Name: /Tools-Info/Green Trimmer
Brand: EstiSource
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Green Trimmer (Murata Ceramic Trimmer Capacitor)

is an adjustable capacitor used for fine-tuning circuit parameters such as frequency, phase, or timing. Murata’s Green Trimmer series are miniature SMD multi-turn capacitors (TZ family) designed for on-board adjustment. They occupy very little space (as small as 3.2×4.5mm) and allow designers to dial in exact capacitance during calibration. These parts are common in crystal oscillators, filters, RF front-ends and timing circuits, providing a low-cost way to trim out component tolerances or drift. Murata’s TZ series touts “an economical, space-saving, high-performance tuning capacitor” suitable for everything from digital timing circuits to RF receivers and transmitters.

How EstiSource Helps

EstiSource specializes in sourcing hard-to-find electronics parts like Murata trimmer capacitors. We maintain up-to-date databases on part lifecycles, so we can quickly flag if a Murata Green Trimmer is obsolete (as in the TZC3P300 case) and suggest qualified alternatives. Our team can locate authorized stock or factory new units from global distributors. We also break down the component’s cost drivers (ceramic material, precious metals, assembly) to provide transparent pricing. For example, knowing that precious metals comprise ~60% of the value helps us negotiate costs. EstiSource can coordinate prototypes or production quantities, ensuring the Murata trimmers or their substitutes meet your performance needs while fitting your budget.

Why Choose EstiSource for Sourcing Green Trimmer

When you need Murata Green Trimmers or any precision capacitor, EstiSource offers a one-stop solution. We have deep expertise in passive components and strong relationships with global suppliers of Murata and equivalent brands. Our analysts verify each quote for authenticity and compliance, so you get genuine parts at competitive prices. If a Murata part is unavailable, we leverage our network to source form-fit substitutes (with documented testing support). Additionally, our platform provides fast turn-around quotes and detailed cost analysis, helping you make informed procurement decisions. In short, EstiSource streamlines the sourcing process for specialty parts like the Murata Green Trimmer, minimizing lead time and ensuring quality for your electronic assemblies.

1. Material Composition

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2. Manufacturing Process

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3. Challenges and Limitations

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4. Costing

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5. Properties and Characteristics

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Capacitance Range

Typically from a few pF up to tens of pF. For example, Murata’s TZC3 series offers 6.5–30 pF (100 V), while a TZB4 series covers 7–50 pF (50 V). The full TZ family spans roughly 0.5–120 pF.

Voltage Rating

Usually 50 V or 100 V DC (depending on series). Some specialized high-voltage models (e.g. TZW4) go up to 250 V.

Dielectric Stability

Many use Class 1 ceramics (C0G/NP0) for low tempco (0 ±30 ppm/°C), but large-range versions often use Class 2 (e.g. N750/N1500) which are ±300–500 ppm/°C or more. Typical temperature drift is a few percent over range.

Q Factor

Moderate at RF frequencies. A 50 pF trimmer may have Q≈300 @1 MHz. Highly specialized trimmers (with sapphire or air dielectric) can reach Q~1500, but Murata’s TZ parts are on the lower side of that. These parts have very high self-resonant frequency (good for VHF/UHF use).

Adjustment

Multi-turn screw (often 2–5 turns) with a standard #0 screwdriver. Some styles are “self-centering” to enable automated picking.

Tolerance

Often ±0.5 pF or a few percent of full range (depending on series).

Dimensions

Compact SMD. Common sizes are ~3.2×4.5×1.6 mm (TZC3) or 4.5×4.0×3.2 mm (TZB4).

Temperature

−25°C to +85°C operating range (some sealed types rated to +125°C).

Features

Murata offers sealed versions (suitable for cleaning). Terminations are lead-free (Sn on Ni) and all trimmers comply with RoHS/ELV.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: What capacitance range and voltage do Murata Green Trimmers cover?

It varies by series. For example, a Murata TZB4R500AB10R00 is specified as 7–50 pF at 50 V DC. A smaller TZC3P300A110R00 covers 6.5–30 pF at 100 V. The overall TZ family spans roughly 0.5–120 pF. Always check the specific Murata datasheet for exact ranges and ratings.

Q: How stable is the capacitance with temperature?

Stability depends on dielectric. Many Murata trimmers use NP0/C0G (±0–30 ppm/°C) for minimal drift, but larger-value parts may use N1500 or N750 ceramics (±300–750 ppm/°C). In practice, expect on the order of ±1–5% capacitance change over full temperature range. If precision tuning is needed, choose the C0G/NPO versions and minimize extreme conditions.

Q: How should I adjust a Murata trimmer, and what precautions are there?

Use a proper-sized screwdriver. Murata warns not to apply excessive torque: limit the adjustment force to about 4.9 N (500 gf) on the screw, and avoid twisting the board with more than about 9.8 N (1 kgf) total. Excessive force can damage the rotor or contacts. Adjust slowly, in small increments. If fixing the tuned position, use a non-corrosive locking paint (Murata recommends a chlorine- and sulfur-free lacquer). The case is typically sealed, but keep flux residue away from the slot.

Q: Why is it called a “green” trimmer?

The term “green” refers to the component’s case color. Many trimmer capacitors are color-coded by range – green often indicates mid-range capacitance. For example, Farnell’s Multicomp Pro list shows a “Green” 50 pF trimmer with ±500 ppm/°C tempco. Murata’s green-body trimmers are similarly color-coded for quick ID of range (though always check the datasheet, as color coding schemes can vary).

Q: What alternatives exist if the Murata part is obsolete?

Some Murata trimmers (like the TZC and TZB series) have been discontinued. For example, Digi-Key notes “TZC3P300A110R00 is obsolete and no longer manufactured”. In that case, equivalents from other vendors can be used. For instance, Knowles Voltronics JZ or Johanson series trimmers cover similar ranges (e.g. JZ500 is 8–50 pF, 125 V). EstiSource can help identify and source suitable substitutes with matching specs.

Green Trimmer