The latest addition to the EPCOS line is a new generation of broadband filters for all major frequencies in the automotive market. These are available in the smaller DCC6C package with a footprint of only 3 mm x 3 mm. Typical insertion loss has been reduced by a least 1 dB to a low value of only 1.7 dB in type B3711.

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The DCC6C package has been introduced as a new platform for the single-port resonators as well. Volume production of resonators for major frequencies in the 300 and 400 MHz bands has started. These have a typical tolerance of ±75 kHz and a wider tolerance of ±100 kHz in a low-cost variant. This progress in miniaturization has been made possible by combining decades of know-how in developing SAW components with optimized, state-of-the-art design software, and by applying the new ELPAS electrode passivation technique, which has no effect on space requirements, according to the manufacturer.

These advances open up new opportunities for designing transmitter and receiver circuits that are not only smaller, but more economical than PLL-based solutions. They offer decisive competitive advantages to manufacturers of keyless entry or tire pressure monitoring systems in the automotive electronics industry.

Resonators are the first choice when it comes to designing particularly economical and reliable transmitters for millions of alarm systems or remote controls for opening garage doors. Even LC oscillators of lower selectivity, which up until now have been cheaper, no longer represent an economical alternative because they require more tuning during manufacture.

The new SAW filters in miniature packages will, of course, undergo qualifying tests for compliance with the environmental requirements of AEC Q200 before their market launch. All manufacturing facilities have been certified to ISO/TS 16949, and complete Level 3 PPAP documentation is available.