Series Capacitor Calculator DigiKey

Series Capacitance Formula:

\[ \frac{1}{C_{total}} = \sum \frac{1}{C} \]

Total Capacitance (farads):

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1. What is a Series Capacitor Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the total capacitance of capacitors connected in series.

Purpose: It helps electronics engineers and hobbyists calculate equivalent capacitance in series circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \frac{1}{C_{total}} = \frac{1}{C_1} + \frac{1}{C_2} + \frac{1}{C_3} + ... \]

Where:

\( C_{total} \) — Total equivalent capacitance (farads)
\( C_1, C_2, C_3 \) — Individual capacitor values (farads)

Explanation: The reciprocal of the total capacitance equals the sum of reciprocals of individual capacitances.

3. Importance of Series Capacitance Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures correct circuit behavior, voltage distribution, and component selection.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter at least two capacitor values in farads (1μF = 0.000001F). The third capacitor is optional.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does series capacitance decrease?
A: Connecting capacitors in series increases the effective plate separation, reducing total capacitance.

Q2: What's the difference between series and parallel?
A: Series decreases total capacitance while parallel increases it (C_total = C₁ + C₂ + ...).

Q3: How to convert between units?
A: 1 farad = 1,000,000μF = 1,000,000,000nF = 1,000,000,000,000pF

Q4: What if I have more than three capacitors?
A: You can chain calculations - calculate first three, then use that result with the next one.

Q5: Why is the total less than the smallest capacitor?
A: In series, the total capacitance is always less than the smallest individual capacitor.