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"Singing" Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors and Mitigation Methods-A Review
Corina Covaci1, Aurel Gontean1
1Applied Electronics Department, Politehnica University Timisoara, 300006 Timișoara, Romania.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 28, 2022
Summary
The singing capacitor phenomenon in electronic devices is caused by vibrations from Barium Titanate in Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs). This review covers measurement methods, solutions, and simulations to mitigate this acoustic noise.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Acoustics Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
Background:
- Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs) are essential electronic components due to their compact size, cost-effectiveness, and electrical properties.
- The prevalent use of Barium Titanate in MLCCs induces piezoelectric and electrostrictive effects, leading to vibrations.
- These vibrations can cause Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) to resonate within the audible frequency range (20 Hz-20 kHz), resulting in the 'singing capacitor' phenomenon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the acoustic noise generated by MLCCs in electronic devices.
- To consolidate information on measurement methodologies, mitigation strategies, and simulation techniques for the singing capacitor phenomenon.
- To offer an up-to-date resource for researchers and engineers addressing MLCC-induced acoustic noise.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on MLCC acoustic noise.
- Compilation of measurement techniques including microphones, Laser Doppler Vibrometers (LDV), optical fibers, and active excitation.
- Analysis of proposed solutions such as specialized capacitor designs and PCB layout optimizations.
- Discussion of simulation methods, with a focus on harmonic analysis for noise prediction.
Main Results:
- Acoustic noise from MLCCs is a significant issue in electronic devices, stemming from material properties.
- Various measurement techniques exist, each with its advantages for quantifying sound pressure level and vibration.
- Multiple strategies, including design modifications and layout considerations, can effectively attenuate MLCC-generated noise.
- Simulation tools, particularly harmonic analysis, are crucial for predicting and preventing the singing capacitor effect.
Conclusions:
- The singing capacitor phenomenon is an inherent challenge associated with Barium Titanate-based MLCCs.
- Effective mitigation requires a multi-faceted approach combining accurate measurement, innovative design, and predictive simulation.
- This review synthesizes current knowledge, providing a valuable reference for addressing MLCC acoustic noise in electronic product development.
Keywords:
IoT sensorsMLCCPCB acoustics measurement methodsacoustic noiseanalysiselectronics designsimulationsinging capacitorsMore Related Videos
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