Samsung Electro-Mechanics has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in the capacitor market, with the launch of a high-performance Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitor (MLCC) designed specifically for the growing autonomous driving sector. The new MLCC, dubbed the CL05Y225KP66PN, is the first of its kind to offer 2.2uF (microfarads) capacity at 10V in a compact 1005 size (1.0 mm wide and 0.5 mm long), making it the world’s smallest and highest voltage MLCC.
The new capacitor is engineered to meet the increasing demands of autonomous driving technologies such as LiDAR systems, which rely on precise signal transmission and stable power supply to operate effectively. Its 10V rating is a significant leap from the previous 6.3V standard, representing a 60% increase in voltage capacity. The new product has passed the stringent AEC-Q200 certification, the automotive industry’s critical reliability standard for components used in vehicles, making it the first MLCC of its size and voltage to achieve this qualification.
This innovative capacitor is poised to play a vital role in the evolving automotive industry, supporting various applications such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), body, chassis, and infotainment systems. As the automotive sector shifts toward electrification, the need for high-performance, reliable components is growing, with MLCCs playing a key role in ensuring the stable operation of these systems.
The development of this advanced MLCC faced significant challenges. Typically, it is difficult to balance both voltage and capacitance characteristics in MLCCs. To achieve high voltage, the dielectric layer used for storing electricity must be thicker, which reduces the space available for stacking multiple dielectric layers, thus limiting capacitance. However, Samsung Electro-Mechanics overcame this limitation by developing proprietary additives and a new manufacturing process that minimises empty spaces within the dielectric. This innovation allows the capacitor to deliver high voltage and capacitance without compromising performance or reliability.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ new MLCC is a vital step in its strategy to stay at the forefront of the growing market for automotive components. In a statement, Executive Vice President Choi Jeremy, Head of the company’s Component Solution Unit, said, “The demand for high-performance and high-reliability MLCCs is increasing due to the electrification of vehicles. We will strengthen our competitive edge in differentiated technology by securing key technologies in materials, equipment, and manufacturing processes for MLCCs, and actively respond to growth markets focusing on high-value products.”
The introduction of the CL05Y225KP66PN further cements Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ position as a leader in the development of cutting-edge components for the automotive industry, which is rapidly embracing electrification and automation. With this new capacitor, the company is well-positioned to meet the rising demand for advanced, reliable components that can support the technologies that will shape the future of transportation.