Editorial Technical Reference

Pulse Transformer

This page explains how Pulse Transformer is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A transformer designed specifically to handle and isolate high-frequency digital pulse signals within Ethernet communication circuits.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Pulse Transformer

Definition
A pulse transformer is a specialized component used in the Magnetics Module of an Ethernet Network Interface Card (NIC). Its primary role is to provide electrical isolation, impedance matching, and common-mode noise rejection for the differential data signals transmitted and received over the Ethernet cable. This ensures signal integrity and compliance with communication standards. The transformer operates by electromagnetic induction: a voltage pulse applied to the primary winding creates a changing magnetic field in the core, which induces a corresponding voltage pulse in the secondary winding, transferring the signal while maintaining galvanic isolation between the primary and secondary circuits. It is optimized for the high-frequency, square-wave nature of digital Ethernet signals. Typical parameters for Ethernet isolation include a turns ratio of 1:1, an open-circuit inductance of 350 µH at 100 kHz, a maximum leakage inductance of 0.5 µH, and a maximum interwinding capacitance of 30 pF. The isolation voltage is rated at 1500 V RMS for 1 minute per IEC 60950. Operating temperature ranges from -40 to 85 °C. Insertion loss is 1.0 dB maximum at 100 MHz, return loss is -18 dB minimum, and common mode rejection is -35 dB minimum. DC resistance is 0.5 Ω maximum per winding. Typical package size is 12.7 x 7.0 x 5.0 mm (SMD) and weight is 1.5 g. Materials include a ferrite core, enameled copper wire, insulating bobbin, and epoxy resin for encapsulation. These values are reference ranges; verify model-specific specifications with the manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
The pulse transformer operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. A voltage pulse applied to the primary winding creates a changing magnetic field in the ferrite core. This changing field induces a corresponding voltage pulse in the secondary winding, transferring the signal while providing galvanic isolation between the primary and secondary circuits. The transformer is designed to handle high-frequency, square-wave signals typical of Ethernet, with low leakage inductance and interwinding capacitance to preserve signal integrity. The core material and winding configuration are optimized for minimal distortion and common-mode rejection.
Common Materials
Ferrite Core, Enameled Copper Wire, Insulating Bobbin, Epoxy Resin (for potting/encapsulation)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Turns Ratio1:1Typical for Ethernet isolation
Inductance350 µHOpen-circuit inductance at 100 kHz
Leakage Inductance0.5 µHMax at 100 kHz
Interwinding Capacitance30 pFMax, affects common-mode rejection
Isolation Voltage1500 V RMSHi-pot test for 1 minuteIEC 60950
Operating Temperature-40–85 °CExtended range available
Insertion Loss1.0 dBMax at 100 MHz
Return Loss-18 dBMin at 100 MHz
Common Mode Rejection-35 dBMin at 100 MHz
DC Resistance0.5 ΩMax per winding
Package Size12.7 x 7.0 x 5.0 mmSMD type, typical
Weight1.5 gTypical

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

Components / BOM
  • Ferrite Core Part
    Provides a high-permeability path for the magnetic flux, concentrating the field and enabling efficient energy transfer at high frequencies with low core losses.
    Material: Ferrite (e.g., MnZn)
  • Primary Winding Part
    The input coil where the signal pulse from the Ethernet PHY (Physical Layer) chip is applied, creating the initial changing magnetic field.
    Material: Enameled Copper Wire
  • Secondary Winding Part
    The output coil where the signal is induced and delivered to the Ethernet magnetics module's common-mode choke and connector interface.
    Material: Enameled Copper Wire
  • Bobbin Part
    A structural insulator that holds and separates the windings, provides mechanical support, and ensures proper creepage and clearance distances for the isolation rating.
    Material: Plastic (e.g., PBT, LCP)

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
voltage: Up to 1500V RMS isolation voltage
frequency: 1 MHz to 100 MHz
other spec: Impedance matching: 50Ω or 100Ω typical
temperature: -40°C to +125°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Ethernet PHY circuits ✓ Digital signal isolation applications ✓ PoE (Power over Ethernet) systems
Unsuitable: High-voltage AC power transmission environments
Sizing Data Required
  • Required data rate (e.g., 10/100/1000 Mbps)
  • Isolation voltage requirement
  • Impedance matching specification

