider conductor cross-section reduces DCR, helping improve thermal performance under...
Read moreAutomotive-grade power inductors are designed to operate reliably across wide temperature ranges and under mechanical stress. In addition to electrical specifications, long-term stability and environmental...
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