The **CTX0.68-2A-R** is a specific surface-mount power inductor from the **OCTA-PAC® PLUS** series, manufactured by Eaton (formerly Cooper Bussmann/Coiltronics). These components are known for their versatility as they contain two identical windings that can be connected in series or parallel. ### 1. Technical Specifications The electrical characteristics vary depending on how the two internal coils are configured: | Property | Parallel Connection | Series Connection | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance ($L$)** | $0.68\ \mu\text{H}$ | $2.72\ \mu\text{H}$ | | **Current Rating ($I_{rms}$)** | $6.4\ \text{A}$ | $3.2\ \text{A}$ | | **Peak Current ($I_{sat}$)** | $10.4\ \text{A}$ | $5.2\ \text{A}$ | | **DCR (Max)** | $0.0113\ \Omega$ | $0.0452\ \Omega$ | --- ### 2. Key Features & Material * **Dual Winding Design:** Allows the part to function as a single inductor, a 1:1 transformer, or a common-mode choke. * **Core Material:** Powdered Iron (higher saturation flux density, suitable for high-frequency DC-DC conversion). * **Shielding:** Generally unshielded, though the toroidal-style shape helps contain magnetic flux compared to open-drum cores. * **Operating Temperature:** Typically rated for $-40^\circ\text{C}$ to $+125^\circ\text{C}$. --- ### 3. Application Use Cases This part is commonly found in power management circuits where high efficiency and high current handling are required: 1. **Buck/Boost Converters:** Used as the energy storage element in voltage regulators. 2. **SEPIC Converters:** The dual-winding nature makes it ideal for SEPIC (Single-Ended Primary-Inductor Converter) topologies where two inductors are needed on a single core. 3. **EMI Filtering:** Can be used as a common-mode choke to filter noise in power lines. 4. **1:1 Transformers:** Useful for isolated flyback converters or providing a secondary auxiliary voltage. --- ### 4. Part Number Breakdown The nomenclature follows a specific logic: * **CTX:** Coiltronics Product Series. * **0.68:** Base inductance value in microhenries ($\mu\text{H}$). * **2A:** Size/Package code (identifies the physical footprint). * **-R:** RoHS compliant (Lead-free).