Series and Parallel Capacitor Calculator: Calculate Total Capacitance Instantly
Calculator
Use Kobee's Parallel and Series Capacitor Calculator to find the total equivalent resistance of a series or parallel resistance circuit.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select whether you want to calculate series or parallel resistance
- Add up to 10 resistors using the Add Resistor Button
- Enter the values of your resistors in the input fields (use standard units: Ω, kΩ, or MΩ)
- Use the "Reset" button to clear all fields and start a new calculation
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Tips for Working with Capacitors
- Always check the voltage rating of your capacitors to ensure they match or exceed circuit requirements.
- Be aware of capacitor tolerances, which can affect performance in precision circuits.
- Electrolytic capacitors have polarity—reversing connections can cause damage or even explosions.
- For high-frequency applications, use ceramic or film capacitors to minimize losses.
Understanding Series and Parallel Capacitance
When designing circuits, you may need to combine multiple capacitors. The way capacitors are connected affects the total capacitance.
Series Capacitance
When capacitors are connected in series (end-to-end), the total capacitance decreases:
$$\frac{1}{C_{TOTAL}} = \frac{1}{C_1} + \frac{1}{C_2} + \frac{1}{C_3} + ... + \frac{1}{C_N}$$
Series capacitors are commonly used to:
- Increase voltage handling capacity
- Fine-tune capacitance in tuning circuits
- Block DC while allowing AC signals to pass
Parallel Capacitance
When capacitors are connected in parallel (side-by-side), the total capacitance adds up:
$$C_{TOTAL} = C_1 + C_2 + C_3 + ... + C_N$$
Parallel capacitors are useful for:
- Increasing total capacitance
- Providing energy storage in power supplies
- Reducing ripple in voltage regulation
Common Capacitor Types
Different capacitor types serve various functions in electronics. Here’s a quick reference:
Capacitor Type Reference
- ⚡ Ceramic: Low loss, high-frequency use
- 🔋 Electrolytic: High capacitance, polarized
- 🎛️ Film: Stable, used in precision applications
- 🔍 Tantalum: Compact, high reliability
- 📡 Supercapacitors: Energy storage, high capacity
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