SP-470uF-16V
Ultra-low ESR solid polymer capacitor with 470uF and 16V rating for high-frequency applications.
Product Overview
Description
The SP-470uF-16V is a high-performance solid polymer aluminum capacitor designed for high-frequency applications. With 470uF capacitance and ultra-low ESR of just 8mOhm, it provides exceptional filtering for switching power supplies.
This surface-mount capacitor features a compact 8x8mm case size suitable for high-density PCB designs. The solid polymer construction eliminates the risk of drying out and provides extremely long lifetime.
Rated for 100,000 hours at 105C with 8A ripple current capability, this capacitor is ideal for computer motherboards, graphics cards, and high-reliability power supplies.
Product Series
SP
Primary Application
Computer motherboards
Key Features
- Ultra-low ESR 8mOhm
- High ripple current 8A
- 100,000 hour lifetime
- SMD mounting
- Compact 8x8mm size
Specifications
| Capacitance | 470uF +/-20% |
|---|---|
| Voltage Rating | 16V DC |
| ESR | 8mOhm max @ 100kHz |
| Ripple Current | 8A @ 105C, 100kHz |
| Temperature Range | -55C to +105C |
| Lifetime | 100,000 hours @ 105C |
| Mounting | SMD |
| Dimensions | 8mm x 8mm x 8mm L |
Applications
Computer motherboards
Electronic system design
Graphics cards
Electronic system design
High-frequency power supplies
Electronic system design
Telecom equipment
Electronic system design
FAE Expert Insights
"The SP-470uF-16V is my top recommendation for high-frequency DC-DC converters and VRM applications. The 8mOhm ESR is exceptional - about 20x lower than an equivalent electrolytic capacitor. This translates to much better filtering and significantly lower ripple voltage. The 8A ripple current capability handles the high switching currents in modern processors. I've used this capacitor in server motherboards and graphics cards with excellent results. The 100,000 hour lifetime means it will outlast most other components in the system."
Ultra-low 8mOhm ESR; 8A ripple current; 100,000 hour lifetime; ideal for VRM applications
— Michael Zhang, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes solid polymer capacitors different from electrolytic?
Solid polymer capacitors use a conductive solid polymer instead of liquid electrolyte. This provides ultra-low ESR (5-50mOhm vs 50-500mOhm for electrolytic), much higher ripple current capability, longer lifetime (no drying out), stable performance over temperature, and no risk of leakage. The trade-off is higher cost (3-5x) and typically lower maximum voltage ratings.
Use solid polymer when low ESR, high ripple current, and long lifetime are critical. Use electrolytic for cost-sensitive applications.
What is the ESR and why is it important?
ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) is the resistive component of a capacitor's impedance. This capacitor has just 8mOhm ESR - about 20x lower than an equivalent electrolytic capacitor. Low ESR is critical because it reduces ripple voltage, minimizes power dissipation (heat), and improves filtering effectiveness at high frequencies. In VRM applications, low ESR directly translates to better voltage regulation and lower ripple.
For high-frequency applications, always select capacitors with lowest practical ESR.
What is the ripple current capability?
Rated ripple current is 8A at 105C and 100kHz. This exceptional ripple current capability is enabled by the ultra-low ESR. The capacitor can handle the high switching currents typical of modern DC-DC converters without excessive heating. At lower temperatures, even higher ripple currents can be supported.
The 8A rating is suitable for high-current VRM and DC-DC applications.
How long will this capacitor last?
Rated lifetime is 100,000 hours at 105C - that's over 11 years of continuous operation at maximum temperature. Since solid polymer capacitors don't dry out like electrolytics, they maintain their performance throughout their lifetime. At typical operating temperatures of 60-80C, expected lifetime extends to 200,000-400,000+ hours (20-45+ years). This makes them essentially maintenance-free for most applications.
For applications requiring 10+ year lifetime, solid polymer is the best choice.
Is this capacitor suitable for VRM applications?
Yes, this capacitor is specifically designed for VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) applications in computers and servers. The ultra-low 8mOhm ESR provides excellent voltage regulation and low ripple for CPU and GPU power delivery. The 8A ripple current capability handles the high transient currents in modern processors. The compact SMD package fits in the tight spaces typical of motherboard designs.
Ideal for VRM, CPU power, GPU power, and high-current DC-DC applications.