Introduction

In this technical review, we will analyze the performance of Murata Electronics' ceramic X6S Capacitor, GRM32EC81A476KE19L (47µF, ±10% tolerance, 10V voltage rating) in comparison to a statistical benchmark formed from other capacitors with similar value attributes. The benchmark offers a robust basis for drawing significant insights into the performance of the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor - a component specifically designed for Surface Mount mounting.

Pros:

• A broad frequency range performance for different voltages.
• Exhibits a relatively low series resistance at test frequencies above 100 kHz.
• Generally low impedance performance, especially at higher frequencies.
• In some test frequencies, the capacitance value is close or within the nominal range.

Cons:

• Non-ideal quality factor values in some test frequencies, which could impact efficiency and power handling capabilities.
• Capacitance values deviate significantly from the nominal 47µF value at specific test frequencies.
• Dissipation factor values tend to increase with higher frequencies, hinting at potential energy loss.
• The capacitor's performance is inconsistent when operating at higher voltages.

The subsequent sections will delve deeper into specific aspects of the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor's performance: capacitance, series resistance, dissipation factor, and quality factor. With comprehensive comparative analysis, we can arrive at a well-informed conclusion on the overall performance of the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor.

Impedance

At a 1V test frequency, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor exhibits impedance values that are mostly close to the average benchmark values. Interestingly, at a low frequency of 10Hz, the component's impedance measures 308 Ohms, which provides a slightly better performance compared to the benchmark's average of 332.8 Ohms. In the mid-frequency range, between 500Hz and 1kHz, the capacitor delivers marginally better performance with impedance values of 8.209 Ohms and 4.291 Ohms, compared to the benchmark values of 7.777 Ohms and 4.046 Ohms, respectively.

However, when tested at a higher voltage of 10V, the performance of the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor at 5Hz exhibits a relatively high impedance value of 815 Ohms, compared to the benchmark's average values. In contrast, at some low frequencies like 100Hz, the measured impedance is slightly better at 28.99 Ohms, against an average value of 35.87 Ohms. In the frequency range between 500 Hz and 1 kHz, the capacitor demonstrates a slightly better performance, displaying impedances of 6.562 Ohms and 3.601 Ohms, respectively.

Overall, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor's impedance performance is somewhat mixed, with some test results showcasing better performance compared to the benchmarks, while others exhibit minor discrepancies. As such, engineers seeking to determine the most suitable capacitor for a specific application should thoroughly consider the advantages and disadvantages of this component based on the requirements and desired performance outcome of their design.

Capacitance

In our analysis of the Murata Electronics' Ceramic Capacitor GRM32EC81A476KE19L, we focused on its capacitance measurements and compared them to the statistical benchmark data for components of the same nominal value. This nominal capacitance for this particular capacitor is 47μF.

For tests conducted at 1 Volt, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L showed a series capacitance of 52.24μF at 5Hz, which is a relatively low frequency for ceramic capacitors, and decreased to 36.92μF at 1kHz. Comparing this data with the statistical benchmark, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor presented a higher series capacitance value than the average (except between 100k and 600k), showcasing its high-performing characteristics. The variations in capacitance values across the frequency range provide insight into the capacitor's behavior, and it is essential to choose capacitors that provide stable capacitance values in the intended application frequency range. When tested at 700kHz, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L demonstrated a remarkable capacitance value of 7.558mF, which is conspicuously higher than the statistical benchmark at 2.131μF.

When observing the LCR measurements at 10 Volts, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L showed a series capacitance of 38.85μF at 5Hz and increased to 54.95μF at 100Hz. This spike in capacitance indicates that capacitor performs well under higher voltage conditions. At higher frequencies, such as 500kHz, this capacitor exhibited a capacitance of 8.99mF, which is significantly higher than the benchmark value of 2.801μF. These measurements indicate that the GRM32EC81A476KE19L is more suitable for higher voltage applications, illustrating its impressive performance in a wide range of conditions. It is vital to consider the dielectric properties and voltage coefficients in ceramic capacitors as they can cause non-linear changes in capacitance depending on the voltage applied to them.

