The huge popularity of MLCC capacitors in comparison with alternative technologies is primarily a result of their superb reliability record and low cost. However, in certain circumstances problem can occur due to cracking in the ceramic portion of the component. These failures result from mechanical damage caused after soldering to the PCB: normally a consequence of PCB mishandling or when the assembly is located in extreme environmental conditions.
This article outlines the main benefits and features of AVX’s Flexterm™, a soft termination system that minimizes these failures by relieving the mechanical stress applied to the ceramics.
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