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Insulation breakdown
Cause: Thermal degradation from overheating due to excessive current, voltage spikes, or poor cooling; moisture ingress compromising dielectric strength; aging of insulation materials.
Winding failure (open or short circuit)
Cause: Mechanical stress from thermal cycling causing solder joint fatigue or wire breakage; insulation failure leading to inter-turn or layer-to-layer shorts; manufacturing defects like poor winding tension.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible buzzing, humming, or arcing sounds indicating loose windings, core issues, or insulation breakdown
  • Visible signs like discoloration, bulging, or oil leakage (if oil-filled), or burnt odor suggesting overheating or internal faults
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular thermal imaging inspections to detect hotspots from poor connections, overloads, or cooling issues before catastrophic failure
  • Use surge protection devices and ensure proper voltage/current ratings to prevent electrical stress; maintain environmental controls (temperature, humidity) to protect insulation integrity

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
IEC 60076-16:2018 (Power transformers - Part 16: Transformers for wind turbine applications) ANSI/IEEE C57.12.01-2015 (General Requirements for Dry-Type Distribution and Power Transformers) EN 61558-2-16:2013 (Safety of transformers, reactors, power supply units and similar products for supply voltages up to 1 100 V - Part 2-16: Particular requirements and tests for switch mode power supply units and transformers for switch mode power supply units)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Turns ratio: +/-1%
  • Insulation resistance: >100 MΩ at 500 VDC
Quality Inspection
  • High-potential (Hi-Pot) test: 2.5 x rated voltage + 2,000 V for 1 minute
  • Inductance measurement: +/-10% of specified value at 1 kHz

Manufacturers of Pulse Transformer

2 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

IHUA INDUSTRIES CO.,LTD.
Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shinhom
Shaanxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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.

Supply Chain Compatible Machinery & Devices

Industrial Smart Camera Module

The Industrial Smart Camera Module is a compact, self-contained vision processing unit designed for integration into industrial machinery and production lines.

Explore Specs →
Surface Mount Resistor

Passive electronic component for current limiting and voltage division in circuits

Explore Specs →
Surface Mount Capacitor

A surface mount capacitor is a fundamental electronic component used for energy storage, filtering, coupling, and decoupling in electronic circuits.

Explore Specs →
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Pick-and-Place Machine

Automated machine that precisely places electronic components onto printed circuit boards.

Explore Specs →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a pulse transformer in Ethernet circuits?

It provides electrical isolation, impedance matching, and common-mode noise rejection for differential data signals, ensuring signal integrity and compliance with standards.

What are typical electrical parameters for an Ethernet pulse transformer?

Typical values include a turns ratio of 1:1, inductance of 350 µH at 100 kHz, leakage inductance of 0.5 µH max, interwinding capacitance of 30 pF max, and isolation voltage of 1500 V RMS per IEC 60950.

How does the pulse transformer achieve isolation?

It uses electromagnetic induction with a ferrite core. The primary and secondary windings are galvanically isolated, transferring signals via a changing magnetic field without direct electrical connection.

What should I verify before selecting a pulse transformer?

Verify model-specific values for turns ratio, inductance, isolation voltage, operating temperature, and package size with the manufacturer or supplier, as listed values are reference ranges.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

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.
Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Pulse Transformer

Ask for use case, specification boundaries, supplier type, and RFQ preparation information for this product.

Where it goes
Straight to the CNFX editorial desk, and to the manufacturer if this product is linked to a claimed profile. Nothing is broadcast to a supplier list.
Your details stay here
We do not sell or rent enquiry data, and we do not add you to a mailing list. Used only to answer this request.
No commission, no middleman
CNFX is a directory. We take no cut of any order and never negotiate on a supplier's behalf.
What we don't claim
A listing is not an endorsement. Qualify every supplier and verify every figure yourself before ordering.

Your business information is used only to process this request.

Thank you! Your message has been sent. We'll respond within 1–3 business days.
Sorry, we couldn't send your message. Please try again, or email us at contact@cnfx.com.

Need to Manufacture Pulse Transformer?

Compare manufacturer profiles with relevant product and process capability.

Previous Product
XY Positioning Stage
Last Product
Get QuotesChat