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WHAT'S YOUR ENGINEERING QUOTIENT?

Problem 2—The high volumetric efficiency (capacitance ý voltage rating / case size) of tantalum capacitors is great for producing compact products, but this can lead directly to another problem. What is it? (Hint: think ESR)

ESR stands for Equivalent Series Resistance, which means that the AC current through the capacitor generates heat. The tiny case of the capacitor prevents the heat from dissipating effectively, leading to potential thermal runaway if the capacitor is carrying excessive ripple currents.

There's an excellent discussion of tantalum capacitors and their failure modes in INK #52 ConnecTime.

Contributor: Dave Tweed

02-02 — NEXT Q&A