Capacitor Code Calculator

Decode Capacitor Markings with Ease

Ceramic and film capacitors often use a three-digit code to indicate their capacitance value. This calculator decodes that code for you, converting it into a readable capacitance value in picoFarads (pF), nanoFarads (nF), or microFarads (µF).

The Capacitor Code System Explained

The three-digit code works as follows:

• 1st Digit: The first significant digit of the capacitance value.
• 2nd Digit: The second significant digit.
• 3rd Digit (Multiplier): The power-of-10 multiplier. This tells you how many zeros to add after the first two digits. The base unit for this code is always picoFarads (pF).

How to Use the Calculator

1. Find the Code: Locate the three-digit code on the body of your capacitor.
2. Enter Code: Input the three-digit code into the calculator.
3. Decode: The tool will instantly display the capacitance value in the most appropriate unit (pF, nF, or µF).

Real-World Example

A capacitor is marked with the code 104.

• 1st Digit: 1

• 2nd Digit: 0

• 3rd Digit (Multiplier): 4 (meaning 10⁴, or 10,000)

• Calculation: The value is 10 followed by 4 zeros, which is 100,000 pF.

• Conversion: 100,000 pF is equal to 100 nF or 0.1 µF.

• The calculator will display the most common representation, 100 nF or 0.1 µF.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What if there's a letter after the code (e.g., 104J)? The letter represents the tolerance of the capacitor (e.g., J = ±5%, K = ±10%, M = ±20%). This calculator focuses only on the capacitance value.
• What are pF, nF, and µF? These are units of capacitance.
  • 1 microFarad (µF) = 1,000 nanoFarads (nF)
  • 1 nanoFarad (nF) = 1,000 picoFarads (pF)
• Does this work for all capacitors? No, this system is primarily for non-polarized capacitors like ceramic and film types. Electrolytic capacitors usually have their value printed directly on them (e.g., 47µF).