MLSCs reduce electronic failure in automotive apps

Murata has introduced 13 new parts into the GCD series, which features two capacitors in series in each package.

In harsh environments such as automotive electronics, capacitors mounted on a PCB are often subjected to strong bending forces that cause cracks in the part.

Typically, the cracks occur across the corners of the capacitor that are in contact with the solder.

In an MLSC, such a crack would not cause failure of the part, but would disable only one of the capacitors in the package, leaving the other one intact and functioning.

After one side of the part has been cracked, the mechanical stress on the part is mitigated and it's unlikely that a similar crack will affect the other capacitor.

The structure of MLSCs therefore vastly improves reliability of these parts - the series is designed to keep its rated voltage despite any cracks, in order to meet the needs of demanding applications such as battery lines.

Murata has added 13 new parts to the GCD series - seven in 0603 packages and six in 0805 packages.

0603 size capacitors have dimensions of 1.6 x 0.8 x 0.8mm and are now available with capacitances of 5,600pF, 6,800pF, 8,200pF, 10nF, 12nF, 15nF and 22nF.

0805 size capacitors measure 2 x 1.25 x 1.25mm and are available with capacitances of 15, 22, 47, 56, 68 and 100nF.

All parts are rated to 50V.

Further parts in the GCD series are already available with various capacitances in 0603 and 0805 sizes.