TDK CN Series MLCCs Reach 10 μF at 100 V in 3225 Case Size
New soft-termination capacitors offer double the capacitance of conventional parts while maintaining low ESR for 48 V vehicle systems.
TDK has introduced a new multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) in its CN series that achieves 10 μF capacitance at 100 V within the compact 3225 case size, targeting smoothing and decoupling applications in electrified vehicles.
What Happened
The new component is a 100 V, 10 μF X7R MLCC measuring 3.2 x 2.5 x 2.5 mm. TDK states this is the highest capacitance available at 100 V in this format. The parts feature soft termination, which uses a conductive resin layer between the ceramic element and outer electrode to prevent cracking from board flex. Unlike typical soft-termination designs that increase equivalent series resistance (ESR), TDK’s optimized resin electrode structure maintains terminal resistance levels comparable to standard-termination parts. Mass production is scheduled to begin in September 2026.
Why It Matters
These capacitors are designed for 48 V power lines in electric vehicles and industrial equipment, where they absorb switching ripple and stabilize the bus during load steps. The 100 V rating provides necessary margin above the nominal 48 V bus voltage. By doubling the capacitance of conventional parts in the same footprint while reducing ESR, TDK claims manufacturers can halve the number of MLCCs required in a given mounting area. This supports the industry shift toward higher voltage architectures, which reduce resistive losses and allow for lighter wiring harnesses.
The Bottom Line
TDK’s new CN series MLCCs offer a higher-density solution for 48 V automotive systems, with AEC-Q200 qualification for automotive use and mass production starting in September 2026.
