Capacitor Calculator
Series and parallel, which are the reverse of resistors.
Series and parallel, which are the reverse of resistors. Capacitors are the reverse of resistors: they add in parallel and combine reciprocally in series.
Optional.
Optional.
In series (µF)
50
In parallel, 200 µF
Capacitors are the reverse of resistors: they add in parallel and combine reciprocally in series. Parallel capacitors are effectively one larger plate area, so the capacitance adds. In series the plates fight each other and the total falls below the smallest member.
How the Capacitor Calculator works
Capacitors are the reverse of resistors: they add in parallel and combine reciprocally in series. Parallel capacitors amount to one larger plate area, so the capacitance adds. In series the total falls below the smallest member.
Also known as: capacitors in series · capacitors in parallel · total capacitance calculator · capacitance formula
Where to go next
The Capacitor question rarely arrives on its own. These are the ones that usually come with it:
- Resistor Calculator — Series and parallel totals for up to four resistors.
- RC Time Constant Calculator — τ = RC, with the charging percentages and the filter cutoff.
- Inductance Calculator — Reactance at frequency, and where L and C cancel.
- Speed Distance Time Calculator — Any one of the three from the other two, in four units.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate capacitors in parallel?
Add them. Two 100 µF capacitors in parallel make 200 µF.
How do I calculate capacitors in series?
Add the reciprocals and invert, the same formula resistors use for parallel. Two 100 µF in series give 50 µF.
Why are capacitors backwards from resistors?
Because capacitance depends on plate area. Wiring them in parallel effectively enlarges the plates, so the values add; wiring them in series stacks the gaps, which reduces the total.
Why put capacitors in series at all?
To raise the voltage rating. Two capacitors in series each take half the applied voltage, at the cost of halving the capacitance.
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Related calculators
Resistor Calculator
Series and parallel totals for up to four resistors.
OpenRC Time Constant Calculator
τ = RC, with the charging percentages and the filter cutoff.
OpenInductance Calculator
Reactance at frequency, and where L and C cancel.
OpenSpeed Distance Time Calculator
Any one of the three from the other two, in four units.
Open