TDK-EPC, a group company of the TDK Corp., claims to have introduced the world’s first thin-film common mode filter (TCE1210 from TDK) with both high-speed differential transmission common mode noise suppression and ESD protection in a single component. Mass production is scheduled to begin this month (April 2010).

The new filter is the same size as the company’s existing common mode filters (1.25 by 1.00 by 0.60 mm³), but using the proprietary thin-film circuit formation and materials technologies, TDK successfully added an ESD suppressor function to the EMI function already present in the internal structure of existing filters. As a result, an additional varistor for ESD suppression is no longer needed. For manufacturers this means a reduction in the number of components and their mounting area, thus contributing to the further miniaturization of mobile devices.

The new filter’s cut-off frequency is 5.0 GHz, the common mode impedance is 90 Ω ±25 Ω, rated current is 100 mA, and ESD immunity complies with the IEC 61000-4-2 international surge standards. In addition, the filter’s low parasitic capacitance has almost no effect on the impedance characteristic (TDR measurement), making this filter suitable for use with high-speed, high-volume interfaces.