Series Resistance

At 1V, the Murata GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor displayed an excellent series resistance performance across various test frequencies. In comparison to the average series resistance benchmarks, this capacitor outperformed at test frequencies of 100Hz (1.704Ω vs 2.199Ω) and 1kHz (437.4mΩ vs 139mΩ). It is important to note, however, that its performance was found to be slightly below average at the test frequency of 50Hz (3.037Ω vs 4.632Ω).

Furthermore, at 10V, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor continued to demonstrate a strong series resistance performance. It surpassed the benchmark averages for test frequencies like 1kHz (266.1mΩ), 5kHz (50.54mΩ), and 50kHz (35.87mΩ). Conversely, it recorded higher series resistance values in relation to the statistical benchmark at lower test frequencies such as 5Hz (51.17Ω) and 10Hz (29.88Ω).

Evaluated against the statistical benchmark for components of similar value, the Murata Electronics' GRM32EC81A476KE19L ceramic capacitor exhibits a competitive series resistance performance. Its ability to outperform the benchmark at multiple test frequencies indicates its suitability for a range of electronic engineering applications. Engineers considering this component should take its strong performance into account when deciding whether to incorporate it in their designs, as a capacitor with lower series resistance can enable more efficient operation in circuits where energy conservation is critical.

Dissipation Factor and Quality Factor

In evaluating the performance of Murata Electronics' GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor, we focus on two critical performance indicators: the Dissipation Factor (Df) and the Quality Factor (Q). These parameters help engineers determine the component's suitability for their application-specific requirements.

Upon comparing the GRM32EC81A476KE19L with the statistical benchmark data, we find that at 1V, the overall trend exhibits a lower Df and a higher Q factor. Lower Df values and higher Q factors are desirable as they represent a decreased energy loss and enhanced overall performance respectively. For example, in the 1 kHz to 5 kHz frequency range, the capacitor showcases a Df ranging from 0.031 to 0.062, and Q factors ranging between 16.04 and 31.74. This performance aligns with the typical expectations for components of this type.

At higher frequencies, specifically from 50 kHz to 1 MHz, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L's Df tends to increase while the Q factor gradually decreases. This could indicate an elevated energy loss and suboptimal performance in high-frequency applications. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the impact of voltage on this component's performance. LCR measurements conducted at 10 Volts demonstrate that, at this increased voltage, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L generally exhibits higher Df values when compared to the 1V measurements, particularly in the frequency range of 20 kHz to 1 MHz.

Given this information, engineers should consider the significance of these performance parameters and analyze their specific project requirements. By doing so, they will be able to make an informed decision on whether the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor is the optimal choice for their application.

Comparative Analysis

Conclusion

After a comprehensive review and analysis of Murata Electronics' GRM32EC81A476KE19L Ceramic: X6S capacitor, it is evident that this particular component provides a commendable performance considering its consistency and reliability when compared to the statistical benchmark data. Despite challenges at higher test frequencies with 10 Volts, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L offers an overall strong showing throughout its impedance, capacitance, series resistance, dissipation factor, and quality factor metrics, further proving its versatility and applicability in various electronic circuits.

Notably, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor shows impressive results in terms of dissipation factors and quality factors in test frequencies at 1 Volt. Its consistency in maintaining similar impedance across frequencies and voltage ratings is a remarkable feature, making it a highly dependable choice for engineers in need of a stable, well-performing capacitor. This capacitor demonstrates a strong ability to maintain its series capacitance and resistance values with minimal fluctuations from the benchmark data, signifying a solid performance within its category of Ceramic: X6S capacitors.

In conclusion, the Murata Electronics GRM32EC81A476KE19L Ceramic: X6S capacitor is a strong contender for engineers looking to improve the performance and longevity of their circuit designs. Its broad, careful, and far-reaching benefits include its impressive consistency, reliability, and adaptability, which are all crucial aspects in the fast-moving world of electronics. Considering the performance comparison with the statistical benchmark data, the GRM32EC81A476KE19L capacitor is an ideal choice for those looking to maximize performance, dependability, and efficiency in their designs.