GC15001-17

Overview

The GC15001-17 is a silicon epitaxial mesa Frequency Linear Tuning Varactor (FLTVAR) designed for wideband linear tuning in VCO and filter applications. It features superior passivation for high reliability, low leakage current, and low surface noise. The device offers Q values well above ion-implanted hyperabrupt diodes and meets RoHS requirements with a standard gold terminal finish. Operating temperature ranges from -55°C to +125°C. Electrical parameters at 25°C include a minimum breakdown voltage of 22V at 10μA reverse current, a capacitance of 0.7pF at -4V, 0.2pF at -20V, sensitivity of .08, a tuning ratio of 8:1, and a typical Q of 1400 at 4V and 50MHz.

Feature Summary

• Frequency Linear Tuning Varactor providing wideband linear tuning without external linearization
• Superior passivation ensuring high reliability, low leakage current, and low surface noise
• High Q factor performance exceeding ion-implanted hyperabrupt diodes
• RoHS compliant construction with standard gold terminal finish

Applications

• Voltage Controlled Oscillators (VCOs)
• Filters
• Modulators
• Amplifiers

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix against official documentation to confirm package style. The suffix '17' indicates a hermetic stripline surface mount package. Confirm that this package type aligns with your circuit design requirements, as alternative non-hermetic or chip styles are available within the series. Consult the manufacturer for special packaging requests.

Selection Notes

Select based on required capacitance range and linearity. The GC15001-17 provides 0.7pF at -4V and 0.2pF at -20V with an 8:1 tuning ratio. Ensure the application benefits from frequency linear characteristics over one octave. Verify that the operating environment stays within the -55°C to +125°C range and that ESD precautions are observed during handling.

Part Context

This component belongs to the GC15000 series of frequency-linear tuning varactors manufactured by Microsemi (now part of Microchip Technology). The series covers models GC15001 through GC15013, offering various capacitance values while maintaining consistent linearity and Q characteristics suitable for Ku band applications.

Replacement Considerations

Other models in the GC15000 series (e.g., GC15002-17) offer different capacitance values but share similar electrical characteristics. Alternative package styles such as GC15xxxx-00 (chip) or GC15xxxx-450A (non-hermetic SMT) may be considered if hermeticity is not required.