New Industry Products

Ultra-Flat Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors Save Board Space

September 09, 2019 by Paul Shepard

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE) calls the ULP Series of ultra-low-profile aluminum electrolytic capacitors a real “game-changer” for engineers designing compact electronic devices. Designed specifically for applications requiring bulk capacitance and the lowest board profiles, type ULP offers considerably higher energy density than arrays of surface mount capacitors.

ULP technology allows the circuit designer to use a single component that saves space, weight, and cost while improving reliability.

With energy density exceeding 0.4 J/cc, a single ULP capacitor provides much greater bulk storage in a smaller footprint than a bank of low-profile SMT capacitors. Due to its light weight, the ULP is suited for use in portable devices and is well-suited for a wide range of applications where height profile, board space, and weight are critical design factors.  In such situations, the ULP is not only cost-competitive, but it also improves circuit reliability through use of a single component versus an entire array of SMT capacitors.

With flat ribbon-lead style terminations, it is even possible to mount the device off-board. This provides added design flexibility to maximize the use of available space.

Highlights

  • 2- or 3-mm profile
  • High energy density 0.4 J/cc
  • Replaces banks of solid tantalum chips
  • 3000 hr life @ 85ºC without voltage derating