0603

0603 is a standard surface-mount package size used for many passive electronic components, most commonly resistors and capacitors. The designation refers to approximately 0.060 inches in length by 0.030 inches in width, which is about 1.6 mm by 0.8 mm in metric terms. The height of parts in this family varies by material and construction but is typically around 0.8 to 1.0 mm. Footprints and tolerances are defined by IPC/JESD standards, and many manufacturers also provide metric equivalents such as 1608.

The 0603 size is popular because it offers a balance between compact footprint and ease of automated handling. It is well supported by pick-and-place equipment and reflow soldering processes used in mass production. The footprint allows reasonable solder fillets and reliable mounting while enabling higher component density on modern PCBs compared with larger sizes.

Common applications include consumer electronics, computing peripherals, automotive and industrial equipment, and many other devices that require compact, low-profile components. In resistors, typical power ratings for 0603 parts range around 1/16 to 1/10 watt depending on the manufacturer, while capacitors in this size are available in a range of dielectric types (such as X7R, X5R) and voltage ratings, typically from a few volts up to 50 V or more for specialty parts.

Related sizes include 0402 and 0805 in imperial terms (and their metric equivalents 1005 and 2012, respectively). The 0603 size sits between these in both footprint and typical handling characteristics.