TDK chip varistor has 78 percent less volume

Suitable for static electricity counter-measures in cellphones, PDAs, laptop computers, digital still cameras and digital video cameras, the 0603 type (0.6-by-0.3mm) of multilayer chip varistor from TDK Corp. is claimed to be the industry's first.

The chip varistors were downsized to have approximately 78 percent less volume and 64 percent less area than the earlier 1005 types (1-by-0.5mm). This allows designers the capability to increase the number of varistors on small boards.

Lead-free, the product provides stability with small deterioration of properties even after impression by static electricity, and features high solder-wettability and solder heat resistance. Priced at 13 cents, the varistor's terminal electrodes are plated with nickel and tin, while the ground terminal has a coating of silver.