Knowles Precision Devices Blog

Practical Innovation at Knowles Precision Devices

Written by Peter Matthews | Aug 28, 2022 1:10:00 PM

Innovating essential high technology systems with demanding specifications is always challenging; making any sort of difference requires extensive resources and deep subject matter knowledge.

But that’s what keeps it interesting.

We handle the specialty components that go in systems you expect to work. Beneath the skin, our high reliability capacitors help sustain implantable medical devices. High frequency filters operate in neighborhood 5G Base Stations, and high voltage capacitors keep electric vehicles running. Underground, our high temperature capacitors perform at 200°C in pulse and detonation circuits for oil expiration.

Knowles Precision Devices is designed, from the inside out, for experience-based innovation. We make a difference in people’s lives by addressing the demanding technical and environmental challenges facing some of our most important technologies. That’s why our products can be found in every corner of the world, from thousands of feet below the earth’s surface to orbiting miles above us on the International Space Station.

Where We’ve Been

As a specialty components manufacturer, we choose to take on the complex challenges that come with high reliability, high temperature, high performance and high frequency solutions. We adapt and innovate along with our customers while maintaining a foundation of safety and reliability. In order to meet the evolving needs of our clients, we’ve expanded, and continue to expand, our portfolio of products and strategic acquisitions.

1980s

Dielectric Laboratories, (High-Q Multi-Layer Capacitors and Single-Layer Capacitors, Resonators, Filters, Broadband DC blocks, Thin Film components) became part of Dover Corporation and Novacap (MLCC products to serve unique and difficult high reliability, military and space requirements) joined the family.

2000s

In the early 2000s, Syfer (MLCC products to serve demanding commercial and industrial requirements) and Voltronics (world leader in precision variable capacitors) were brought in. Later in the decade, development of high CV capacitors led to the creation of StackiCap technology.

2010s

In 2014, Knowles Corporation was established as a publicly traded company with DLI, Novacap, Syfer, and Voltronics formed the new Precision Devices division.

More recently, Knowles has welcomed:

  • Johanson Manufacturing - a world-class supplier of trimmer capacitors, non-magnetic variable inductors and microwave tuning elements
  • Compex– strength in Single Layer Capacitors
  • DITF – expertise in Thin Film

Where We Are Today

Knowles Precision Devices is a collective of experts positioned to provide value across key areas in designing and innovating essential high technology systems, including:

  • Ceramic Dielectric Technology
  • Thin Film Technology
  • Packaging
  • Design for Reliability

Over the years, we’ve expanded our resources to establish a deep understanding of complex applications. In the process, we’ve managed to master capacitors, microwave components, and Build-to-Print. In addition to helping our customers innovate, we’ve done some pioneering of our own with flexible termination technology and stacked capacitors. Now, KPD the premier manufacturing of the following:

Capacitors
  • Single Layer Capacitors for High Frequency
  • Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors for Automotive and Communications (High Performance)
  • Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors for Medical, Military, Energy and Space (High Reliability)
  • Trimmer Capacitors
  • Non Magnetic Capacitors for Medical
RF Components
  • Filters
  • Couplers
  • Dividers
  • Gain Equalizers
  • Resonators

Thin Film Technology

  • Custom Thin Film Devices and Build To Print services

These products are found in a variety of highly engineered capacitors and microwave to millimeter wave components—radar, pacemakers, MRI equipment, satellites, airplanes, electric vehicles and mobile phone base stations are just a few.

Our commitment to innovation and ongoing creativity in manufacturing allows us to provide the highest performing components for the most challenging applications.

Learn more about Knowles heritage in providing specialty components for mission critical applications.