New Industry Products

Series-Connected Supercap Modules Optimized for Pulse Power Handling

March 15, 2018 by Paul Shepard

AVX Corporation has released a new series of supercapacitor modules. Comprised of series-connected cylindrical, electrochemical, double-layer supercapacitors, the new SCM Series supercapacitor modules are currently available in two voltage ratings (5V and 5.4V), and exhibit optimal pulse power handling characteristics, including: high capacitance values (0.47F to 7.5F ±20% tolerance), low ESR (4mΩ to 300mΩ at 1,000KHz), low leakage (2µA to 1,000µA), high energy density (1 to 5.6Wh/kg), and long lifetime performance (50,000+ cycles).

Designed to provide reliable hold-up, energy harvesting, and pulse power solutions, SCM Series modules can be used alone or in conjunction with primary or secondary batteries to provide extended backup time, longer battery life, and instantaneous pulse power in applications including: uninterrupted power supplies (UPS), wireless alarms, remote meters, global systems mobile (GSM) and galvanic skin response (GSR) transmissions, camera flash systems, scanners, toys, and games.

"Our new SCM Series supercapacitor modules deliver optimal pulse power handling characteristics that significantly outperform the competition at a very competitive price," said Shawn Hansen, the worldwide business manager for specialty capacitors at AVX.

SCM Series supercapacitor modules are rated for use in operating temperatures spanning -40°C to +65°C at 5.0- to  5.4-V balanced, or, with voltage de-rated to 3.9- to 4.6-V per cell, -40°C to +85°C balanced. Unbalanced options are also available.

Packaged in plastic or shrink-wrapped cases spanning 14mm to 24mm in length with vertical or horizontal radial leads, the series is compatible with hand, reflow, and wave soldering so long as appropriate precautions are enacted, and is both lead-free compatible and RoHS compliance compatible.

All SCM Series parts are tested and qualified for life cycle, high temperature load-life, temperature and humidity characteristics, and vibration resistance, and are shipped in bulk packaging. Current lead-time for the series is four to eight weeks, and custom modules are available upon request.