A capacitor (also historically called a condenser or kondansatör) is a passive electronic component that stores electrical energy in a static electric field and releases it when needed. It is structured using two conductive plates separated by a dielectric (insulating) material, which enables the storage of electric charge.
What Does a Capacitor Do?
Capacitors serve many functions in electronic circuits, including energy storage, filtering, signal coupling, timing, and oscillator circuits. They are also used to stabilize voltage fluctuations and assist motor start-up circuits.
Types of Capacitors
Capacitors vary based on dielectric material, structure, and application. The most common types include:
Electrolytic capacitors: Provide high capacitance and are typically used for power supply filtering.
Ceramic capacitors: Small, cost-effective, and commonly used for signal coupling and filtering.
Film capacitors: Used for high-frequency applications and high-performance filtering.
Tantalum capacitors: Offer high stability and long lifespan for precision filtering.
Non-polarized capacitors: Designed for AC circuits and can operate in both directions.
How to Select a Capacitor
Capacitor selection depends on the application requirements. Key factors include:
Capacitance (C) value
Rated operating voltage
Tolerance
Dielectric type
Physical size
Operating frequency
Temperature and environmental conditions
How to Measure a Capacitor
Capacitance is most commonly measured using a multimeter with capacitance mode or a dedicated capacitance meter. The capacitor should always be:
Removed from the circuit
Fully discharged before measurement
What Is “Sığaç”?
Sığaç is the Turkish engineering term for capacitor. Capacitance is defined by the equation:
𝐶
=
𝑄
/
𝑉
C=Q/V
Where:
C = Capacitance (farad)
Q = Stored charge (coulomb)
V = Voltage across plates (volt)
Where Are Capacitors Used?
Capacitors are used in:
Power supplies
Motor start circuits
Audio and sound systems
Consumer electronics
Flash circuits in cameras
RAM and memory systems
RF (radio-frequency) and communication circuits
Industrial automation and embedded electronics
Capacitor Prices
Prices vary based on type and ratings:
Ceramic capacitors are typically the most affordable.
High-capacitance electrolytic and specialized film capacitors are comparatively more expensive due to higher power handling and precision requirements.
Summary
Capacitors are one of the core building blocks of modern electronic and electrical systems. Understanding their structure, operating principles, types, ratings, and measurement protocols is essential for engineers and hobby electronics developers.
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