This calculator converts capacitance values between pF, nF, µF, and F. The capacitance code conversion table allows you to calculate capacitance values by looking up the code. The first two digits indicate the capacitance value in picofarads and the third digit indicates the multiplier. If no multiplier is given, the result is the capacitance value in pF.
How to Use the Calculator
The calculator is designed for ease of use. Simply follow these steps to get your conversion:
Enter a Value: Input the capacitance value you want to convert into the “Enter Value” field. You can use decimals or whole numbers.
Select a Unit: Use the dropdown menu next to the input field to select the corresponding unit of your value (F, µF, nF, or pF).
View Results: The calculator will automatically display the converted values in the table below, updated in real-time as you type.
Capacitance Conversion
| Unit | Converted Value |
|---|---|
| Farads (F) | — |
| Microfarads (µF) | — |
| Nanofarads (nF) | — |
| Picofarads (pF) | — |
Capacitance is a fundamental property of an electrical circuit and a key parameter of a capacitor. The standard unit of capacitance is the Farad (F), named after the English physicist Michael Faraday. A single Farad represents a very large amount of capacitance, which is why in practical electronic applications, we almost always use smaller units, such as microfarads, nanofarads, and picofarads.
Understanding the relationships between these units is crucial for correctly selecting and using capacitors in a circuit. Capacitors are passive electronic components that store energy in an electric field. They are an essential part of most electronic circuits and can be found in everything from simple timing circuits to complex power supply filters.
The conversion between these units is based on the standard SI prefixes. Here are the relationships:
- 1 Farad (F) = $10^6$ Microfarads (µF)
- 1 Microfarad (µF) = $10^3$ Nanofarads (nF)
- 1 Nanofarad (nF) = $10^3$ Picofarads (pF)
This means that a single Farad is equal to one million microfarads, one billion nanofarads, and one trillion picofarads. Using these values can be cumbersome, and it's easy to make a mistake when dealing with so many zeros. Our calculator simplifies this process, allowing you to enter a value in any unit and instantly see its equivalent in all others.
FAQ
A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by a dielectric (insulating) material. Capacitors are used for a wide range of functions, including filtering, coupling, decoupling, and timing.
For large capacitors, the value is often printed directly on the body. For small ceramic capacitors, a three-digit code is common. The first two digits are the value in picofarads, and the third is a multiplier (e.g., 104 means 10 followed by 4 zeros, which is 100,000 pF or 100 nF).
The main difference is their dielectric material and polarization. Electrolytic capacitors have a much larger capacitance value and are polarized (must be connected in a specific direction), making them ideal for power supply filtering. Ceramic capacitors are non-polarized, have a smaller value, and are often used for high-frequency decoupling and timing applications.