Capacitor brand marking method

What is a capacitor marking?

A capacitor marking is a code, which indicates the value of the component. It usually consists of three numbers, which indicates the value, and a letter, which indicates the tolerance. Tables usually provide a means to decode the numbers; however, there are also calculators available as well.

What are the different types of capacitor markings & codes?

The various parameters of the capacitors such as their voltage and tolerance along with their values is represented by different types of markings and codes. Some of these markings and codes include capacitor polarity marking; capacity colour code; and ceramic capacitor code respectively.

How do you mark a capacitor?

Numerical Markings One of the most common formats for capacitor markings is the numerical code. This is typically a series of three or four digits, which represent the capacitance value and sometimes the tolerance. Three-digit code: The first two digits represent the significant figures, and the third digit indicates the number of zeros to add.

Why are capacitors marked with a code?

Capacitors are often marked with codes to show the value, tolerance and material. This is particularly true for small types such as ceramic disc or polystyrene where there is little space for full markings. The capacitance value is often marked using a 3 digit code.

How to identify a capacitor?

Thus, for such concise markings many different types of schemes or solutions are adopted. The value of the capacitor is indicated in “Picofarads”. Some of the marking figures which can be observed are 10n which denotes that the capacitor is of 10nF. In a similar way, 0.51nF is indicated by the marking n51.

How do you mark a capacitor on a PCB?

Markings on the PCB: Positive Marking: Often represented by a “+” symbol, indicating where the positive terminal of the capacitor should be placed. Negative Marking: Typically denoted with a “-“ symbol or sometimes a black stripe. The negative terminal of the capacitor should align with this marking.