SENICO Electronics

Component sourcing guide

MLCC and Capacitor Array RFQs: Specify Effective Capacitance

Prepare ceramic-capacitor and array requests with dielectric, voltage, effective capacitance, internal connections, package and assembly requirements.

An MLCC quotation needs more than nominal capacitance and case size. Specify dielectric, rated voltage, tolerance and the complete manufacturer ordering code. If the BOM uses a capacitor array, include its internal connection diagram as well. Current supply must be confirmed for the exact required configuration.

Check capacitance under operating conditions

Murata’s DC-bias guidance explains that high-dielectric-constant ceramic capacitors can change capacitance when voltage is applied. The practical comparison is therefore the effective capacitance in the circuit, not only the value printed in a catalog description.

Record the normal DC voltage, ripple conditions and operating temperature. Use the manufacturer’s data for the exact candidate to evaluate the available capacitance. In a regulator output or timing circuit, have engineering confirm that the minimum effective value remains adequate across the required conditions.

Distinguish arrays from individual capacitors

Identify the number of elements, their values and the way they connect to external terminals. Multi-terminal construction does not by itself establish that a device contains several independent capacitors. Compare the equivalent circuit and footprint before treating another component as a mechanical replacement.

Murata’s GCD series information illustrates a specialized internal arrangement. It is a reminder to verify what is inside the package rather than extending assumptions from an ordinary two-terminal MLCC. Keep the required topology explicit in the RFQ and assembly documentation.

Review package and supply acceptance

Specify actual dimensions and the package-code convention used by the BOM. Include height, termination requirements and packing format. Review soldering and board-flex requirements with the assembly team when considering a different size or termination construction.

For a proposed alternate, compare impedance and thermal behavior where they affect the application. Validate the completed circuit, especially when capacitors provide output stability or high-frequency decoupling. Request the offered part number, quantity, lot information and delivery basis, and retain the accepted comparison with the BOM revision.

Frequently asked questions

Can any capacitor with the same nominal value replace an MLCC?

No. Dielectric, effective capacitance, ESR, voltage rating and physical construction can change circuit behavior. Match the application’s requirements and verify the specific device.

Does a higher voltage rating always preserve more capacitance?

Do not assume so from the rating alone. Compare the exact manufacturer curves at the intended voltage, temperature and package size.

Send SENICO an MLCC or capacitor-array RFQ with full ordering codes and quantities. Availability, price and delivery timing require quotation confirmation.