Decode ceramic and SMD capacitor numeric codes instantly. Convert 3-digit markings to capacitance values in pF, nF, and µF. Includes tolerance codes and reference tables.
3-digit codes: first two digits are significant figures, third digit is the multiplier (power of 10). Result is always in picoFarads (pF). Example: 104 = 10 × 10⁴ = 100,000 pF = 100 nF.
2-digit codes (values under 10 pF): the number is the value directly in pF. Example: 22 = 22 pF.
Some capacitors include a letter after the code for tolerance: B = ±0.1 pF, C = ±0.25 pF, D = ±0.5 pF, F = ±1%, G = ±2%, J = ±5%, K = ±10%, M = ±20%, Z = +80%/-20%.
| Code | Value |
|---|---|
| 101 | 100 pF |
| 102 | 1 nF |
| 103 | 10 nF |
| 104 | 100 nF (0.1 µF) |
| 105 | 1 µF |
| 106 | 10 µF |
| 221 | 220 pF |
| 222 | 2.2 nF |
| 223 | 22 nF |
| 224 | 220 nF |
| 225 | 2.2 µF |
| 471 | 470 pF |
| 472 | 4.7 nF |
| 473 | 47 nF |
| 474 | 470 nF |
| 475 | 4.7 µF |
This free online calculator instantly decodes ceramic and SMD (Surface-Mount Device) capacitor numeric markings into real capacitance values. Whether you are working with through-hole ceramic discs or tiny SMD components, understanding capacitor codes is essential for electronics repair, prototyping, and circuit design. Simply enter the code printed on the capacitor (e.g., 104, 473, 22) and get the value in picofarads (pF), nanofarads (nF), and microfarads (µF) along with tolerance information. All calculations happen entirely in your browser — no data is sent to any server.
Ceramic capacitors use a numeric code system where the first two digits are the significant figures and the third digit is the multiplier (power of 10). The result is always in picofarads (pF). For example, code 104 means 10 × 10⁴ = 100,000 pF = 100 nF = 0.1 µF. Two-digit codes (e.g., 22) represent the value directly in pF.
The tolerance letter indicates how much the actual capacitance can vary from the marked value. Common codes: B = ±0.1 pF, C = ±0.25 pF, D = ±0.5 pF, F = ±1%, G = ±2%, J = ±5%, K = ±10%, M = ±20%, Z = +80%/-20%. For example, 104K means 100 nF with ±10% tolerance.
Code 104 is the most common ceramic capacitor marking. It means 10 × 10⁴ = 100,000 pF, which equals 100 nF or 0.1 µF. This is the standard decoupling capacitor value used across most digital circuits.
Yes, this calculator works for both through-hole ceramic disc capacitors and SMD (surface-mount) ceramic capacitors, as they use the same numeric coding system. Simply enter the code printed on the component.
These are units of capacitance. pF (picofarad) = 10⁻¹² F, nF (nanofarad) = 10⁻⁹ F, µF (microfarad) = 10⁻⁶ F. The calculator shows all three units so you can use whichever matches your circuit design requirements or component supplier catalog.
Some ceramic capacitors, especially very small SMD types, may have no marking due to size constraints. In these cases, you need to measure the capacitance with a multimeter or LCR meter, or identify the component from the PCB silkscreen or schematic.
No, electrolytic capacitors usually print the value directly (e.g., "10µF 25V") rather than using a numeric code. This calculator is designed specifically for ceramic and film capacitors that use the 2–3 digit code system.