New RF MLCCs offer reliability and design flexibility

Vishay Intertechnology has introduced what is claimed to be the industry's first surface-mount MLCCs for high frequency RF and microwave applications to offer an operating temperature range to +200C. For telecom base stations and defence communication systems, the Vishay Vitramon VJ HIFREQ HT series provides ultra high Q and low ESR in four compact case sizes. For high power communication transmitters and high frequency inverters exposed to temperatures of +175C or higher, designers previously had to rely on MLCCs only qualified to +150C. With their operating temperature range from -55C to +200C, the new devices provide reliable, long term performance in these applications. For increased design flexibility, the MLCCs' small 0402, 0603, 0805, and 1111 case sizes allow for placement close to components with high dissipation, such as SiC and GaN switches. Manufactured in NME technology with a wet build process, the capacitors are available with a variety of RoHS-compliant termination finishes, including nickel barrier with 100% matte tin plate for reflow assembly (code "X"), non-magnetic copper barrier for applications sensitive to magnetic interference (code "C"), and silver-palladium for conductive epoxy assembly (code "E"). The series is also available with a lead-bearing (minimum 4%) termination finish (code "L"). The devices are halogen-free and Vishay Green (excluding "L" termination).