MLCC Capacitor Size Chart

 

 

Introduction to Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors

• Multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) are crucial in electronic devices, offering a wide range of capacitance values and sizes. Over several decades, the industry has standardized MLCCs to ensure consistency and reliability.
• MLCCs consist of multiple layers of ceramic dielectric material and metal electrodes, offering larger capacitance in smaller packages. They are coded with alphanumeric or numeric identifiers for easy selection.
• The American EIA standards define MLCC case sizes using inch-based codes like “0805” (0.08” × 0.05”). These standardizations enable global compatibility across manufacturers.
• Understanding MLCC characteristics is essential for reliable component selection in electronic design.

Characteristics of Ceramic Capacitors

• Known for stable capacitance and excellent temperature characteristics, ceramic capacitors are ideal for high-frequency and power equipment. Voltage and frequency can influence their behavior.
• Capacitance is determined by dielectric material, electrodes, and dimensions. External conditions like voltage can affect performance.
• Different classes (e.g., Class 1 and Class 2) offer various performance traits such as temperature or voltage compensation.
• Dissipation factor and frequency dependence are key considerations in capacitor selection and comparison.

Construction and Styles

• MLCCs are built by stacking ceramic layers and metal electrodes, with external terminations connected to the electrodes.
• Dielectric material may be paraelectric or ferroelectric, each offering unique advantages.
• Electrodes (e.g., silver, copper) offer low resistance. Lead design affects parasitic inductance and frequency performance.
• Packaging varies by size and style (e.g., surface-mount, through-hole). Mechanical robustness is tested via bending tests.

Capacitance and Tolerances

Capacitance depends on material, electrodes, and component size, ranging from picofarads to microfarads.

Tolerances (e.g., ±5%, ±10%) affect performance and should match application requirements. Datasheets offer detailed specs.

Examples: 100 nF ±10% for a 0603 package; 1 μF ±20% for a 1206 package. Analyze parts individually during design.

MLCCs are preferred for energy storage in high-frequency and power circuits due to their reliability.

Temperature and voltage can influence MLCC capacitance; this must be factored into design decisions.

Frequency Dependence Considerations

Capacitance in ceramic capacitors can vary with frequency. Class 1 types (e.g., NP0/C0G) are more stable at high frequencies, ideal for precision circuits. Class 2 types (e.g., X7R) show greater variation, impacting performance in RF or filter applications.

Select materials and classes based on frequency behavior to ensure consistent operation.

Application Considerations for Ceramic Capacitors

Ceramic capacitors are vital in applications from automotive to audio. Selection factors include operating temperature, voltage, and capacitance value.

Automotive applications require durability, while audio applications need low distortion and stability. Class 1 types suit high-frequency precision needs; Class 2 types provide higher capacitance in compact forms.

Matching component specs to application ensures optimal performance and reliability.

Tantalum Capacitor Replacement

MLCCs are replacing tantalum capacitors due to better range, voltage ratings, and lower ESR. They’re cost-effective and come in more sizes.

However, tantalum types are still favored in some military/aerospace uses. Always compare ESR, capacitance, and voltage before substitution.

MLCC Capacitor Size Chart

Size charts list case sizes, capacitance, voltage/current ratings, and sometimes frequency or temperature behavior.

These charts assist in selecting the proper MLCC and comparing standard component dimensions across designs.

Consult datasheets for detailed specs and performance graphs.

Soft Termination and Reliability

• Soft termination uses conductive polymer to connect electrodes, reducing mechanical stress.
• This improves MLCC reliability and frequency behavior.
• It also enhances performance under varying temperature and humidity conditions.

Long-Term Reliability and Performance

Long-term reliability depends on voltage, temperature, and frequency. Choose capacitors with ratings that suit the environment.

Class 1 capacitors offer better long-term stability than Class 2. Regular inspection in critical applications helps maintain performance.

Careful selection ensures durability and efficiency throughout a component’s service life.

FAQ

What do EIA and JIS size codes mean for MLCCs?
EIA codes are inch-based case sizes (e.g., 0603 = 0.06″ × 0.03″). JIS codes are metric (e.g., 1608 = 1.6 mm × 0.8 mm). Both describe the chip’s length × width.

How do I convert an 0603 MLCC to metric?
0603 → JIS 1608 ≈ 1.6 mm × 0.8 mm. The chart lists both inch and mm.

Are MLCCs polarized?
No. Standard MLCCs are non-polarized.

What does NP0/C0G mean compared to X7R?
NP0/C0G (Class 1) is ultra-stable and low loss; X7R (Class 2) offers higher capacitance with more variation.

Do I need to derate voltage on MLCCs?
Yes—many designs use 50–70% of rated voltage; follow your vendor guidance.

What do tolerance and temperature characteristics mean?
Tolerance is the allowed variation from nominal. Temperature characteristics define how capacitance shifts with conditions.

Can MLCCs replace tantalum capacitors?
Often, but verify voltage, ripple, ESR, surge, and reliability needs.

What are Thickness Max and Electrode Band?
Thickness Max is the chip height; Electrode Band is the terminal overlap length—useful for footprint and solder fillet checks.