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A 104 capacitor is a type of ceramic capacitor with a nominal value of 100,000 pF (picofarads), or 0.1 µF (microfarads). The "104" code is a standard EIA (Electronics Industries Alliance) code used to indicate the capacitance value. Here's how it breaks down:

Understanding the "104" Code:

• 104 means the capacitor has a capacitance of 100,000 pF.
• The first two digits (10) represent the first part of the value, and the third digit (4) is the multiplier.
• The formula is: Capacitance value=First two digits×10Third digit ext{Capacitance value} = ext{First two digits} imes 10^{ ext{Third digit}} So: 10×104=100,000 pF=0.1 μF10 imes 10^4 = 100,000 ext{ pF} = 0.1 , mu F

Key Characteristics of a 104 Capacitor:

1. Capacitance Value: The 104 code indicates a capacitance of 0.1 µF or 100nF (nanofarads). This is a common value used in many electronic circuits for various applications.

2. Type: Most capacitors with the 104 code are ceramic capacitors, which are known for their small size, low cost, and reliability. Ceramic capacitors are used in a wide variety of applications, including signal coupling, decoupling, filtering, and timing.

3. Voltage Rating: The voltage rating of a capacitor indicates the maximum voltage the capacitor can withstand. For ceramic capacitors, typical voltage ratings can be 50V, 100V, 250V, or higher. You should always choose a capacitor with a voltage rating higher than the maximum voltage in your circuit to prevent damage.

4. Tolerance: Ceramic capacitors like the 104 are usually available in different tolerance classes. The tolerance indicates how much the actual capacitance can vary from the nominal value. For example, a ±10% tolerance means the capacitance could range from 90,000 pF to 110,000 pF for a 104 capacitor.

5. Temperature Coefficient: Ceramic capacitors also have a temperature coefficient that indicates how the capacitance changes with temperature. For example, a Class II or Class III temperature coefficient means the capacitance can vary significantly with temperature, while Class I capacitors are more stable.

Common Uses of a 104 Capacitor:

1. Decoupling/Bypass Capacitor:

   • The 104 capacitor is commonly used in bypass or decoupling applications. These capacitors smooth out voltage fluctuations and noise in power supplies, ensuring stable voltage levels for sensitive components like ICs (Integrated Circuits).

2. Filtering:

   • It can be used in filter circuits to smooth power signals or remove high-frequency noise in audio and RF circuits.

3. Coupling:

   • In signal coupling, a 104 ceramic capacitor can be used to block DC components and allow AC signals to pass from one part of a circuit to another, such as in audio or RF circuits.

4. Timing Circuits:

   • Due to its capacitance value, a 104 capacitor is commonly used in RC (resistor-capacitor) timing circuits where it helps determine the frequency or time constant.

5. Oscillators:

   • It is also used in oscillator circuits where precise timing or frequency generation is needed.

Example of Use in an Arduino Circuit:

In a simple Arduino circuit, a 104 capacitor might be used for:

• Decoupling: Placing it across the VCC and GND pins of an Arduino or other microcontroller to stabilize the power supply and reduce noise.
• Filtering: Used in an analog signal filter to smooth out noise or to filter high-frequency components from a signal.

Summary:

A 104 ceramic capacitor is a small, reliable, and widely used capacitor with a capacitance of 0.1 µF (100nF). It is typically used in power supply decoupling, filtering, timing circuits, and signal coupling applications. When selecting a capacitor, it's important to consider the voltage rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient for the specific needs of your circuit.