VLS4012ET-150M-CA Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The VLS4012ET-150M-CA is a 15 µH shielded drum core wirewound inductor manufactured by TDK Corporation, rated for 1.05 A with a maximum DC resistance of 372mOhm. This component is classified as "Not For New Designs," indicating it has been superseded in TDK's product portfolio. Finding equivalent or substitute parts is necessary for ongoing production support, legacy system maintenance, and design flexibility when the original part becomes unavailable or when alternative specifications better suit application requirements.

Substiute Parts

VLS4012ET-150M-CA

TDK CorporationIn Stock: 1895VLS4012ET-150M-CA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

VLS6045EX-150M-H

TDK CorporationIn Stock: 5105VLS6045EX-150M-H Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

SRN4012BTA-150M

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 4990SRN4012BTA-150M Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

TYS4030150M-10

Laird-Signal Integrity ProductsIn Stock: 7689TYS4030150M-10 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the VLS4012ET-150M-CA is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Inductance Value: Must be 15 µH with ±20% tolerance
• Current Rating: Must support minimum 1.05 A continuous current
• DC Resistance: Lower or equal DCR is preferred to maintain thermal performance
• Shielding: Shielded configuration required for EMI containment
• Core Material: Ferrite core construction
• Mounting: Surface mount technology
• Package Footprint: 4.00mm x 4.00mm base dimensions preferred for PCB compatibility
• Environmental Compliance: ROHS3 compliance and MSL 1 rating required

All three substitute parts meet the core electrical specifications (15 µH inductance, ±20% tolerance, ferrite core, shielded or semi-shielded configuration, surface mount). Variations in current rating, DCR, package height, and temperature range are documented in the comparison table below.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

VLS6045EX-150M-H (TDK Corporation - Active)

This part is the manufacturer-recommended successor from TDK. It maintains identical inductance, tolerance, and shielding specifications. The extended temperature range (-40°C ~ 125°C) provides broader operational capability. The larger footprint (6.30mm x 6.00mm) and increased height (4.50mm) require PCB layout verification. This option is preferred for new designs and long-term production continuity within the TDK product ecosystem.

SRN4012BTA-150M (Bourns Inc. - Active)

This part offers the closest physical compatibility with identical 4.00mm x 4.00mm footprint and 1.20mm height. Current rating of 1.2 A exceeds the original specification. DC resistance of 384mOhm is marginally higher. Semi-shielded configuration may introduce different EMI characteristics compared to fully shielded designs. AEC-Q200 automotive qualification is included. This option is suitable for space-constrained applications requiring identical package dimensions.

TYS4030150M-10 (Laird-Signal Integrity Products - Active)

This part provides the lowest DC resistance (247mOhm), resulting in reduced thermal dissipation and improved efficiency. Current rating of 1.11 A and saturation current of 1.65A exceed original specifications. Height of 3.00mm is intermediate between the original and VLS6045EX variant. Extended temperature range (-40°C ~ 125°C) matches the VLS6045EX. This option is optimal for applications prioritizing thermal performance and current margin.

All three substitutes maintain ROHS3 compliance and MSL 1 rating, ensuring environmental and moisture sensitivity compatibility with the original part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can VLS6045EX-150M-H be used as a direct replacement on existing PCBs designed for VLS4012ET-150M-CA?

A: No. The VLS6045EX-150M-H has a larger footprint (6.30mm x 6.00mm versus 4.00mm x 4.00mm) and greater height (4.50mm versus 1.20mm). PCB layout modification is required. This part is suitable for new designs or redesigned boards.

Q: What is the difference between shielded and semi-shielded inductors?

A: Shielded inductors (VLS4012ET-150M-CA, VLS6045EX-150M-H, TYS4030150M-10) provide complete magnetic field containment, minimizing EMI coupling to adjacent components. Semi-shielded inductors (SRN4012BTA-150M) offer partial shielding with reduced size and cost but allow some magnetic field leakage. Selection depends on EMI requirements and board density constraints.

Q: Which substitute offers the best thermal performance?

A: TYS4030150M-10 has the lowest DC resistance at 247mOhm, resulting in the lowest I²R losses and reduced heat generation compared to the original 372mOhm specification.

Q: Are all substitutes compatible with the original operating temperature range of -40°C ~ 105°C?

A: Yes. All three substitutes support at least -40°C ~ 105°C. VLS6045EX-150M-H, SRN4012BTA-150M, and TYS4030150M-10 all extend the upper limit to 125°C, providing additional thermal margin.

Q: What certifications do the substitute parts carry?

A: VLS6045EX-150M-H carries no specific automotive or industrial certification listed. SRN4012BTA-150M is AEC-Q200 qualified for automotive applications. TYS4030150M-10 carries no specific certification listed. All parts are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected.

Q: Can SRN4012BTA-150M be used in applications requiring full shielding?

A: SRN4012BTA-150M is semi-shielded, not fully shielded. Applications requiring complete magnetic field containment should use VLS4012ET-150M-CA, VLS6045EX-150M-H, or TYS4030150M-10 instead.

Q: What is the saturation current specification and why does it matter?

A: Saturation current (Isat) is the DC current level at which the inductor's inductance begins to degrade significantly. The original part has Isat of 700mA. Substitutes offer higher saturation currents (SRN4012BTA-150M: 900mA, TYS4030150M-10: 1.65A), providing greater current headroom before inductance collapse occurs.