The **VP3-0138-R** is a high-performance power inductor, part of the **Versa-Pac (VP)** series originally designed by Coiltronics (now a brand under **Eaton**). These components are unique because they feature multiple windings, allowing them to be configured in various ways for different power applications. --- ### 1. Key Technical Specifications The VP3-0138-R is characterized by its versatility and high power density. | Feature | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Manufacturer** | Eaton (formerly Coiltronics) | | **Inductance (Parallel)** | ~11.5 µH (typical) | | **Inductance (Series)** | ~103.5 µH (typical) | | **Peak Current (Ipk)** | 3.30 Amps | | **DC Resistance (DCR)** | ~0.024 Ω (Parallel) | | **Number of Windings** | 6 Independent Windings | | **Operating Temperature** | -40°C to +125°C | | **Mounting Type** | Surface Mount (SMD) | --- ### 2. Physical Construction and "R" Suffix * **Surface Mount Design:** It uses a high-temperature self-leaded package, making it suitable for automated assembly. * **The "R" Suffix:** In Eaton's nomenclature, the "R" stands for **RoHS Compliant**, meaning the part is lead-free and meets environmental safety standards. * **Six-Winding Architecture:** The internal structure consists of six identical windings. This allows the user to connect them in series or parallel to change the inductance and current-handling capabilities. --- ### 3. Common Applications Due to its multi-winding nature, the VP3-0138-R is used in several circuit topologies: * **Buck/Boost Converters:** Standard DC-DC conversion where high efficiency is required. * **Flyback Transformers:** By using some windings as primaries and others as secondaries, it can act as a transformer. * **SEPIC Topology:** Frequently used in battery-powered devices where the input voltage can be higher or lower than the output. * **Cuk Converters:** Utilized for highly stable voltage inversion. --- ### 4. Configuration Advantages The primary benefit of the Versa-Pac series is **inventory consolidation**. Instead of buying ten different inductors for ten different projects, an engineer can use the VP3-0138-R and change the PCB trace layout to achieve different results: 1. **Parallel Connection:** Increases current capacity but lowers total inductance. 2. **Series Connection:** Increases total inductance but lowers the maximum current rating. 3. **Isolation:** Can provide 500VAC isolation between windings if used as a transformer.