MURATA’s GQM series of high-Q multilayer ceramic chip (MLCC) capacitors feature low ESR values and a high quality factor for VHF, UHF and microwave frequencies.

The series’ low ESR, e.g., 0.1 ohms at 1GHz for a typical 10pF capacitor, helps reduce power consumption in mobile phones, base stations, other telecommunications equipment and RF power amplifiers. The GQM series offers 0603-size versions with ratings up to 250V, and 0805-size versions up to 100V. In addition, MURATA is currently developing 0805 versions rated for up to 250V.

GQM series MLCCs offer tight tolerances and can thus help designers improve their matching circuits and reduce reflection loss. Capacitors under 5pF are available with tolerances as tight as +/-0.05pF, while 5 to 9pF versions offer tolerances down to
+/-0.25pF and the 10 to 20pF versions down to +/-1%.

The GQM series’ inner electrode is made of copper, which is both economical and effective compared to palladium. The structure of the copper electrode has been optimized to suppress parasitic parallel resonance, and this is a key factor in realizing the lowest ESR values currently available on the market.

P03