Connecting a Capacitor
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
From: port saint lucie florida
Re: Connecting a Capacitor (TRWSD90)
first what type of cap are you using?
1.A non-polarized ("non polar") capacitor is a type of capacitor that has no implicit polarity -- it can be connected either way in a circuit. Ceramic, mica and some electrolytic capacitors are non-polarized. You'll also sometimes hear people call them "bipolar" capacitors.
2.A polarized ("polar") capacitor is a type of capacitor that have implicit polarity -- it can only be connected one way in a circuit. The positive lead is shown on the schematic (and often on the capacitor) with a little "+" symbol. The negative lead is generally not shown on the schematic, but may be marked on the capacitor with a bar or "-" symbol. Polarized capacitors are generally electrolytics.
Note that you really need to pay attention to correctly hooking a polarized capacitor up (both with respect to polarity, as well as not pushing a capacitor past its rated voltage). If you "push" a polarized capacitor hard enough, it is possible to begin "electrolyzing" the moist electrolyte. Modern electrolytic capacitors usually have a pressure relief vent to prevent catastrophic failure of the aluminum can (but don't bet your eyesight on this).
hope this info helps.
1.A non-polarized ("non polar") capacitor is a type of capacitor that has no implicit polarity -- it can be connected either way in a circuit. Ceramic, mica and some electrolytic capacitors are non-polarized. You'll also sometimes hear people call them "bipolar" capacitors.
2.A polarized ("polar") capacitor is a type of capacitor that have implicit polarity -- it can only be connected one way in a circuit. The positive lead is shown on the schematic (and often on the capacitor) with a little "+" symbol. The negative lead is generally not shown on the schematic, but may be marked on the capacitor with a bar or "-" symbol. Polarized capacitors are generally electrolytics.
Note that you really need to pay attention to correctly hooking a polarized capacitor up (both with respect to polarity, as well as not pushing a capacitor past its rated voltage). If you "push" a polarized capacitor hard enough, it is possible to begin "electrolyzing" the moist electrolyte. Modern electrolytic capacitors usually have a pressure relief vent to prevent catastrophic failure of the aluminum can (but don't bet your eyesight on this).
hope this info helps.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,146
Likes: 2
From: Albuquerque NM
Re: Connecting a Capacitor (SunCr)
normally EE stuff show arrows that indicate the flow of electrons (negative to positive) so with this logic the arrow is pointing to the positive terminal!
But beware I'm an Aero Geek not a EE!
But beware I'm an Aero Geek not a EE!
Safety Car
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 3,504
Likes: 4
From: Mexico Beach FL
Re: Connecting a Capacitor (old salt)
I agree with the above posts.
The only thing I would add is some non-polarized capacitors have a marking showing the "outside foil." The outside foil is normally connected to signal or chassis ground to be used as a shield. I don''t think this is as common as it used to be.
Tom Piper
The only thing I would add is some non-polarized capacitors have a marking showing the "outside foil." The outside foil is normally connected to signal or chassis ground to be used as a shield. I don''t think this is as common as it used to be.
Tom Piper
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