Capacitor Marking

A capacitor marking is a code, which indicates the value of the component. It usually consists of three numbers, which indicates the value, and a letter, which indicates the tolerance. Tables usually provide a means to decode the numbers; however, there are also calculators available as well. It is easy to decode because the first two numerals indicate the value and the third numeral indicates the number of trailing zeros to append, known as the multiplier. Then finally, append the unit pF. So for example, code 101 means 100 pF.

Table - Decoder

Sometimes a manufacturer will not adhere to the EIA coding system, and mark the values directly on the capacitor. Here are some examples of such marking.

• 0.001K is a 0.001 uF capacitor with a ±10 % tolerance.
• 0.01Z is a 0.01 uF capacitor with a +80 % and -20 % tolerance.

Example Markings and Values

For beginners, some values might prove confusing. Values with the letter capital K represents ±10 % tolerance. My article on Ceramic Disc Capacitor Values might help with the tolerance letters. Here are some example markings.

• 103K is a 10 nF capacitor with a 10 % tolerance.
• 222K is a 2.2 nF capacitor with a 10 % tolerance.
• 823K is 82 nF 10 % tolerance.
• 682K is 6.8 nF 10 % tolerance.