Johanson Technology has introduced LASERtrim® capacitors, which are laser-adjustable monolithic ceramic surface mount devices designed for precise functional tuning of RF circuits. LASERtrims® have the high reliability expected of conventional multi-layer chip capacitors and do not experience capacitance drift, flux entrapment and other reliability concerns associated with mechanical trimmers.
These capacitors have a capacitance tuning range from 1.20 pF to 10 pF, with a voltage rating of 50 V (DC). They exhibit excellent post-trim Q and ESR performance at frequencies of 100 - 2000 MHz. LASERtrim® capacitors are available in chip sizes 0603 to 1210 with nickel barrier terminations and tape and reel packaging, LASERtrims® are compatible with high volume SMT auto-placement and reflow techniques. These high quality, drift-free devices are ideally suited for functional tuning applications in oscillator, filter, and antenna circuits in a variety of wireless RF products.
The tuning is normally performed at a laser station integrated into the automated assembly line at a point beyond any operations that may significantly alter the circuit’s RF characteristics. Tuning is performed by a computer-controlled YAG laser beam which removes or “trims” the top electrode material of the LASERtrim® thereby decreasing its capacitance. Circuit parameters such as frequency or voltage are monitored during tuning and fed back to the laser controller achieving extremely precise results.
With superior reliability compared to conventional multi-layer chip capacitors, LASERtrim® capacitors eliminate concerns such as capacitance drift and flux entrapment associated with mechanical trimmers.
Key Features of Lasertrim Capacitors
- Superior Performance: Excellent post-trim Q and ESR at 100 - 2000 MHz
- High Reliability: No capacitance drift or flux entrapment
- Versatile Sizes: Available in 0603 to 1210 chip sizes
- Efficient Packaging: Nickel barrier terminations, tape and reel packaging
- Compatibility: Perfect for high-volume SMT auto-placement and reflow techniques
- High Accuracy Tuning
- Automates Functional Tuning
- Small, Standard SMD Chip Sizes
- Lower Placement Cost vs Mechanical Solutions
- Highly Stable and Reliable After Adjustment
- RoHS Compliant Parts Available
LASERtrim® capacitors are high-quality, drift-free capacitors that are ideal for oscillator, filter, and antenna circuit tuning in various wireless RF products. These capacitors can be used in a wide range of applications that include Mobile Phones, Wireless LAN, Cable Modems, RFID, Wireless Transceivers and a range of Custom Applications.
Click here to learn more about Lasertrim® capacitors from Johanson Technology.
