The effective output capacitance can range from 80μF (minimum) up to 400μF (maximum) for a single L-C system design. When using a second L-C filter, the first L-C filter must have output capacitance between 80μF and 160μF, the second stage L-C filter (if used) must have at least 20μF of capacitance, and the total capacitance for both L-C filters must be less than 400μF. Load transient testing and measuring the bode plot are good ways to verify stability.

TI recommends ceramic capacitors (X5R or X7R). Ceramic capacitors have a DC-Bias effect, which has a strong influence on the final effective capacitance. Choose the right capacitor carefully in combination with considering the package size and voltage rating. The ESR and ESL of the output capacitor are also important considerations in selecting the output capacitors for low noise applications. Smaller package sizes typically have lower ESL and ESR. TI recommends 0805 or smaller packages, as long as the packages provide the required capacitance and voltage rating for stable operation. Table 7-5 lists recommended output capacitors.