Capacitor Dictionary, Terms, and Definitions

"A", "B/C", "D", "E", "F", "G", "I/L", "M/N", "P", "Q/R", "S", "T", "V/Z"

Previous set of Capacitor Terms

Tantalum Electrolytic Capacitor: A capacitor that uses tantalum as a dielectric. Tantalum Capacitors are smaller and more stable than Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors, but cost more. Tantalum Capacitor Manufacturers

TC: Temperature Coefficient. The TC indicates the capacitor’s change in capacitance value over it’s operating temperature range. Common TC's; Y5P, NPO, X7R, Z5U, Y5F. Read more Dielectric Types

Temperature Compensating Capacitor: A capacitor whose capacitance varies with temperature in a known and predictable manner.

Thick Film Component: Passive circuit components (resistors and capacitors) having a thickness of 0.001 centimeter.

Thin Film Component: Passive circuit elements (resistors and capacitors) deposited on a substrate to a thickness of 0.0001 centimeter.

Time Constant: Time required for an exponential quantity to change by an amount equal to 63.2 percent of the total change that can occur.

Tolerance. The maximum permissible error or variation from the standard in a measuring instrument. A maximum electrical or mechanical variation of specifications that can be tolerated without impairing the operation of a device. Capacitor Tolerance is normally given at 25 degree C [standard room temperature]. Tolerance codes +; F= 1%, G= 2%, J= 10%, K= 20% and Z= +80% / -20%

Trimmer Capacitor: A variable capacitor, normally a small-value adjustable style. Trimmer Capacitors are classified by dielectric. Trimmer Capacitor Manufacturers.

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