INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Series Inductor

Series inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through it, used for filtering, impedance matching, and energy storage in circuits.

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Component Specifications

Definition
A series inductor is an essential passive component in electronic circuits, characterized by its inductance measured in henries (H). It consists of a coil of conductive wire wound around a core material (air, ferrite, or powdered iron). When placed in series within a circuit, it opposes changes in current flow due to its property of self-inductance, creating a magnetic field that stores energy. In industrial applications like Input Matching Networks, it is crucial for impedance transformation, filtering out high-frequency noise, and ensuring efficient power transfer between stages of RF and power electronics systems.
Working Principle
The working principle is based on Faraday's Law of Induction and Lenz's Law. When alternating current (AC) flows through the inductor, a changing magnetic field is generated around the coil. This induces a back electromotive force (EMF) that opposes the change in current, resulting in inductive reactance (XL = 2πfL, where f is frequency and L is inductance). In series configurations, it acts as a frequency-dependent resistor, blocking high-frequency signals while allowing low-frequency or DC currents to pass, enabling functions like low-pass filtering and impedance matching.
Materials
Copper or aluminum wire for windings; core materials include air (for high-frequency, low-loss applications), ferrite (for high permeability and frequency stability up to MHz range), powdered iron (for high saturation flux density in power applications), or laminated silicon steel (for low-frequency power inductors). Insulation materials such as enamel, polyester, or polyimide coat the wire. Encapsulation may use epoxy resin or thermoplastic housings for protection.
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Q Factor10 to 100 at specified frequency
Tolerance±5% to ±20%
Current Rating100 mA to 50 A
Inductance Range1 nH to 100 mH
Saturation CurrentSpecified at 10-30% inductance drop
DC Resistance (DCR)0.01 Ω to 10 Ω
Operating Temperature-40°C to +125°C
Self Resonant Frequency (SRF)1 MHz to 1 GHz

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
IEC 62368-1, IEC 61558-1, ISO 9001, AEC-Q200

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Input Matching Network

A passive electronic circuit that optimizes signal transfer between a source and a low-noise amplifier (LNA) by minimizing reflections and maximizing power transfer at the input stage.

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Output Matching Network

A circuit network that matches the output impedance of a Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA) to the subsequent stage or load impedance to maximize power transfer and minimize signal reflection.

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Antenna Interface / Matching Network

Circuit component that interfaces the transmitter output with the antenna while optimizing impedance matching for maximum power transfer and signal integrity.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Overheating due to excessive current causing core saturation or insulation failure
  • Mechanical damage from vibration or shock leading to open windings
  • Parameter drift with temperature changes affecting circuit performance
  • Resonance issues if operating near SRF causing unexpected impedance behavior
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Core saturation from exceeding current rating
Failure: Sudden drop in inductance, overheating, potential short circuit
Mitigation: Design with derating (use inductors rated at 150% of max operating current), implement current monitoring circuits, select cores with high saturation flux density
Trigger: Poor soldering or mechanical stress
Failure: Intermittent or open connections, circuit malfunction
Mitigation: Follow IPC soldering standards, use strain relief in wiring, perform mechanical stress testing, apply conformal coating for protection
Trigger: Operating at frequencies near SRF
Failure: Loss of inductive behavior, increased impedance unpredictability, circuit instability
Mitigation: Select inductors with SRF at least 10x above operating frequency, simulate circuit behavior, use network analyzers for verification

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Inductance tolerance typically ±10% or ±20% per IEC standards; electrical isolation tested at 500V AC for 1 minute
Test Method
Inductance measured using LCR meter at specified frequency (e.g., 1 kHz for power inductors, 100 MHz for RF); DCR measured with four-wire ohmmeter; thermal cycling per IEC 60068-2-14

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Series Inductor

Manufacturer profiles associated with Series Inductor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a series inductor in an Input Matching Network?

In an Input Matching Network, a series inductor is used to transform impedance between source and load, ensuring maximum power transfer by compensating for capacitive or resistive mismatches, and filtering out unwanted high-frequency noise.

How do I select the right series inductor for my application?

Consider key parameters: required inductance value, current rating (both RMS and saturation), frequency range (ensure SRF is above operating frequency), DCR for power loss, core material for frequency response, and physical size. Always refer to datasheets and application notes.

Can series inductors be used in DC circuits?

Yes, but they primarily affect AC components. In DC circuits, they act as short circuits (low resistance) to steady-state DC, while filtering AC ripples or transients, making them useful in power supply filters.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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