Definition
An inductor is a passive two-terminal component, usually a coil of wire around a magnetic core, that stores energy in a magnetic field whenever current flows through it. It resists sudden changes in current, which makes it the energy-storage element at the heart of the switching power supplies that feed a mining ASIC. Inductance is measured in henries (H), though hashboard inductors are typically in the microhenry (uH) range.
Role in a buck converter
In a buck converter, the switching MOSFET rapidly chops the input voltage, and the inductor averages those pulses into a smooth, lower output current. During the switch's "on" phase it stores energy; during the "off" phase it releases that stored energy to keep current flowing to the load. Paired with a downstream capacitor, it filters the ripple that would otherwise reach the ASIC's sensitive core voltage rails.
Failure and saturation
Inductors rarely fail electrically, but their magnetic core can saturate if current exceeds its design limit. When a core saturates, its inductance collapses, current spikes sharply, and the switching MOSFET often fails as a result, so a blown power stage frequently points back to an over-stressed or cracked inductor. Physical damage, cracked ferrite, or unsoldered pads are the usual culprits on a board that has taken thermal or mechanical abuse.
On a hashboard you will see one inductor per voltage domain, sitting next to its switching transistor. Confirming continuity through each inductor and inspecting for cracked cores is a standard early step when a power stage is suspect.
In Simple Terms
An inductor is a passive two-terminal component, usually a coil of wire around a magnetic core, that stores energy in a magnetic field whenever current…