#South Korea #Seoul #Lidar #Samsung #MLCC

Samsung Electro-Mechanics Unveils Innovative MLCC for LiDAR Applications

On February 5, 2025, Samsung Electro-Mechanics made headlines by introducing the world's first multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) specifically designed for LiDAR applications, a critical technology for autonomous driving. This newly developed MLCC boasts a capacitance of 2.2 microfarads (uF) and functions at a voltage of 10 volts, fitted into a compact size of 1005 (1.0 mm by 0.5 mm).

This groundbreaking product represents a significant leap in technology, as it offers a voltage capacity 60% higher than the existing standard of 6.3 volts. More importantly, it is the first high-voltage capacitor to receive AEC-Q200 certification, indicating that it meets rigorous reliability standards tailored for the automotive industry.

The new MLCC meets the growing demands of LiDAR systems, which are integral to autonomous driving technologies. These capacitors are essential for ensuring stable power supply and precise signal transmission across various automotive applications. Notably, the combination of high voltage and high capacitance has traditionally been challenging for MLCCs, as achieving higher voltage typically requires a thicker dielectric material, which in turn minimizes the number of dielectric layers that can be stacked, making it difficult to boost capacitance.

To overcome this dilemma, Samsung Electro-Mechanics has developed proprietary additives and a unique manufacturing process that minimizes voids within the dielectric material, enabling stable operation even at elevated voltages. Thus, the new MLCC offers reliability and performance necessary for diverse automotive functions, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), chassis operations, body electronics, and infotainment systems.

Choi Jeremy, Vice President and Head of the Component Solutions Division at Samsung Electro-Mechanics, remarked, "The increasing shift towards vehicle electrification has driven the demand for high-performance, reliable MLCCs. We are committed to enhancing our competitive edge by investing in key technologies related to materials, equipment, and production processes tailored for MLCCs, while also responding proactively to growth markets focused on high-quality products."

The introduction of this innovative MLCC is expected to reinforce Samsung Electro-Mechanics' position as a leader in the automotive component market, emphasizing the importance of advanced technologies in the evolving landscape of autonomous driving. With this new product, Samsung continues to expand its portfolio of ceramic capacitors catered to the demands of modern vehicles, highlighting its commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence in electronic components.

In conclusion, the unveiling of the world's first high-voltage MLCC designed for LiDAR applications marks a significant milestone for Samsung Electro-Mechanics and the automotive industry at large. As the world moves toward greater reliance on autonomous driving technologies, the need for effective and efficient components like this MLCC will only grow, setting the stage for a new era of innovation in automotive electronics.