piclist-bounces@mit.edu wrote:
>> A fancy way (but is not always true) I'm often use for unknown
>> tantal SMD is: the bigger SMD package (for the same capacitor value)
>> has usualy the lowest ESR value.
> 
> Seems logical. But both regulators mention both an upper and
> a lower bound on the ESR, I guess I'll have to take some care.

that's generally true. As the plate area goes up, the ESR goes down, assuming the dielectric thickness stays the same. But does it specify at what frequency the ESR has to be in a certain range? The ESR changes with frequency.

>> LM2940 never gaves me problems.
> 
> Which output caps did you use (type, value, size)?

I've used xicon's esrl series (mouser) in the past (with the LM2940). I'm sure you can find something similar in NL. They make low ESR caps, and specifically caps for switch-mode power supplies are typically low esr. I confess I did use a 'generic' electrolytic once. Worked fine. This was for my use. I would not think of doing that in production.

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