VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA is a 3.3 µH shielded drum core, wirewound inductor manufactured by TDK Corporation, rated for 980 mA continuous current with a maximum DC resistance of 272 mOhm. This surface mount component is packaged in the 1008 (2520 Metric) form factor and operates across the temperature range of -40°C to 105°C. The part is classified as Not For New Designs, indicating it has been superseded in TDK's product portfolio. Identifying equivalent substitute parts is necessary for applications requiring continued supply, design flexibility, or performance optimization within compatible electrical and mechanical parameters.

Substiute Parts

VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA

TDK CorporationIn Stock: 4004VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

VLS6045EX-3R3N-H

TDK CorporationIn Stock: 3037VLS6045EX-3R3N-H Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA are identified based on the following critical parameters that determine functional compatibility:

• Inductance Value: 3.3 µH (primary electrical specification)
• Core Type and Shielding: Ferrite, shielded drum core construction
• Current Handling Capability: Minimum 980 mA continuous rating
• DC Resistance: Maximum 272 mOhm to maintain efficiency
• Mounting Technology: Surface mount configuration
• Environmental Compliance: RoHS3 compliance and MSL rating

The substitute part VLS6045EX-3R3N-H maintains the same inductance value, core material, shielding approach, and mounting type. However, it operates in a different package form factor (Nonstandard vs. 1008 Metric) and exhibits different electrical characteristics in current rating and DC resistance specifications. Substitution feasibility depends on whether the application can accommodate these dimensional and electrical variations.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The VLS6045EX-3R3N-H is an active product from TDK Corporation and represents a viable substitute for the VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA in applications where the following conditions are met:

• The printed circuit board layout can accommodate the larger footprint (6.30mm x 6.00mm vs. 2.50mm x 2.00mm) and increased height (4.50mm vs. 1.20mm)
• The application does not require the specific current rating or DC resistance specifications of the original part
• The wider inductance tolerance (±30% vs. ±20%) is acceptable for the circuit design
• The extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 125°C vs. -40°C to 105°C) provides additional thermal margin
• The AEC-Q200 automotive qualification of the substitute part meets or exceeds application requirements

Both parts maintain RoHS3 compliance, MSL Level 1 rating, and ferrite shielded drum core construction. The substitute part's active product status ensures continued availability and supply chain stability compared to the original part's Not For New Designs classification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the VLS6045EX-3R3N-H directly replace the VLS252012ET-3R3M-CA on existing PCBs?

A: Direct PCB replacement is not possible without layout modification. The substitute part requires a significantly larger footprint (6.30mm x 6.00mm vs. 2.50mm x 2.00mm) and greater height clearance (4.50mm vs. 1.20mm). PCB redesign is necessary to accommodate the different package dimensions.

Q: What is the impact of the ±30% inductance tolerance on circuit performance?

A: The substitute part's ±30% tolerance is wider than the original ±20% specification. Circuit designs must verify that this increased tolerance range does not degrade performance in frequency response, filtering characteristics, or impedance matching requirements.

Q: Are both parts suitable for automotive applications?

A: The substitute part VLS6045EX-3R3N-H carries AEC-Q200 automotive qualification. The original part does not specify automotive ratings. Applications requiring automotive-grade components should reference the substitute part's AEC-Q200 certification.

Q: What are the current handling differences between these parts?

A: The original part specifies 980 mA continuous current rating with 1.25 A saturation current. The substitute part does not provide these specifications in the available data. Current handling capability must be verified against application requirements before substitution.

Q: Do both parts meet the same environmental compliance standards?

A: Both parts are ROHS3 compliant, MSL Level 1 rated, and REACH unaffected. Environmental compliance is equivalent between the two parts.