Resistor capacitor (RC) networks are devices that contain a number of resistor-capacitor circuit elements. They are used in applications that require filtering and are commonly utilized as electro-magnetic interference (EMI) filters, electro-static discharge (ESD) protection, bus termination and suppressor/snubber circuits. Typical applications include automotive noise suppression, I/O port protection, radio frequency interference (RFI) suppression, power supply filtering and memory interface termination.

Devices are available that integrate clamping diodes in ESD specific devices to arrest voltage spikes. There are RC network arrays found in combination with Schottky barrier diodes for high speed bus terminations for improved impedance matching and reduced ringing. Suppressor/snubber networks are a combination of resistors and capacitors specifically designed to suppress noise and arcs. They are available with high voltage specifications and used in applications like relay contact protection.

RC networks have arrays of two port passive circuit elements containing series and parallel configurations of resistors and capacitors. These are typically configured as “PI” or “T” networks in low pass filtering applications. Devices with multiple circuits are said to have multiple channels. Multiple channel devices used for bus termination typically have a series resistor and capacitor with a shared capacitor ground pin for package pin out efficiency.

RC networks are specified by their cut-off frequency, attenuation value in the stop band and their series resistance at DC. Maximum current will also be specified, reflecting the maximum power dissipation of individual channels and the package overall. Resistor and capacitor values are typically specified along with the filter order. Some devices will accommodate for improved heat dissipation with an exposed pad under the device.