PTC thermistor solution for space-limited designs

Murata has expanded its portfolio of positive temperature coefficient (PTC) surface-mount chip thermistors for overheat sensing.

The PRF03BB541NB7RL has been optimised for incorporation into various forms of consumer electronic products and equipment such as wearable technology, smartphone handsets and tablets.

Supplied in a 0201 format (with 0.6mm x 0.3mm x 0.3mm dimensions), they have been designed to give engineers one of the smallest overheat sensing solutions currently available. The thermistors offer elevated levels of accuracy (±5°C at lower sensing temperatures, and up to ±7°C at higher sensing temperatures) as well as rapid responsiveness. Their resistance values increase sharply once above the Curie temperature, which means that overheat situations can be addressed quickly, reducing the risk of damage to circuitry.

These thermistors directly benefit from Murata’s proprietary ceramic technology, with innovations being realised in relation to both the raw material composition and sintering procedure too. The result is that a significant downsizing can be achieved without any compromise in performance. Furthermore, the thermistors have strong operational stability and do not generate any noise which would otherwise affect neighbouring components.

The PRF03BB541NB7RL exhibits extreme robustness and has a maximum voltage rating of 32 VDC - it also supports an extensive working temperature range of 20°C to +150°C.

Samples are available now with mass production set to begin in June 2021.