1. What is an SMD Capacitor Code Calculator?

Definition: This calculator decodes the numerical marking on surface-mount ceramic capacitors to determine their capacitance value.

Purpose: It helps electronics engineers, technicians, and hobbyists quickly identify capacitor values for circuit design and repair.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( C \) — Capacitance in picofarads (pF)
• \( digit1 \) — First digit of the code (0-9)
• \( digit2 \) — Second digit of the code (0-9)
• \( multiplier \) — Power of ten exponent (0-9)

Explanation: The first two digits form the significant figures, and the third digit represents the number of zeros to add.

3. Importance of SMD Capacitor Codes

Details: Understanding these codes is essential for working with modern electronics where component sizes are too small for full value markings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the three-digit code from your capacitor. The first two digits are the significant figures, and the third is the multiplier exponent.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does "101" on a capacitor mean?
A: 101 means 10 × 10¹ = 100 pF (digits 1 and 0, multiplier 1).

Q2: How do I read a two-digit code?
A: Two-digit codes typically represent the value directly in pF (e.g., "47" = 47 pF).

Q3: What about codes with letters?
A: Letters may indicate voltage rating or tolerance - this calculator handles only numerical codes.

Q4: What's the largest value this can calculate?
A: 99 × 10⁹ pF (99,000 µF), though most SMD capacitors are much smaller.

Q5: How accurate are these codes?
A: The code shows nominal value; actual capacitance may vary by tolerance (typically ±10% or ±20%).