Vishay HVArc Guard® SMT Capacitors for Low-Power VM Application Owners' Manual - User Guide
Summary
Vishay HVArc Guard Surface-Mount Capacitors are engineered for robust, low-power voltage multiplier applications generating high voltages (>1000 V). These specialized components prevent costly surface arc-over failures—a common issue in high-voltage circuits—eliminating the need for excessive board coatings or component spacing. This application guide details how to implement these capacitors in cascaded multipliers and covers technical specifications, impedance charts, and ordering information, making it essential for designers building high-voltage systems such as medical X-ray units, air ionizers, and oscilloscopes.
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Capacitor Products Application Note
HVArc Guard® Surface-Mount Capacitors for Low-Power Voltage Multiplier Applications
Voltage multipliers can generate very high voltages due to capacitors and diodes that charge and discharge in an inverter circuit that feeds a step-up transformer, which is alternating half cycles of the applied AC voltage, is shown connected to the multiplier circuit. An example of a typical in the diagram below.
voltage multiplier, which is simply a circuit comprised of
HVArc Guard® Capacitors
Figure 1. Series Multiplier for HV Applications
Cascading voltage doubler cells, as shown in the circuit, voltage is produced from a low battery or supply voltage in result in a high-voltage output. Applications for voltage medical X-ray systems, air ionizers, and oscilloscopes, and multipliers include flyback converters, where a high instrumentation requiring a high-voltage power supply.
Surface Arc-Over Problems in High-Voltage Applications When a high voltage potential is applied at > 1000 V, an be added to isolate the high-voltage section from other arc-over between the terminals, or from terminal to case, sections of the board. Although coatings add cost to the will occur. To eliminate any arc-over, an overcoating can be process and the design, they are required in some
applied to the board, or additional board layout spacing can applications to meet electrical safety standards.
Figure 1. Standard High Voltage MLCC with voltage applied causing Figure 2. Standard High Voltage MLCC surface typical
surface arc-over between terminations arc-over failure site
Document Number: 45058 For technical support, contact www.vishay.com Revision: 17-Aug-07 [email protected]
Page Summary Contents For Vishay HVArc Guard® SMT Capacitors for Low-Power VM Application Owners' Manual - User Guide
Manual Details
| Brand | Vishay |
|---|---|
| Pages | 4 |
| File Size | 282.28 KB |
| Published | May 28, 2026 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of HVArc Guard Capacitors?
They are designed for low-power voltage multiplier applications and help prevent surface arc-over in high-voltage circuits.
How do these capacitors save costs during board manufacturing?
By eliminating the need for costly manual overcoating processes.
What types of dielectrics are available for HVArc Guard Capacitors?
They are available in both NP0 and X7R dielectrics.
Are these components suitable for medical applications?
No, the products shown are not designed for use in medical, life-saving, or life-sustaining applications.