How do I choose a good capacitor?

How do I choose a good capacitor?

The general rule is always use a capacitor with a higher working voltage than the circuit it is used in. This is of particular importance in power supply circuits with high value electrolytic capacitors. The working voltage should always exceed the peak working voltage of the circuit by a minimum of 20%.

How do you specify a capacitor?

Capacitor Characteristics

1. Nominal Capacitance, ( C )
2. Working Voltage, ( WV )
3. Tolerance, ( ±% )
4. Leakage Current.
5. Working Temperature, ( T )
6. Temperature Coefficient, ( TC )
7. Polarization.
8. Equivalent Series Resistance, ( ESR )

How are the characteristics of a capacitor determined?

Capacitor Characteristics Capacitors are often defined by their many characteristics. These characteristics ultimately determine a capacitors specific application, temperature, capacitance range, and voltage rating. The sheer number of capacitor characteristics are bewildering.

Where can I find the voltage of a capacitor?

In most cases, you can find the working voltage printed onto the side of the body of the capacitor, displaying its DC working voltage.

Is the leakage current of a capacitor an ideality?

Leakage current is another capacitor non-ideality. An ideal capacitor maintains constant voltage without current flow from an external circuit. Real capacitors require current, called leakage current, to maintain a constant voltage. Leakage current can be modeled as a resistance in parallel with the capacitor.

What should the tolerance level be for capacitors?

Common tolerance levels for capacitors sit around 5% – 10%. However, some capacitors made of plastic have been rated as low as ±1%. Due to changes in dielectric properties, fluctuations in temperature will have a direct effect on the value of the capacitance.