Technical Articles / Whitepapers

The Pros and Cons of MLCC Downsizing Written By: Frank Hodgkinson | Maureen Strawhorne Abstract: As integrated circuits (ICs) continue to pack more functionality into smaller packages, the need for bulk off-chip capacitance remains. In resonant circuits, such as phase-lock-loops (PLLs) and switching regulators, precision class one ceramic capacitor may be required. Such capacitors must maintain a tight capacitance range over process, voltage, and temperature variation (PVT) for the host IC to meet its performance specifications. In contrast, class two ceramic capacitors are required for nearly every IC in the form of decoupling and bypass capacitance. They may also be found in amplifier circuits, simple filters, and linear regulators where their function is less dependent on tightly specified impedance requirements.

The Application of Capacitors in Power Supply Regulator Circuits Written By: Rick Liu Abstract: Advancements in electronic technology over the last decade have led to smarter consumer electronics. As devices become smarter, the components used to power them are shrinking, resulting in small, but incredibly powerful devices — ones small enough to fit inside a pocket or around a wrist. With these smaller, denser designs, it can be impossible to separate analog and digital domains in the layout, as best practices used to dictate years ago. Today, design engineers are compelled to use many capacitors in the power network to attenuate high-frequency digital noise. Circuits are designed to expect pure, clean power without noise that will impact analog circuits.

AVX MLCC Flexiterm™: Guarding Against Capacitor Crack Failures Written By: Mark Stewart Abstract: The huge popularity of MLCC capacitors in comparison with alternative technologies is primarily a result of their superb reliability record and low cost. However, in certain circumstances problems can occur due to cracking in the ceramic portion of the component. These failures result from mechanical damage caused after soldering to the PCB; normally a consequence of PCB mishandling or when the assembly is located in extreme environmental conditions. This article outlines the main benefits and features of AVX’s ‘FlexiTerm™,’ a soft termination system that minimizes these failures by relieving the mechanical stress applied to the ceramic.