30-second summary
Capacitor
A capacitor is a device that can store electric charge and normally consists of two conducting objects (usually plates or sheets) placed near each other but not touching.
Basically, capacitors consist of two metal plates separated by an insulator. The insulator is called a dielectric. (e.g., polystyrene, oil, or air).
Capacitors are one of the most used and useful electronic components used in any modern electronic and electrical circuit and devices.
The most common kinds of capacitors are:
- Electrolytic capacitors
- Ceramic capacitors
- Paper capacitors
- Film capacitors
- Mica capacitors
- Supercapacitors
See also: Capacitance
See also: Dielectrics
Film Capacitors
Film capacitors are a type of capacitor that use a thin film of plastic or metal as the dielectric between the capacitor plates. They are widely used in electronic circuits due to their reliability, high accuracy, and stability over time. Here are some characteristics of film capacitors:
- Wide capacitance range: Film capacitors are available in various capacitance values, typically ranging from a few picofarads to several microfarads.
- High voltage ratings: They have high voltage ratings, typically ranging from a few volts to several thousand volts.
- Low leakage: They have low leakage, meaning they do not lose their charge over time.
- High accuracy: They have high accuracy, meaning they can maintain a constant capacitance value over a wide range of temperatures and frequencies.
- Non-polarized: Most film capacitors are non-polarized, meaning they can be connected in either direction in a circuit.
- Temperature stability: They are stable over a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for use in high-temperature applications.
- Low ESR: They have low equivalent series resistance (ESR), which means that they can provide high-quality power filtering in electronic circuits.
Overall, film capacitors are a popular choice in electronic circuits due to their high accuracy, stability, and low leakage. They are commonly used in various applications, including power supplies, audio equipment, and frequency filters. Different types of film capacitors include polyester film, polypropylene film, metalized film, and polycarbonate film capacitors, each with their own unique characteristics and applications.
