Samsung Electro-Mechanics (SEMCO) is a major global supplier of multilayer ceramic capacitors, offering the CL series as its primary MLCC product line. The CL series provides a cost-effective alternative to other major MLCC brands while maintaining reliable performance across consumer, industrial, and automotive applications. This guide covers the CL series product structure, cross-reference methodology, and RFQ process for sourcing Samsung SEMCO MLCCs.
The Samsung SEMCO CL series designation follows a structured part numbering system. The first two characters after "CL" indicate the case size in EIA code:
Each case size is available with multiple dielectric options, capacitance values, voltage ratings, and termination materials. Samsung SEMCO MLCC products are widely sourced for consumer electronics, IoT devices, and industrial equipment.
Samsung SEMCO offers CL series MLCCs with several dielectric formulations, each optimized for specific application requirements.
C0G dielectric MLCCs provide ultra-stable capacitance with minimal temperature coefficient. These are preferred for RF applications, oscillators, and precision analog circuits. Samsung C0G MLCCs maintain tight capacitance tolerance across the full -55°C to +125°C temperature range.
X7R is a Class II dielectric with moderate temperature stability (±15% capacitance variation over -55°C to +125°C). X7R MLCCs offer higher capacitance density than C0G and are suitable for bypass, decoupling, and general-purpose coupling applications.
X5R provides even higher capacitance density than X7R but with a reduced operating temperature range of -55°C to +85°C. X5R MLCCs are commonly used in power supply decoupling where board space is constrained.
Y5V offers the highest capacitance density but with significant temperature and voltage dependence. Y5V is suitable only for non-critical applications where capacitance variation does not affect circuit performance.
| Dielectric | Temp Range | Capacitance Variation | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| C0G (NP0) | -55°C to +125°C | ±0.25pF or ±5% | RF, timing, precision |
| X7R | -55°C to +125°C | ±15% | General purpose |
| X5R | -55°C to +85°C | ±15% | Power decoupling |
| Y5V | -30°C to +85°C | +22%/-82% | Non-critical bypass |
Understanding the Samsung SEMCO part number structure helps in identifying the correct cross-reference alternatives. A typical Samsung CL series part number encodes the following information:
Format: CL [Size] [Dielectric] [Capacitance] [Voltage] [Tolerance] [Termination] [Packaging]
For example, in the part numbers listed in this guide, the systematic naming allows identification of key parameters. When requesting cross-reference support through the MLCC cross-reference tool, providing the complete part number ensures accurate alternative identification.
Cross-referencing Samsung CL series MLCCs to equivalents from other brands requires careful matching of electrical and mechanical parameters. The following steps outline the cross-reference process:
Common cross-reference scenarios include substituting Samsung CL series with Murata GRM series, TDK C series, or YAGEO CC series. Each substitution should be validated against the original design requirements.
| Parameter | CL03 (0201) | CL05 (0402) | CL10 (0603) | CL21 (0805) | CL31 (1206) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacitance Range (C0G) | 0.1pF to 100pF | 0.1pF to 1nF | 0.1pF to 10nF | 0.1pF to 22nF | 0.1pF to 47nF |
| Capacitance Range (X7R) | 100pF to 10nF | 100pF to 100nF | 100pF to 1uF | 1nF to 2.2uF | 1nF to 10uF |
| Capacitance Range (X5R) | 100pF to 22nF | 100pF to 220nF | 1nF to 2.2uF | 10nF to 4.7uF | 10nF to 22uF |
| Voltage Rating | 6.3V to 50V | 6.3V to 50V | 6.3V to 100V | 6.3V to 100V | 6.3V to 100V |
| Thickness (max) | 0.33mm | 0.55mm | 0.85mm | 1.25mm | 1.6mm |
| Application | Recommended Size | Dielectric | Voltage Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smartphone power management | CL03, CL05 | X5R, X7R | 6.3V to 16V |
| IoT RF modules | CL05, CL10 | C0G, X7R | 25V to 50V |
| Industrial control | CL10, CL21 | X7R | 25V to 100V |
| Automotive electronics | CL10, CL21, CL31 | X7R, X5R | 16V to 100V |
| Consumer electronics | CL05, CL10 | X7R, X5R | 6.3V to 25V |
| AI server decoupling | CL21, CL31 | X7R, X5R | 6.3V to 25V |
The following Samsung SEMCO CL series MLCC part numbers are available for sourcing and cross-reference inquiry:
For additional Samsung SEMCO part numbers, visit the Samsung SEMCO MLCC catalog or upload your BOM to request a comprehensive cross-reference quote.
When submitting an RFQ for Samsung SEMCO CL series MLCCs, include the following information to ensure accurate response:
Submit your RFQ through the MLCC RFQ form. Independent sourcing support can help locate available Samsung SEMCO MLCC inventory.
When sourcing Samsung SEMCO MLCCs, several factors should be considered to ensure successful procurement:
A: Use the MLCC cross-reference tool by entering the Samsung part number. Key parameters to match include case size, capacitance value, voltage rating, and dielectric type. Murata GRM series parts are often direct equivalents for Samsung CL series parts with the same case size and electrical characteristics.
A: Tolerance depends on the dielectric and capacitance value. C0G parts typically offer ±0.25pF, ±0.5pF, ±1%, or ±5% tolerance. X7R and X5R parts commonly have ±10% or ±20% tolerance. Precision applications should specify tighter tolerance requirements in the RFQ.
A: Yes, Samsung SEMCO produces automotive-grade MLCCs that are AEC-Q200 qualified. When sourcing for automotive applications, verify the specific part number is qualified and request automotive-grade certification if needed.
A: RFQ for sample availability. Independent sourcing support can help arrange sample quantities for evaluation and testing before committing to production volumes.
A: If a specific part is approaching EOL, request cross-reference support to identify alternative parts. Samsung typically provides PCN (Product Change Notice) in advance. Maintain an active RFQ relationship to stay informed about part availability changes.
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