The **HPC042N-R36MTR** is a high-performance, surface-mount (SMD) power inductor commonly used in DC-DC converters and high-current power supply modules. It is part of a specialized class of inductors designed for high efficiency and compact footprints. --- ### 1. Technical Specifications The following table summarizes the core electrical and physical characteristics of the component: | Feature | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance** | 0.36 µH | | **Tolerance** | ±20% (M) | | **DC Resistance (DCR)** | Typ: ~1.8 mΩ / Max: ~2.2 mΩ | | **Saturation Current (Isat)** | ~28A - 32A (varies by thermal rise) | | **Operating Temperature** | -40°C to +125°C | | **Package Size** | 4.0 x 4.0 x 2.0 mm (approx.) | | **Core Material** | Metal Alloy / Carbonyl Powder | --- ### 2. Part Number Breakdown Understanding the nomenclature helps in identifying variants: * **HPC**: Series prefix (High Power/Current Inductor). * **042**: Dimension code (4.0mm x 4.0mm footprint, ~2.0mm height). * **N**: Internal manufacturing/material code. * **R36**: Inductance value (R36 = 0.36 microhenries). * **M**: Tolerance (M = ±20%). * **TR**: Packaging (Tape and Reel). --- ### 3. Key Electronic Characteristics #### A. High Saturation Current Because it uses a **metal alloy powder core**, this inductor features "soft saturation." Unlike traditional ferrite inductors that drop inductance sharply when current limits are reached, the HPC042N-R36MTR maintains its properties more gracefully under heavy load. #### B. Low DCR (Direct Current Resistance) The 0.36µH value is relatively low, allowing for a thicker internal winding. This results in very low DCR, which minimizes heat generation and power loss (I²R losses), making it ideal for high-efficiency mobile devices. #### C. Magnetic Shielding The molded construction provides inherent magnetic shielding. This reduces Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), preventing the inductor from interfering with sensitive nearby components like CPUs or RF modules. --- ### 4. Typical Applications This component is typically found in: * **Voltage Regulator Modules (VRM):** Powering high-end GPUs and CPUs. * **DC/DC Converters:** Point-of-load (POL) converters in laptops and tablets. * **Battery Powered Devices:** Where space is tight and high efficiency is required to save battery life. ---