Considerations for Optimal Capacitive Coupling Abstract: Capacitors used in coupling and DC blocking applications serve to couple RF energy from one part of a circuit to another and are implemented as series elements. Proper selection of coupling capacitors insures the maximum transfer of RF energy. All capacitors will block DC by definition; however, considerations for satisfying the requirements of a coupling application depend on various frequency-dependent parameters that must be taken into account beforehand.
Technical Articles / Whitepapers
Capacitors in Broadband Applications Abstract: Proper selection of capacitors for RF broadband applications requires careful evaluation of frequency dependent parameters and certain design requirements. In today’s rapidly expanding RF and microwave markets, numerous designs must operate over multiple octaves of frequency spectrum. Some of the more common of these include broadband bias networks such as transistor emitter and FET source bypassing, transistor collector and FET drain feed structures, as well as interstage RF coupling, DC blocking, and wideband impedance matching.
Capacitor Pi Network for Impedance Matching Application Note 026 Abstract: Designing matching networks is one of the key aspects of RF/Microwave design. A lossless network that matches an arbitrary load to real impedance has to have at least two reactive elements. However, two elements do not give control over the bandwidth and the degree of match simultaneously. Three-element matching networks, i.e. Pi- and Teenetworks, provide additional control of the frequency response.
RF Ceramic Chip Capacitors in High RF Power Applications Abstract: In today’s world of wireless communications systems there are a myriad of high RF power applications that necessitate the use of high quality specialized ceramic chip capacitors. These demands require the designer to carefully account for factors such as device power dissipation and maximum current and voltage ratings as well as thermal resistance and temperature rise during normal circuit operation. This article highlights some of the most essential elements needed for selecting capacitor products suitable for these applications.
The Case for Ceramic Capacitors in Electric Vehicle DC-DC Converters Written By: John Lee | Simon Cen Abstract: The emergence and future ubiquity of electric vehicles have created one of the most demanding application spaces for capacitors across a wide variety of use cases. From AC charging circuits to high-speed analog sensors, electric vehicles span the gamut of design constraints while also requiring the highest reliability standards in the worst possible environments.
KYOCERA AVX Varistors for Automotive Ethernet Written By: Akihiro Kado | Michael Kirk Abstract: The ubiquity of high-performance sensor systems in modern automobiles (particularly electric and self-driving vehicles) has created immense pressure to develop automotive local area networking (LAN) solutions that offer high bandwidth, low latency, and low cost. Traditional wiring harnesses have become too heavy and complex to support these data and power needs.
Criteria for Selecting Connectors for LED Lighting/Industrial Applications Written By: Jeffery Wang | John Lee Abstract: Connectors used in industrial and solid-state lighting applications pose uniquely challenging design constraints on power density and form-factor while simultaneously demanding the highest reliability under harsh environmental conditions. As a designer in these spaces, one cannot simply prioritize piece cost in the connector selection process. The true value of a connector is much more nuanced and must include the amortized costs of manufacturability, reliability, and safety. Eliminating hand soldering, ease of use, and good yield are not free. Avoiding field failures and product recalls are not free. Regulatory compliance is not free. To best address these hidden costs, designers should choose connectors from suppliers
Conductive Epoxy Attachment of Capacitors Written By: Ron Demcko | Ashley Stanziola Abstract: Compared to the vast majority, capacitor attachment via conductive epoxy is not a common technique among end-user applications. A significant amount of growth in capacitor usage has occurred in solder attachment methods. Furthermore, many publications on attachment methods focus predominantly on optimizing the multiple methods of solder component attachment. Therefore, confusion exists on the requirements needed to ensure reliable long-term attachment when using conductive epoxy material systems. This paper serves as a general introduction to conductive adhesives. It aims to assist end-users in the conductive epoxy attachment of SMT (Surface Mount Technology) components.
Passive Automotive Electronics for 48V Systems and V2X Written By: James Emerick Abstract: Two of the driving forces behind the quickly evolving automotive industry are fuel efficiency and safety. Fuel efficiency is primarily driven by a combination of regulatory requirements for reduced CO2 emissions and consumer demands for improved operational economy. While always paramount, safety has seen renewed activity due to the advancements of driver-assist and driverless technologies. The shift toward 48V subsystems and the integration of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication are two prime examples of significant advances in efficiency and safety, respectively. In both cases, new classes of electronic passives (capacitors, inductors, antennas, interconnect) are required to bring these technologies to mainstream products while meeting strict automotive regulatory standards.
LED Lighting Interconnects Solutions Written By: Alex Guan Abstract: Solid-state lighting (SSL) solutions based on the light-emitting diode (LED) and its organic relative (OLED) have become the standard for luminaires across a wide variety of application sectors. SSL performance with respect to luminous output, power efficiency, lifetime, and reliability is unmatched. Many of the challenges endured by early adopters, such as cooling, manufacturability, and form factor limitations, have largely been solved. By the year 2035, it is projected that 85% of all lighting installations will be solid-state (“2019 Lighting R&D Opportunities”).