So Many Electrons, So Little Time… The Need for Low Inductance Capacitors

So Many Electrons, So Little Time… The Need for Low Inductance Capacitors
Written By: John Galvagni | Sara Randall | Paul Roughan | Allen Templeton
Abstract:
High di/dt ratios, large current pulses over short times, are an inevitable part of today’s fast electronic circuitry. They can cause high voltage spikes when passing through paths that have inductance. The task of the designer then, is to have high energies available, but not the associated voltage excursions, by reducing the total inductance.

Eliminating wire bonds, reducing path lengths, and using low inductance components is the regimen. This paper describes the availability of capacitors that can go a long way to providing the energies needed, but simultaneously, lower the intrinsic inductance it contributes.

We will review the source of the inductance, the current components available, and other advances that will give the designer a more useful menu.

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