Contents
1. What is AEC-Q200?
AEC-Q200 is a qualification standard for passive electronic components used in automotive applications, published by the Automotive Electronics Council (AEC). It defines a set of stress tests and failure criteria that a component must pass to be considered suitable for use in automotive systems.
The standard was developed in response to the automotive industry's need for a common qualification baseline across component suppliers. It supplements — but does not replace — the component manufacturer's own quality and reliability testing.
Qualification vs. Screening
AEC-Q200 qualification is performed on a sample of components from a new product or process to demonstrate reliability. It is a one-time (or periodic) characterisation activity. It is distinct from screening, which is 100% production testing applied to every part.
2. Key Test Requirements
AEC-Q200 Rev E defines test conditions and sample sizes for a range of stress tests. The most relevant for resistors are:
| Test | Condition (typical) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| High Temperature Exposure (HTE) | Tmax, 1000 hours, no bias | Checks resistance stability under sustained heat |
| Temperature Cycling (TC) | –55°C to +125°C, 1000 cycles | Solder joint and package integrity under thermal stress |
| Highly Accelerated Stress Test (HAST) | 130°C / 85% RH, 96 hours, biased | Moisture ingress and electrochemical corrosion |
| Autoclave / Pressure Cooker (PCT) | 121°C / 100% RH, 96 hours, unbiased | Accelerated moisture penetration test |
| Resistance to Solder Heat (RSH) | 260°C, 10 s | Survives reflow soldering |
| Board Flex (BF) | 2 mm deflection, 3 cycles | Solder joint integrity under PCB bending |
| Mechanical Shock | 1500 g, 0.5 ms | Mechanical robustness in assembly and field use |
| Vibration | 20 g, 10–2000 Hz | Long-term vibration endurance (automotive powertrain) |
| Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) | Per AEC-Q200-002 | Handling and assembly ESD immunity |
Failure Criteria
Each test defines a parameter shift limit. For resistors this is typically a maximum resistance change expressed as a percentage or absolute value. Components that fail to remain within specification after any test fail qualification.
3. Reading Qualification Data
Stackpole datasheets indicate AEC-Q200 qualification at the product series and package size level. Pay attention to the following when reviewing:
Qualification is Package-Specific
Within a single series, some package sizes may be fully qualified while others are not. For example, the CSM series is AEC-Q200 qualified in the 2512 package but not in 0603. Always check the specific size you intend to use.
Qualification Date and Revision
AEC-Q200 Rev E is the current revision. Earlier datasheets may reference Rev C or D qualification. While these are generally equivalent for common tests, confirm with your Stackpole contact if Rev E compliance is a contractual requirement.
Partial Qualification
Some series carry "partial" AEC-Q200 status — meaning they have passed the stress tests but may not have completed the full qualification matrix for all package sizes or value subranges. Contact us for a detailed qualification status table if required.
4. Stackpole AEC-Q200 Qualified Series
CSS — Current Sense
Metal alloy, 0201–4527. Full AEC-Q200 across all sizes. 15 ppm TCR.
CSSH — High Power Current Sense
Metal alloy, 0805–3637. Full AEC-Q200. Up to 7 W.
CSSK — Kelvin Current Sense
4-terminal metal alloy, 0612/3637. Full AEC-Q200.
HCS — High Current Shunt
Metal alloy, 1206–5930. Full AEC-Q200. Up to 10 W.
RNCS — Precision Thin Film
Moisture-resistant, 0402–2512. Full AEC-Q200. 15–50 ppm TCR.
RMCF — Thick Film Chip
General purpose, 01005–2512. Full AEC-Q200.
RVCA — High Voltage Thick Film
Up to 100 MΩ, 0402–2512. Full AEC-Q200.
CML — MLCC Capacitors
C0G/X5R/X7R, 0402–1812. AEC-Q200 status varies by dielectric — see datasheet.
5. PPAP and Additional Documentation
For IATF 16949-certified supply chains, Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) documentation may be required in addition to AEC-Q200 qualification. Stackpole can provide:
- Design FMEA (DFMEA)
- Process Flow Diagram
- Control Plan
- MSA (Gauge R&R) data
- Initial Process Studies (Cpk data)
- Dimensional Results
- Material / Performance Test Results (including AEC-Q200 qualification report)
- Part Submission Warrant (PSW)