JAJSCD8C August 2015 – May 2017 LP8861-Q1
PRODUCTION DATA.
There are two main considerations when choosing an inductor; the inductor must not saturate, and the inductor current ripple must be small enough to achieve the desired output voltage ripple. Different saturation current rating specifications are followed by different manufacturers so attention must be given to details. Saturation current ratings are typically specified at 25°C. However, ratings at the maximum ambient temperature of application should be requested from the manufacturer. Shielded inductors radiate less noise and are preferred. The saturation current must be greater than the sum of the maximum load current and the worst-case average to peak inductor current. Equation 10 shows the worst-case conditions:
where
As a result the inductor should be selected according to the ISAT. A more conservative and recommended approach is to choose an inductor that has a saturation current rating greater than the maximum current limit. A saturation current rating at least 3 A is recommended for most applications. See Table 2 for inductance recommendation for the different switch frequency ranges. The inductor’s resistance should be less than 300 mΩ for good efficiency.
See detailed information in Understanding Boost Power Stages in Switch Mode Power Supplies(SLVA061). Power Stage Designer™ Tools can be used for the boost calculation: http://www.ti.com/tool/powerstage-designer.