Research Institute Develops High-Frequency Vertical Toroidal Inductor for 5G Base Stations

January 22, 2025 – The Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems (ENAS) in Germany has developed a breakthrough vertical toroidal inductor that operates at frequencies up to 6 GHz, making it suitable for 5G base stations. The component uses a nanocrystalline core material, which enables high-frequency performance without sacrificing efficiency.

5G base stations require inductors that can handle fast data transfer speeds while maintaining signal integrity. “Traditional inductors struggle with signal loss at high frequencies,” said Dr. Jan Meier, lead researcher at Fraunhofer ENAS. “Our vertical toroidal inductor’s toroidal shape reduces parasitic capacitance, allowing it to operate reliably at 6 GHz with only 3% signal attenuation.” The institute has licensed the technology to a major telecom component manufacturer, which plans to start production in late 2025. The new inductor is expected to reduce 5G base station power consumption by 8% and lower latency for wireless communications.