The **ASTC-04-R68** is a high-performance, surface-mount power inductor designed for high-frequency DC-DC converters and power supply modules. It is engineered to handle high current while maintaining a compact footprint. --- ## 1. Key Technical Specifications Below are the primary electronic characteristics of the ASTC-04-R68: | Parameter | Value | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance** | 0.68 µH | Nominal inductance at specified frequency | | **Tolerance** | ±20% (M) | Variance from the nominal inductance | | **Rated Current (Irms)** | ~9.0 A - 12.0 A | Current that causes a 40°C temperature rise | | **Saturation Current (Isat)** | ~15.0 A - 18.0 A | Current where inductance drops by 30% | | **DC Resistance (DCR)** | ~5.0 - 7.0 mΩ | Typical internal resistance (Max value) | | **Operating Temp** | -40°C to +125°C | Safe operational temperature range | --- ## 2. Core Features & Construction ### Magnetic Material The "ASTC" series typically utilizes a **Metal Alloy / Molded Iron Powder** core. This construction offers several advantages over traditional ferrite cores: * **Soft Saturation:** The inductance does not drop abruptly when current increases. * **Low EMI:** The molded structure acts as a natural shield, reducing electromagnetic interference. ### Design Efficiency The part is designed for **Low DCR (DC Resistance)**, which minimizes power loss through heat (P = I²R). This makes it ideal for battery-operated devices where efficiency is critical. --- ## 3. Typical Applications The ASTC-04-R68 is commonly used in the following electronic circuits: * **Point of Load (POL) Converters:** Used in motherboards and servers to step down voltage near the CPU/GPU. * **Voltage Regulator Modules (VRM):** High-speed switching power supplies. * **Mobile Electronics:** Smartphones and tablets where space is limited but high current is required. * **LED Drivers:** Providing stable current for high-brightness lighting. --- ## 4. Land Pattern (Soldering) *Note: Dimensions are usually in mm.* ```markdown [ Pads ] ___ ___ | | | | | | | | ~4.0mm x 4.0mm Footprint |___| |___| ```