## Overview of CTX8-3A-R The **CTX8-3A-R** is a high-performance, surface-mount (SMD) common-mode choke / power inductor manufactured by **Eaton (formerly Cooper Bussmann/Coiltronics)**. It belongs to the **OCTA-PAC® PLUS** series, which is known for its versatility and ruggedness in power conversion applications. --- ### Technical Specifications The following table outlines the primary electrical and physical characteristics of the CTX8-3A-R: | Parameter | Value | | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance (L)** | 8.3 µH (Typical) | | **Current Rating (Irms)** | 3.5 Amperes | | **DCR (Direct Current Resistance)** | 0.0243 Ohms (Max) | | **Operating Temperature** | -40°C to +125°C | | **Mounting Type** | Surface Mount (SMD) | | **Core Material** | Powdered Iron (High Saturation) | | **Number of Windings** | 2 (Dual Winding) | --- ### Key Features 1. **Dual Winding Design**: The device contains two separate windings that can be connected in series or parallel. This allows it to function as an inductor, a common-mode choke, or a 1:1 transformer. 2. **High Saturation**: Utilizing a powdered iron core, it handles high peak currents without complete magnetic saturation, making it stable under heavy loads. 3. **Shielded Construction**: The design minimizes Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), which is critical for dense PCB layouts. 4. **Robust Packaging**: The "R" suffix indicates that the part is **RoHS compliant** and features lead-free terminations suitable for high-temperature reflow soldering. --- ### Common Applications The CTX8-3A-R is commonly integrated into the following circuits: * **DC-DC Converters**: Used in buck, boost, and forward converters as the main energy storage element. * **Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS)**: Acts as an output filter inductor to smooth voltage ripples. * **Common-Mode Chokes**: Used to suppress high-frequency noise in signal and power lines. * **Isolation**: Used as a 1:1 transformer for basic power isolation in low-voltage circuits. --- ### Connection Configurations Because it has two windings, the behavior changes based on how you wire the pins: * **Series Connection**: Doubles the inductance but keeps the current rating the same as a single winding. * **Parallel Connection**: Keeps the inductance the same as a single winding but doubles the current-carrying capacity.