MLCCs - Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors

Multilayer ceramic capacitors, called MLCC capacitors, are specialised ceramic capacitors with a multilayer structure. This design includes alternating layers of ceramic material and metal conductors, insulating the capacitor, reducing heat loss and increasing efficiency. With high thermal stability, ripple current capability, and extremely low ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) and ESL (Equivalent Series Inductance), multilayer ceramic capacitors are ideal for a wide range of applications.

MLCCs are available in industry-standard package sizes, such as 0402 MLCC, 0805 MLCC, and 0603 MLCC, making them compatible with common electronic configurations. Factors like dielectric material, size, and voltage requirements determine the capacitance values of these chips. Automotive-grade MLCCs are also available, meeting the rigorous AEC-Q200 standards for durability and performance.

What Are MLCC Capacitors Used For?

MLCC capacitors are a widely used and effective type of ceramic capacitor, commonly found in applications like robotics, medical equipment, automotive parts, and more. The specific ceramic material used in each multilayer ceramic capacitor determines its electrical characteristics, influencing its suitability for various applications. These capacitors are valued for their reliability and efficiency, making them essential in industries that require stable and high-performance electronic components.

What Are the Different Types of Capacitors?

Multilayer ceramic capacitors are generally classified into two main types: Class 1 and Class 2, each suited for specific applications based on their unique properties.

• Class 1 MLCCs: Class 1 MLCCs are known for their high stability, precision, and low energy loss. These capacitors maintain reliable performance across voltage, temperature, and frequency variations, making them ideal for resonant circuits in applications like radios and oscillators where accuracy is critical.
• Class 2 MLCCs: Class 2 MLCCs feature a high-permittivity dielectric, allowing greater volumetric efficiency. While they offer less stability and precision than Class 1, they are highly effective in bypass, coupling, and decoupling applications or frequency-discriminating circuits. This makes them a practical choice in circuits where exact tolerance is less critical, but capacitance values must be high.

Package Types for MLCCs

• 0402 MLCC: Compact and efficient, the 0402 package is ideal for high-density circuit boards where space is limited, providing reliable performance in a small footprint.
• 0603 MLCC: Slightly larger than 0402, the 0603 package offers a good balance between size and capacitance, suitable for various consumer electronics and automotive applications.
• 0805 MLCC: With a larger capacitance, the 0805 package is widely used in applications with more robust performance, such as power management and industrial equipment.
• 1206 MLCC: This package provides higher capacitance values and is designed for applications requiring greater power handling, common in telecommunications and automotive sectors.

Mounting Types for MLCCs

• Through-Hole Ceramic Capacitor: Through-hole mounting provides strong mechanical stability, making it ideal for larger components and applications where durability and vibration resistance are essential.
• Surface Mount MLCC: Surface mount MLCCs offer efficient space utilisation, perfect for high-density PCBs in compact electronics. They provide excellent electrical performance and are commonly used in consumer devices and mobile technology.

Applications of MLCCs

• Power Supplies: MLCCs are used in power supplies to stabilise voltage levels, filter noise, and improve efficiency, helping to provide a steady output even under varying loads.
• DC/DC Converters: In DC/DC converters, MLCCs offer stable capacitance and low ESR, essential for efficient energy transfer and conversion in power management systems.
• Telecommunications: MLCCs are critical in telecommunications, providing stable performance in filtering and signal coupling applications that demand high reliability in voice and data transmission.
• Medical Equipment: MLCCs are valued for their stability and precision in medical devices, ensuring that critical equipment functions reliably and safely in various operational conditions.
• Switch-Mode Power Supplies: MLCCs help smooth and filter within switch-mode power supplies, reduce electromagnetic interference, and support energy-efficient operation.
• Automotive Applications: MLCCs in automotive applications handle high temperatures and vibrations, providing durable performance in electronic control units, safety systems, and infotainment modules.

Delivery Information

RS offers a huge range of multilayer ceramic capacitors to meet diverse requirements, featuring trusted manufacturers like KEMET, AVX, Murata, TDK, and Vishay. Our selection includes surface-mount ceramic capacitors as well as complementary products like aluminium capacitors and electrical wires. With next-working-day delivery across Singapore on online orders (Terms & Conditions apply), RS ensures a fast, reliable service. For full details on delivery options and fees, please refer to our Delivery Information page.