Ceramic Multilayer Capacitor in Signal Filtering Experiment

Objective

The objective of this experiment is to explore the use of a ceramic multilayer capacitor (MLCC) in signal filtering applications, such as low-pass filters, and to understand its role in eliminating high-frequency noise.

Required Components

Circuit Setup

In this experiment, we will build a simple RC low-pass filter using an MLCC and a resistor. The capacitor will allow low-frequency signals to pass while attenuating high-frequency signals.

  1. Place a 1 kΩ resistor in series with the input signal on a breadboard.
  2. Connect the ceramic multilayer capacitor between the output of the resistor and ground, forming an RC low-pass filter.
  3. Attach the function generator to provide a sinusoidal input signal to the filter circuit.
  4. Connect the oscilloscope to observe the input and output signals at different frequencies.

Experiment Steps

  1. Set the function generator to output a sine wave signal with a frequency of 1 kHz and observe the input and output signals on the oscilloscope.
  2. Gradually increase the frequency of the signal and monitor the behavior of the output signal across the capacitor.
  3. Record the amplitude of the output signal at various frequencies (e.g., 1 kHz, 10 kHz, 100 kHz, 1 MHz) to observe the cutoff point of the filter.
  4. Compare the input and output signals to determine the effectiveness of the ceramic capacitor in filtering high-frequency noise.
  5. Optionally, use a multimeter to measure the voltage across the resistor and capacitor to confirm the voltage drop at different frequencies.

Analysis

Analyze the data by plotting the output signal amplitude versus frequency. Identify the cutoff frequency of the filter where the signal begins to attenuate. Discuss how the ceramic multilayer capacitor performed in filtering high-frequency signals, and note any anomalies or noise in the output signal.