Tdk | X-ON

TDK Electronics AG, a part of the globally renowned TDK Corporation, is a premier manufacturer and supplier of electronic components and systems. Based in Germany and formerly known as EPCOS AG, TDK Electronics is instrumental in designing and producing a wide array of high-quality passive components including capacitors, inductors, filters, and protection devices. The company is a cornerstone of the global electronics industry, supporting cutting-edge applications across automotive, industrial, telecommunications, medical, and consumer electronics.

Combining Japanese innovation and German engineering excellence, TDK Electronics offers products that enhance efficiency, safety, and reliability in modern electronic systems.

Background and Legacy

Founded as EPCOS in 1999 through a joint venture between Siemens and Matsushita, the company became part of TDK Corporation in 2008 and was renamed TDK Electronics AG in 2019. TDK itself was founded in 1935 in Tokyo, Japan, originally to commercialize ferrite—a key material in electronic components. Today, TDK is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise with operations in over 30 countries.

TDK Electronics continues this tradition of innovation, with advanced research facilities, production centers, and a commitment to sustainability and quality.

Core Product Portfolio

TDK Electronics specializes in passive components, sensors, and energy systems. Its portfolio includes:

1. Capacitors

TDK is one of the world’s top manufacturers of capacitors:

• Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs)

• Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

• Film Capacitors

• Tantalum and Polymer Capacitors

These capacitors are crucial in applications like power supplies, automotive electronics, and renewable energy systems.

2. Inductors

From high-frequency chip inductors to power inductors for automotive and industrial applications, TDK offers:

• SMD power inductors

• Toroidal and choke inductors

• Ferrite cores and transformers

These components help in filtering, signal processing, and managing EMI (electromagnetic interference).

3. EMC and RF Components

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) solutions are vital in modern electronic design:

• Common-mode chokes

• EMI filters

• Baluns and antenna matching components

TDK’s RF components ensure optimal signal integrity and compliance with EMC regulations.

4. Surge Protection Devices

TDK is a leader in protective components such as:

• Varistors

• TVS diodes

• Gas discharge tubes

• Thermistors

These help safeguard devices from voltage spikes, ESD, and overcurrent conditions.

5. Sensors and Sensor Systems

With growing demand in IoT, automotive, and industrial automation, TDK’s sensors include:

• Temperature and pressure sensors

• MEMS motion sensors

• Hall-effect sensors

• Current sensors

TDK’s sensor innovations are critical in enabling smart, connected, and autonomous systems.

Key Applications Across Industries

TDK Electronics' components are widely used in various high-growth sectors:

1. Automotive Electronics

As vehicles become more electrified and autonomous, TDK supports:

• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

• Electric drivetrain components

• Battery management systems

• Onboard chargers and DC-DC converters

2. Industrial Automation

TDK components are embedded in:

• Motor drives

• Robotics

• Power inverters

• Renewable energy systems (wind, solar)

3. Telecommunications

For 5G and networking infrastructure, TDK provides:

• High-frequency filters

• Baluns and duplexers

• Power line and signal conditioning components

4. Consumer Electronics

From smartphones and laptops to smartwatches and gaming consoles, TDK delivers compact, efficient components that support sleek designs and extended battery life.

5. Medical Equipment

TDK’s precision capacitors and EMI filters ensure reliability and safety in medical devices such as imaging systems, monitors, and diagnostic tools.

Technological Innovations

TDK is known for pioneering several material and component technologies:

1. CeraCharge®

The world’s first solid-state SMD rechargeable battery—offering safety, miniaturization, and stability for IoT and wearable devices.

2. Midas Touch in Ferrite Technology

TDK remains a world leader in ferrite materials—crucial for magnetic components like transformers and inductors.

3. SmartSensor™ Platform

A portfolio of advanced sensor modules that integrate MEMS and ASICs for real-time environmental, motion, and positioning detection.

4. High-Reliability Capacitors

Used in EVs and aerospace, these components are designed to operate under extreme temperature and voltage conditions.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is central to TDK’s corporate philosophy. The company aims to:

• Achieve carbon neutrality by 2050

• Promote green manufacturing processes

• Reduce use of conflict minerals and hazardous substances

• Develop eco-friendly product designs

TDK Electronics also participates in numerous industry and global initiatives for environmental protection, such as the UN Global Compact and Responsible Business Alliance.

Global Footprint and Manufacturing

TDK Electronics operates a wide-reaching network of facilities:

• R&D Centers: Germany, Japan, the USA, China, and Singapore

• Manufacturing Sites: Located in Europe, Asia, and Latin America

• Sales Offices: Over 140 offices worldwide, enabling local support

Their scalable, globally distributed production system ensures reliable supply to OEMs and distributors across markets.

Distribution and Support

TDK Electronics partners with major global distributors for product availability and technical support, including:

• Xon Electronics – A preferred supplier for TDK passive components, EMI filters, and inductors.

• Mouser Electronics, Digi-Key, Arrow, and Avnet – Providing global stock, datasheets, and design-in tools.

Design engineers can also access TDK’s product selectors, SPICE models, and simulation tools to accelerate development.

Strategic Acquisitions and Expansion

TDK has strategically expanded its product offerings through acquisitions:

• InvenSense (2017) – MEMS sensor specialist

• Tronics Microsystems – MEMS and nano-sensors

• Epcos – Now fully integrated as TDK Electronics AG

• ICsense – Custom ASIC design solutions

These acquisitions align with TDK’s goal to be a system-level component provider, offering integrated solutions rather than just standalone parts.

Awards and Recognition

TDK Electronics has received multiple accolades for:

• Innovation in power and energy components

• Quality manufacturing and reliability

• Sustainable business practices

• Customer service excellence

Conclusion

TDK Electronics is not just a passive component manufacturer—it is an enabler of innovation in the digital and energy transformation age. With its vast portfolio of capacitors, inductors, filters, and sensors, TDK serves as a foundational supplier to countless electronic systems powering today’s smart and sustainable technologies.

By continuously pushing the boundaries of material science, miniaturization, and environmental responsibility, TDK Electronics stands out as a trusted partner for engineers, OEMs, and tech innovators worldwide.