1. Product Overview: LPS4012 Series

· Type: Shielded Surface Mount Power Inductor
· Series: LPS4012 (Part of a larger family of LPS inductors: LPS3008, LPS3010, LPS3015, LPS4018)
· Application: Designed for power applications, typically in DC-DC converters, filtering, and energy storage.

2. Key Specifications & What They Mean (Referencing the Document)

· Inductance Range: (Although not explicitly listed for *all* values, we can infer a range) Likely between 0.56 µH (microhenries) to 33 µH based on the available kits.
· SRF (Self-Resonant Frequency): Indicates the frequency at which the inductor's reactive inductance essentially disappears, and it starts behaving more like a capacitor. Higher SRF is better for high-frequency operation. The document does not provide the SRF value for each inductor.
· Isat (Saturation Current): The DC current at which the inductance drops to a specified percentage (often 20-30%) of its initial value. This is a critical parameter for power applications as exceeding it causes a significant drop in performance and potential overheating.
· Irms (Root Mean Square Current): The DC current that causes a specified temperature rise (typically 40°C) from ambient. This limits the maximum current the inductor can handle safely without overheating.
· DC Resistance (DCR): Not directly stated in this document, but a crucial factor for efficiency. Lower DCR means less power loss.
· Operating Temperature: Electrical specifications are at 40°C, but the inductor can be used over a range of temperatures (-40°C to +105°C, according to current derating chart).
· Current Derating: The chart showing how Irms and Isat decrease with increasing ambient temperature. This is essential for ensuring reliable operation.

3. Dimensions & Physical Characteristics

· Size: Relatively small form factor for SMT components (not explicitly stated, but typical of LPS4012). See kit details on page 26 and 27.
· Termination: Not specified in terms of plating material, but designed for surface mount soldering.
· Land Pattern: Provides guidance for PCB layout.
· Dimensions are provided in inches and millimeters.

4. Kits Available

· Kit C392: Contains samples of 0.80 µH to 33 µH parts from the LPS3008, LPS3010, and LPS3015 series.
· Kit C401: Contains samples of 0.56 µH to 33 µH parts from the LPS4012 and LPS4018 series.
· Kit C402: Contains samples of 220 µH to 3300 µH parts from all five series.

5. Important Considerations

· Shielding: The "Shielded" designation means the inductor's core is enclosed in a conductive shield, reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) and ensuring that it doesn't affect surrounding components.
· Derating is Key: Always check the current derating chart based on the expected ambient temperature to ensure that Irms and Isat limits are not exceeded.
· PCB Layout: Correct PCB layout, especially the land pattern, is crucial for proper thermal management and solderability.
· Designer's Kit: If you're evaluating these inductors for a new design, obtaining a kit (C392, C401, or C402) is a great way to experiment with different values and see what works best.