What is a capacitance conversion calculator?
Capacitor values in real designs are expressed using many different units: farads (F), millifarads (mF), microfarads (µF), nanofarads (nF) and picofarads (pF). A capacitance conversion calculator helps you translate any value into the unit you prefer, without manual math or unit confusion.
This is especially helpful when you:
- Compare datasheets from different vendors
- Cross-reference parts in µF, nF and pF
- Review older schematics that use different notation
- Enter values into simulation tools or calculator-based design workflows
Common capacitance units and prefixes
Capacitance is measured in farads (F), but real-world capacitors are almost always much smaller. SI prefixes make it easier to express these smaller values:
| Unit | Prefix | Multiplier | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| F | farad | 1 | 1 F = 1 F |
| mF | millifarad | 10-3 | 1 mF = 0.001 F |
| µF | microfarad | 10-6 | 1 µF = 0.000001 F |
| nF | nanofarad | 10-9 | 1 nF = 0.000000001 F |
| pF | picofarad | 10-12 | 1 pF = 0.000000000001 F |
Quick reference examples
Some of the most common conversions you will see in schematics and datasheets:
| Value | Equivalent | Typical usage |
|---|---|---|
| 0.1 µF | 100 nF = 100,000 pF | Decoupling / bypass capacitors near ICs |
| 1.0 µF | 1000 nF = 1,000,000 pF | Bulk decoupling, RC filters, timing |
| 10 nF | 0.01 µF = 10,000 pF | Signal coupling, small RC filters |
| 100 pF | 0.1 nF = 0.0001 µF | High-frequency tuning, RF matching |
How to use this capacitance conversion calculator
- Enter the known value: Type your capacitance value in the numeric field and select its current unit (F, mF, µF, nF or pF).
- Select the target unit: Choose the unit you want to convert to. The calculator will instantly show the converted value.
- Review related units: Many engineers like to see several units at once. If available, the calculator can show the same value simultaneously in µF, nF and pF.
- Copy the result into your design: Use the converted value in your schematic editor, SPICE model, or purchasing list.
Design tips when working with capacitor values
- Watch for unit mix-ups: Confusing 100 nF with 100 µF or 100 pF can change your circuit behavior by a factor of 1000 or more.
- Use preferred value series: Real capacitors follow common series such as E6, E12 and E24. Round converted values to the nearest standard value that is actually available.
- Consider voltage rating and dielectric: Numerical capacitance is only part of the story; dielectric type, voltage rating and ESR all impact performance.
- Keep notation consistent: In mixed teams, agree whether to express typical decoupling capacitors as “100 nF” or “0.1 µF” to avoid mistakes.
This calculator makes it easy to move between farads, microfarads, nanofarads and picofarads, helping you read schematics correctly, avoid errors in BOMs, and keep your analog and power designs consistent across tools and suppliers.
