8.2.2.6 External Capacitor Selection

The LM27761 requires 4 external capacitors for proper operation. Surface-mount multi-layer ceramic capacitors are recommended. These capacitors are small, inexpensive, and have very low ESR (≤ 15 mΩ typical). Tantalum capacitors, OS-CON capacitors, and aluminum electrolytic capacitors generally are not recommended for use with the LM27761 due to their high ESR compared to ceramic capacitors.

For most applications, ceramic capacitors with an X7R or X5R temperature characteristic are preferable for use with the LM27761. These capacitors have tight capacitance tolerances (as good as ±10%) and hold their value over temperature (X7R: ±15% over –55°C to +125°C; X5R ±15% over –55°C to +85°C).

Using capacitors with a Y5V or Z5U temperature characteristic is generally not recommended for the LM27761. These capacitors typically have wide capacitance tolerance (80%, ….20%) and vary significantly over temperature (Y5V: 22%, –82% over –30°C to +85°C range; Z5U: 22%, –56% over 10°C to 85°C range). Under some conditions a 1-µF-rated Y5V or Z5U capacitor could have a capacitance as low as 0.1 µF. Such detrimental deviation is likely to cause Y5V and Z5U capacitors to fail to meet the minimum capacitance requirements of the LM27761.

Net capacitance of a ceramic capacitor decreases with increased DC bias. This degradation can result in lower-than-expected capacitance on the input and/or output, resulting in higher ripple voltages and currents. Using capacitors at DC bias voltages significantly below the capacitor voltage rating usually minimizes DC bias effects. Consult capacitor manufacturers for information on capacitor DC bias characteristics.

Capacitance characteristics can vary quite dramatically with different application conditions, capacitor types, and capacitor manufacturers. TI strongly recommends that the LM27761 circuit be evaluated thoroughly early in the design-in process with the mass-production capacitor of choice. This helps ensure that any such variability in capacitance does not negatively impact circuit performance.