The code used is actually the same as that used with resistors as it utilises the EIA scheme: Tolerance codes: Some capacitors have a tolerance code.This type of capacitor marking is used less these days but may be seen on some older capacitors. Colour code: Some older capacitors use a form of colour code.This scheme is widely used with surface mount capacitors where space is very limited. Multiplier used on EIA Capacitor Marking Codeįor small values the letter R is used to denote a decimal point, e.g. The value of the capacitor is denoted in picofarads for ceramic, film, and tantalum capacitors, but for aluminium electrolytic capacitors the value is denoted in microfarads. The first two figures refer to the significant figures of the capacitor value, and the third one acts as a multiplier. It bears many similarities to the numeric code system adopted for some surface mount resistors. This capacitor marking code uses three characters. Abbreviated capacitor marking codes: Smaller capacitors may only have room for a few figures printed as a code for the value.This method works best on larger capacitors where there is sufficient space for the markings. Non-coded markings: The most obvious way of marking a capacitor parameters are to directly mark them onto the case or encapsulation in some way.Some of the basic coding schemes for the different parameters are included below: Note: that on some occasions the abbreviation MFD is used to denote ♟ and not a MegaFarad. There are a number of basic marking systems that are used and different capacitor types and different manufacturers use these as needed and best fits the particular product. Different types of capacitors have different marking codes and schemes Capacitor marking codes: the basicsĬapacitors are marked in many different ways. Some of the marking systems have been standardised by the EIA - the Electronic Industry Alliance, and these provide commonality across the industry. Size also plays a major part in determining how the capacitor is marked – small components must use abbreviated coding systems, whereas larger capacitors such as aluminium electrolytic varieties may write the relevant parameters on the case in full. The capacitor marking codes vary in their format according to whether the component is a surface mount device or whether it is leaded device, as well as the capacitor dielectric. These capacitor colour codes are less common than in previous years, but some may still be seen. Today most capacitors are marked with alphanumeric codes but older capacitors may be seen that have colour codes. These markings and codes indicate various properties for the capacitors and it is essential to understand them in order to select the required type.
MYLAR CAPACITOR CODE CHART HOW TO
Capacitor Codes & Markings Capacitors have a large number of markings and codes that indicate their value, tolerance and other essential parameters.Ĭapacitor uses Capacitor types Electrolytic capacitor Ceramic capacitor Tantalum capacitor Film capacitors Silver mica capacitor Super capacitor SMD capacitor Specifications & parameters How to buy capacitors - hints & tips Capacitor codes & markings Conversion tableĬapacitors have a variety of marking codes on them.