Introduction
SMD power supply circuits are integral to any electronic device, providing it with the energy it needs to operate. When setting up the SMD power supply, numerous components must be selected, including SMD power chip inductors and through-hole inductors. There are several differences between SMD Power Chip and Through-Hole Inductors.
Furthermore, each type of inductor has its advantages over the other, and one can significantly impact the circuit’s performance. This blog will outline the factors to consider when choosing between an SMD power chip and a through-hole inductor. If you have any queries, get in touch with MLC Europe B.V. today!
SMD Power Chip Inductors: What are They?
SMD power chip inductors are small electronic components used in SMD power supply circuits to store and deliver energy. Their body is made of wire and a core, and they are typically smaller than through-hole inductors. Thanks to their small size, they can be mounted directly onto a circuit board, saving time and space. SMD power chip inductors are available in a range of SMD inductor sizes, allowing them to be used in multiple applications.
Why Choose SMD Power Chip Inductors?
There are several advantages to choosing SMD power chip inductors over through-hole inductors. Firstly, they are much smaller, which makes them easier to fit onto a circuit board without taking up too much space. This makes them ideal for use in applications where space is limited, such as in wearable electronics or devices with limited space for components. They also require fewer components, as they are self-contained, which makes them easier to install.
Advantages of SMD Power Chip Inductors
SMD power chip inductors have several other advantages over through-hole inductors. First, they are generally more energy-efficient than through-hole inductors, as they can store more energy in a smaller package. This makes them ideal for use in low-power applications, as they can provide more energy for less power. They can also be used in high-power applications to handle high current and voltage levels. Finally, they are less prone to sparking and arcing, which is an issue with through-hole inductors.
Disadvantages of SMD Power Chip Inductors
The main disadvantage of SMD power chip inductors is that they are more expensive than through-hole inductors. This is because they are more complex to manufacture, requiring precision tools and processes. Additionally, they are more prone to overheating and can be damaged if exposed to too much heat, making them less reliable than through-hole inductors.
Through-Hole Inductors: What are They?
Through-hole inductors are electronic components used in SMD power supply circuits to store and deliver energy. They are typically larger than SMD power chip inductors. Due to their larger size, they need to be mounted onto the circuit board separately, which can be time-consuming and lead to installation errors.
Advantages of Through-Hole Inductors
The main advantage of through-hole inductors is that they are generally cheaper than SMD power chip inductors, which are much simpler to manufacture. They are also more reliable than SMD power chip inductors, as they are less prone to failures due to heat and are usually more durable overall. Additionally, they can handle higher current and voltage levels than SMD power chip inductors, making them ideal for high-power applications.
Disadvantages of Through-Hole Inductors
The main disadvantage of through-hole inductors is that they are more significant than SMD power chip inductors and can take up more space on a circuit board. This can be an issue in applications where space is limited, as they will take up more space than an SMD power chip inductor. Additionally, they require more components and can be more challenging to install, as they need to be mounted onto the board separately.
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Ideal Inductor
When selecting between SMD power chip inductors and through-hole inductors, there are many factors to consider. Knowing which type is most suitable for your application can make all the difference in your final product. To help you make the proper selection, we’ve listed the top 10 factors to consider when choosing between the two.
- Size: SMD power chip inductors are much smaller in size than through-hole inductors, making them especially suited for compact circuit designs. Through-hole inductors typically take up more space on the board and can cause interference with other components if not positioned correctly. It isn’t easy to find tiny SMD inductor sizes, and some of the most common SMD inductor sizes are 0805 and 0603.
- Cost: Generally speaking, SMD power chip inductors tend to be more cost-effective than through-hole inductors, though the cost gap between the two has diminished in recent years.
- Stability: Through-hole inductors offer more stability and durability, making them a better choice for heavy-duty applications. SMD power chip inductors are better suited for low-power applications, as they are more likely to overheat and short circuit when exposed to high power.
- Packaging: Through-hole inductors come in various packages, while SMD power chip inductors are available primarily in one package size.
- Heat Dissipation: Through-hole inductors are much better at dissipating heat than SMD power chip inductors. This makes them better suited for applications that generate a lot of heat, such as SMD power supply.
- Frequency Range: Through-hole inductors typically have a more comprehensive frequency range than SMD power chip inductors, allowing them to handle higher frequencies.
- Current Rating: SMD power chip inductors tend to have a lower current rating than through-hole inductors, limiting their usage in high-power applications.
- Efficiency: SMD power chip inductors are more efficient than through-hole inductors, but that difference tends to be slight.
- Temperature Range: Through-hole inductors typically handle a more comprehensive range of temperatures than SMD power chip inductors. This makes them more suitable for applications in extreme temperatures.
- Application: The type of inductor you choose should depend on your application. While SMD power chip inductors are better suited for low-power applications, through-hole inductors work better for high-power applications.
Now that you know the top 10 factors to consider when choosing between SMD power chip inductors and through-hole inductors, you should know which type is best for your application. Your final choice should be based on your specific project requirements, considering which type offers the best size, cost, and stability combination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between SMD power chip inductors and through-hole inductors for an SMD power supply depends on various factors, such as the size and power requirements of the circuit. For example, SMD power chip inductors are generally smaller, more energy-efficient, and require fewer components, but they can be more expensive and prone to overheating. On the other hand, through-hole inductors are generally cheaper, more reliable, and able to handle higher current and voltage levels, but they can take up more space and be more challenging to install.