The **PM20-R68M** is a surface-mount (SMD) fixed inductor commonly used in power management and signal filtering circuits. It belongs to the PM20 series, typically manufactured by companies like Bourns. ### Technical Specifications | Parameter | Value / Detail | | :--- | :--- | | **Inductance** | 0.68 µH | | **Tolerance** | ±20% (indicated by the 'M' suffix) | | **Case Size (EIA)** | 1210 | | **Case Size (Metric)** | 3225 (3.2mm x 2.5mm) | | **Core Material** | Ferrite / Wire-wound | | **Termination** | Solder-plated (RoHS compliant) | --- ### Component Identification Breakdown The part number can be decoded as follows: * **PM20**: The series identifier (Standard SMD chip inductor). * **R68**: The inductance value. The "R" acts as a decimal point ($0.68$). * **M**: The tolerance code ($M = \pm20\%$). --- ### Key Electrical Characteristics 1. **High Self-Resonant Frequency (SRF):** Due to its small size and wire-wound construction, it maintains inductive properties into high-frequency ranges. 2. **Low DC Resistance (DCR):** Designed to minimize power loss and heat generation during operation. 3. **Current Handling:** Capable of handling moderate DC currents, making it suitable for decoupling and small power converters. --- ### Common Applications * **DC/DC Converters:** Used as an energy storage element in buck/boost regulators. * **Signal Filtering:** Employed in Low Pass Filters (LPF) to remove high-frequency noise from signal lines. * **Decoupling:** Placed near IC power pins to prevent noise from entering the power rail. * **Consumer Electronics:** Found in mobile phones, GPS units, and portable media players.