Capacitor Code Calculator
Decode common three-digit ceramic capacitor markings into capacitance values in picofarads, nanofarads, and microfarads.
The calculator also recognizes optional F, G, J, K, M, and Z tolerance letters and normalizes lowercase input automatically.
Engineering tool
Capacitor Code Calculator
Decode a three-digit ceramic capacitor code and optional tolerance letter into pF, nF, and µF values.
Example codes
Decoded capacitance
100 nF
Tolerance not specified in the code
Result console
- Capacitance
- 100,000 pF
- Equivalent value (nF)
- 100 nF
- Equivalent value (µF)
- 0.1 µF
- Tolerance
- Not specified
- Raw code
- 104
- Engineering format
- 100 nF
Support reference
FAQ
How do I read a three-digit capacitor code?
The first two digits are significant figures and the third digit is the number of zeros in picofarads. For example, 104 means 10 followed by four zeros, or 100,000 pF.
What does 104 mean on a capacitor?
A 104 capacitor code represents 100,000 pF, which is the same as 100 nF or 0.1 µF.
What unit are capacitor codes based on?
Standard three-digit ceramic capacitor markings are normally decoded in picofarads before converting to nF or µF.
What do capacitor tolerance letters mean?
Tolerance letters indicate the allowed capacitance variation. Common examples include J for ±5%, K for ±10%, and M for ±20%.
Can lowercase capacitor codes be decoded?
Yes. This calculator normalizes lowercase input, so codes such as 104k and 104K are interpreted consistently.
Why do datasheets use different capacitance units?
Datasheets may show the same value in pF, nF, or µF depending on component family and readability. The numeric value is equivalent after SI prefix conversion.