Multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) and single-layer ceramic capacitors are two commonly used electronic components in various applications. They play a crucial role in electronic circuits, but they have distinct differences in their construction, characteristics, and functions. In this article, we will explore the differences between single-layer and multilayer ceramic capacitors and their respective functions in electronic devices.
What are the differences between Single-Layer and Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors？
Construction Differences of Single-Layer and Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
A. Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors Construction:
Single-layer ceramic capacitors, as the name suggests, consist of a single layer of ceramic material. They have two metal plates (electrodes) placed on either side of the ceramic dielectric material.
Single-layer ceramic capacitors was also called disc ceramic capacitors.
B. Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors Construction:
Multilayer ceramic capacitors, on the other hand, are constructed by stacking multiple layers of ceramic material with metal electrodes interleaved between the layers. The layers are then bonded together to create a compact, multilayer structure.
Capacitance Range Difference in Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors and Multi-layer Ceramic Capacitors
Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors:
Single-layer ceramic capacitors typically have a lower capacitance range compared to multilayer capacitors. They are often used for low-capacitance applications.
Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors:
Multilayer ceramic capacitors offer a wider range of capacitance values, from picofarads (pF) to microfarads (uF). This makes them suitable for a broader range of applications, including high-capacitance requirements.
Voltage Rating Difference of Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors and Multi-layer Ceramic Capacitors
Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors:
Single-layer capacitors usually have lower voltage ratings, making them suitable for low-voltage circuits.
Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors:
Multilayer ceramic capacitors are available with higher voltage ratings, making them suitable for both low and high-voltage applications.
Functions of Single-Layer and Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors functions and applications
Single-layer ceramic capacitors are often used in applications where space is limited, and a lower capacitance value is sufficient. They excel in high-frequency filtering, decoupling, and RF (radio frequency) circuits. Their compact size and fast response make them ideal for these applications.
UF Capacitors offer the following Single-Layer Ceramic Capacitors:
X1Y1 Safety Capacitor, disc type, single-layer ceramic capacitors
X1Y2 Safety Capacitor, disc type, single-layer ceramic capacitors
CT81 Disc Ceramic Capacitor, DC Voltage single-layer ceramic capacitors, high voltage disc ceramic capacitors
Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors functions and applications
Multilayer ceramic capacitors find widespread use in a variety of applications due to their versatility. They are commonly used for power supply decoupling, noise filtering, voltage regulation, and energy storage in electronic devices. Their ability to offer a wide range of capacitance values and handle higher voltage ratings makes them suitable for both low and high-power circuits.
UF Capacitors offer the following Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors:
CT4 Radial Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors, mono capacitors
CT42 Axial Lead, Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
CT41 Chip Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors, surface mount multilayer ceramic capacitors
High Q Chip Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
Multialyer ceramic capacitors also can be made in X1Y1 X1Y2 safety capacitors function.
The choice between single-layer and multilayer ceramic capacitors depends on the specific requirements of the electronic circuit in question. Single-layer capacitors are best suited for compact, high-frequency applications with lower capacitance needs, while multilayer capacitors offer a broader range of capacitance values and voltage ratings, making them versatile components for various electronic devices. Understanding the differences and functions of these capacitors is crucial for designing and optimizing electronic circuits.
Multilayer technology is newer compare with disc ceramic capacitors single-layer technology. Multilayer capacitors can achieve wider capacitance, wider voltage range. As Surface mount technology become more and more mature, cost also reduced. It become very popular capacitors. Engineers like to use chip mlcc on circuits due to its advantages. Manufacturers like UF Capacitors can do very high voltage up to 7200V chip multilayer ceramic capacitors. The high capacitance SMD multilayer ceramic capacitors 100uF and 220uF chip mlcc capacitors are very mature in technology, and some mutlilayer ceramic capacitors have more than 600 layers!
No wondering, surface mount multilayer ceramic capacitors can replace more and more tantalum capacitors, and disc ceramic capacitors. For example, disc ceramic capacitors single layer ceramic capacitors in low voltage is almost end of life in china. Now manufacturers produce radial multilayer ceramic capacitors, mono capacitors to replace low voltage disc cermaic capacitors (single layer ceramic capacitors).