Convert Capacitance to Code
Rated Voltage
Invalid SMD code format. Provide a standard 3-digit code (e.g. 106).
Standard molded Tantalum capacitors use the letter prefix to signify rated working voltage.
RESULTS
Input Parameters Specification
Capacitance CodeThree-digit numeric representation: the first two are significant figures, followed by a base-10 multiplier.
Voltage Code LetterStandard EIA single-character prefix placed on the device body to denote the maximum DC working voltage.
Polarity BarThe vertical stripe indicates the positive (Anode) terminal on SMD Tantalum capacitors (contrasting with Aluminum electrolytic chips).
Base CalculationsCapacitor multipliers are calculated natively in Picofarads (pF, 10^-12 Farads).
Practical Operational Examples
A106 Polarized Capacitor (10 µF, 10V)
Prefix 'A' represents 10 Volts. Code '106' decodes as 10 × 10^6 pF = 10,000,000 pF (10 µF).
E475 Power Line Filter (4.7 µF, 25V)
Prefix 'E' represents 25 Volts. Code '475' decodes as 47 × 10^5 pF = 4.7 µF. Standard buck-converter output choke stabilizer.
J226 Decoupling Capacitor (22 µF, 6.3V)
Prefix 'J' represents 6.3 Volts. Code '226' decodes as 22 × 10^6 pF = 22 µF. Used in space-constrained logic rails.
H105 High-Voltage Bypass (1 µF, 50V)
Prefix 'H' represents 50 Volts. Code '105' decodes as 10 × 10^5 pF = 1.0 µF. Suited for automotive sensory interfaces.
Diagrams & Theory
Surface Mount Device (SMD) molded solid-electrolyte tantalum capacitors are preferred in low-profile electronic circuits due to their high volumetric efficiency and stable capacitance parameters over age.
Polarity Warning: On SMD molded Tantalum chip capacitors, the colored stripe identifies the positive (Anode) terminal. Connecting the component backwards under bias can result in dielectric breakdown and component failure.
Formulas & Mathematical Logic
Calculated Value: Capacitance (pF) = (Digit 1 × 10 + Digit 2) × 10^Multiplier
Farad Unit Scale: 1 µF = 1,000 nF = 1,000,000 pF
EIA Voltage Codes:
e = 2.5V | G = 4V | J = 6.3V | A = 10V | C = 16V | D = 20V | E = 25V | V = 35V | H = 50V
Step-by-Step Example
Example: Decodifying an "E106" Molded Tantalum Capacitor
Step 1: Read the voltage letter prefix: "E" maps to 25 Volts.
Step 2: Take the first two numeric digits as base values: "10".
Step 3: Identify the third digit as multiplier: "6" (representing 10^6).
Step 4: Multiply base value by multiplier: 10 × 1,000,000 = 10,000,000 pF.
Step 5: Convert units: 10,000,000 pF = 10,000 nF = 10 µF.
How to Use This Calculator
Locate the voltage letter and 3-digit numeric code printed on top of the SMD capacitor.
Adjust the interactive dropdown and input box inside the visualizer body.
The calculated values, working voltage, and alternate unit scales are computed instantly.
To find the appropriate SMD marking code for a specific target value, adjust the manual conversion inputs below.
About This Calculator
Decode electronic surface-mount parameters with high accuracy.
This utility parses standard 3-digit coding, fractional 'R' decimal indicators, and standard EIA voltage-scaling codes.
Using the proper voltage ratings and respecting polarization rules prevents noise and stabilizes transient responses across dynamic consumer device PCB boards.
EIA StandardizationSupports EIA voltage letters and standard E-series numeric coding.
Integrated VisualizerThe Tantalum-style visual model displays interactive inputs natively.
Tantalum SpecificsHighlights positive-stripe parameters to aid physical assembly safety.
Privacy FirstExecuted strictly client-side to ensure zero tracking and instant calculations.
Tip: Always allow a voltage de-rating factor of 50% for solid tantalum capacitors in switching circuit applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the stripe on an SMD tantalum capacitor represent?
The printed stripe on molded tantalum SMD capacitors represents the positive (Anode) terminal. This is opposite to aluminum electrolytic cans, where the band indicates the negative (Cathode) terminal.
2. How are values parsed if a decimal point is present?
For low values, an "R" represents a decimal point in picofarads. For example, "4R7" indicates 4.7 pF.
3. Why are many multi-layer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) completely unmarked?
Due to extremely compact dimensions and high-volume manufacture, MLCC devices rarely carry markings. An LCR meter is typically required to verify their properties.
4. What is voltage de-rating and why is it recommended for tantalum capacitors?
Tantalum capacitors are sensitive to voltage transients and current spikes. It is standard engineering practice to run them at 50% or less of their maximum rated working voltage to prevent electrical breakdown.
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