Microchip Technology GC1213-23-0/TR

Overview

GC1213-23-0/TR from Microsemi is a silicon abrupt-junction varactor diode in SOT-23 package, rated for 30 V maximum working voltage, with nominal capacitance of 10.0 pF at 4 V reverse bias (±10%), capacitance ratio CT(0V)/CT(−30V) ≥ 4.1, and minimum Q of 1800 at 4 V / 50 MHz - used for low-phase-noise VCO tuning in HF–1500 MHz systems.

For engineers reviewing the GC1213-23-0/TR datasheet, GC1213-23-0/TR pinout, GC1213-23-0/TR application, or GC1213-23-0/TR equivalent, key selection criteria include capacitance tolerance, Q factor at operating frequency, thermal coefficient of capacitance (300 ppm/°C), leakage current limits (≤0.02 µA @ 25°C), and SOT-23-0 single-diode configuration compatibility with surface-mount VCO layouts.

Technical Context

This device operates as a voltage-variable capacitor via reverse-biased abrupt junction, where capacitance varies inversely with applied DC bias. Its high Q (≥1800 @ 4 V / 50 MHz) and low series resistance enable minimal phase noise degradation in oscillator tank circuits.

The 300 ppm/°C thermal coefficient of capacitance and −55°C to +125°C operating range support stable tuning across industrial temperature environments. It is RoHS-compliant with gold-plated terminations and ESD-sensitive handling requirements.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23-0 package: three-terminal surface-mount plastic case with single-anode/single-cathode configuration; terminals are anode (Pin 1), cathode (Pin 2), and unused (Pin 3) - Pin 3 is internally unconnected and must be left floating or grounded per layout best practice.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar varactor diode applications.

Compared with GC1213-23-0/TR, MAVR-000120-1411 offers higher capacitance but lower Q, making it suitable for lower-frequency VCOs where tuning range dominates noise; SMV1232-011 delivers superior Q in a smaller package but demands PCB redesign and thermal reassessment.

Availability

GC1213-23-0/TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for HF–UHF VCO design, voltage-variable filter development, and RF phase shifter implementation requiring stable component supply and consistent parametric performance across production lots.

Supply support for GC1213-23-0/TR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microsemi (now part of Microchip Technology) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability analog, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The GCX1200–23 series was designed specifically for low-phase-noise, moderate-bandwidth RF tuning applications - emphasizing high Q, tight capacitance tolerance, and robust thermal stability in compact SOT-23 packaging.

FAQ

What is the nominal capacitance and tolerance of GC1213-23-0/TR at 4 V reverse bias?

The GC1213-23-0/TR has a nominal capacitance of 10.0 pF at 4 V reverse bias, with a standard tolerance of ±10%. This value is measured at 1 MHz and defines the baseline tuning point for VCO and filter designs. The tolerance directly impacts frequency accuracy in production units and must be accounted for in worst-case analysis of tuning range.

Does GC1213-23-0/TR support operation up to 1500 MHz?

Yes, GC1213-23-0/TR is specified for use in applications from HF through 1500 MHz, as confirmed in Microsemi's official documentation. Its high Q (≥1800 @ 50 MHz) and low series resistance maintain effective capacitive behavior across this band, though actual usable upper frequency depends on layout parasitics and bias network design.

What is the meaning of the "-0" suffix in GC1213-23-0/TR?

The "-0" in GC1213-23-0/TR denotes the SOT-23-0 configuration: a single varactor diode with anode (Pin 1), cathode (Pin 2), and unconnected Pin 3. This distinguishes it from dual or common-cathode variants (e.g., -4). The "/TR" indicates tape-and-reel packaging for automated assembly - essential for consistent pick-and-place yield with GC1213-23-0/TR.

Is GC1213-23-0/TR RoHS compliant and what termination finish does it use?

Yes, GC1213-23-0/TR is RoHS compliant per EU Directive 2002/95/EC and uses gold-plated terminations, as stated in the official Microsemi datasheet. The gold finish ensures reliable solderability in lead-free reflow profiles and prevents intermetallic degradation during thermal cycling - a critical reliability factor for GC1213-23-0/TR in long-life RF modules.

How does the thermal coefficient of capacitance affect GC1213-23-0/TR in VCO designs?

The GC1213-23-0/TR has a thermal coefficient of capacitance (TCC) of +300 ppm/°C, meaning its capacitance increases by 0.03% per °C rise. In VCOs, this causes frequency drift with temperature unless compensated - designers must either include temperature compensation circuitry or select inductors with opposing TCC to stabilize GC1213-23-0/TR-based oscillators across −55°C to +125°C.