0201

0201 is a standard size code used for ultra-small surface-mount passive components, primarily chip resistors and capacitors. It denotes one of the smallest widely used SMD package sizes, enabling high-density PCB layouts in compact electronics.

Dimensions and scope: The 0201 package is nominally 0.02 inches by 0.01 inches, about 0.50 mm by 0.25 mm. Metric equivalents are close to 0.5 mm by 0.25 mm, though actual dimensions can vary slightly by manufacturer. Because of its tiny footprint, 0201 parts are typically used when space is at a premium and current or voltage requirements are modest.

Applications: 0201 components appear in mobile devices, wearables, compact IoT devices, and other high-density electronics where minimizing board area is important. They are common for low-power, low-profile applications and are often chosen to reduce overall device thickness.

Manufacturing and design considerations: The small size makes placement, soldering, and inspection more challenging than larger sizes. Production lines often require fine-pitch pick-and-place equipment, very small solder paste volumes, and precise reflow profiles. Rework and reliability testing can be more demanding, and designers may need to adjust land patterns and solder mask to minimize tombstoning and misalignment. Compared with larger sizes, 0201 parts offer lower parasitic footprint but also lower power handling and voltage ratings.

See also: related SMD size families include 0402 and 0603, and the broader IPC/EIA standard for surface-m mount device packages.