Out of the three characters used in this marking system, the first two characters represent figures which are significant and the third character is representative of a multiplier. There is a similarity between this marking system and the resistor’s color codes system which can be observed here, except for the “color” which is used in the coding system. Thus, abbreviated markings are used in such cases wherein three characters are used to mark the code of the capacitor. The capacitors which are small in size does not provide space required for clear markings and only few figures can be accommodated in the given space in order to mark it and provide a code for their various parameters. Capacitor markings which are abbreviated: This is more feasible and suitable for capacitors of large size as it enables to provide enough space for creating the marks. Markings which are non-coded: one of the most common processes adopted to mark the parameters of a capacitor is to create a marking on the case of the capacitor or encapsulating them in some manner. The two types of general marking systems followed for marking the capacitors are: One can easily decode the markings and codes present on the capacitors if the person has a general knowledge of the marking and coding systems used for the capacitors. MFD is not used for denoting “MegaFarad” as is the general conception. The marking “♟” is denoted by an abbreviation namely “MFD” on many occasions.
The various manufacturers manufacturing specific types of capacitors follow both basic or standard marking systems depending on the type of capacitor being manufactured and what is the best fit for it. Basics of Capacitor MarkingsĪs discussed above, there are various factors and standards which are followed while marking the capacitors. The EIA (Electronic Industry Alliance) has also been playing a crucial role in providing standardized systems of marking the capacitors which can be followed as a standard in the industry. Another factor which plays a role in deciding the marking is the size of the capacitor as it impacts the space which is available for capacitor’s marking. The component deciding the coding can be surface mount, technology, traditional lead, or capacitor dielectric component. The type of component acts as a deciding factor of the types of the codes used. The markings’ format is dependent upon what type of capacitor is given. There are various different ways in which the marking is done on the capacitors. Some of these markings and codes include capacitor polarity marking capacity colour code and ceramic capacitor code respectively.
The various parameters of the capacitors such as their voltage and tolerance along with their values is represented by different types of markings and codes. By Surbhi Prakash Capacitor Codes and associated Markings