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100uF 16V Electrolytic Capacitor Specs, Ratings & Applications | Communica

Overview: What Is a 100uF 16V Capacitor?

A 100 microfarad (uF) 16 volt radial capacitor is a widely used electrolytic capacitor ideal for power supply smoothing, decoupling, and timing applications in both hobbyist and industrial electronics. "100uF" indicates the storage capacity, while "16V" is the maximum continuous working voltage. The radial lead style is common for PCB mounting in South African projects ranging from Arduino circuits to power modules and audio filtering.

Note: Capacitor shortages have affected global supply. At Communica, you can check real-time stock or arrange a branch pickup for popular brands like Rubycon, Nichicon, and Samwha.

Key Specifications Table

Parameter	Typical Value / Range	Notes
Capacitance	100uF (±20%)	Electrolytic; measured at 120Hz @20 degreesC
Rated Voltage	16V DC	Do not exceed; allow margin for spikes
Polarity	Polarized	Reverse voltage will damage part
Lead Type	Radial	Leads on same end for PCB insertion
Temperature Range	-40 degreesC to +85 degreesC (typical)	Check datasheet for extended types
Ripple Current	60-120mA RMS @ 120Hz	Varies by brand/series
ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance)	0.15-0.5 Ohm (typical)	Lower ESR=better in SMPS decoupling

Common Applications in SA Builds

Power supply smoothing for Arduino/Pi, PLCs, and consumer electronics
Bypass/decoupling capacitors in microcontroller circuits and audio stages
Low-frequency filtering in LED drivers and timing circuits
Bulk storage or energy reservoir for breadboarding and learning kits (universities, FET colleges, robotics clubs)
Repair and replacement in common devices (radios, sound equipment, gate/garage PCBs)

Popular Brands and Local Stock

Communica stocks respected brands such as Rubycon, Nichicon, Panasonic, Samwha, and local alternatives, covering both standard and low-ESR/high-ripple types. Stock levels and case dimensions (diameter, height, pitch) may vary-always check branch/online listings for real-time availability and lead time. VAT invoices are provided and branch collection is available in Centurion, Pretoria CBD, and Cape Town.

Standards and Ratings Explained

Datasheets specify working voltage (16V max DC), tolerance (typically +20% to -20%), leakage current, ripple current, and operating temperature. For educational and industrial use in South Africa, observe these key points:

Never apply more than 80% of the rated voltage for long-term reliability (use a 16V cap on 12V rails, for example).
Temperature ratings affect both lifespan and ripple handling-derate accordingly for hot enclosures or summer ambient conditions.
Physical size (height x diameter and lead pitch) should match your PCB layout; case sizes for 100uF 16V parts typically range from 6.3x11mm to 8x12mm.

Selecting the Right 100uF 16V Capacitor

When choosing a 100uF 16V capacitor for your project, consider the following:

Voltage Margin: The circuit should run at least 20% below rated voltage (e.g., 12V circuit, 16V cap).
Ripple Current: For switching power supplies, choose capacitors with higher ripple ratings (80mA+ for continuous duty).
Temperature Range: For outdoor or hot environments, prefer -40° to +105°C rated capacitors.
Brand & Quality: Reputable brands mean better lifespan and consistency. Cheaper generics may fail prematurely.
Physical Fit: Verify diameter, lead spacing, and height for your PCB or enclosure.

Example Calculation: If a microcontroller circuit draws 100mA at 12V and requires supply ripple <1V, a 100uF 16V cap can provide sufficient filtering. For higher current or noisier applications, use multiple caps in parallel or increase capacitance to 220uF/16V.

ESR and Ripple: Practical Guidance

Low-ESR types are recommended for switching power supplies (buck/boost regulators, DC-DC modules) for reduced heat and longer life. For analog audio, standard ESR is usually suitable. Always cross-check ESR spec with your design requirements, especially if replacing an original part in equipment.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Capacitor failure soon after installation: Likely cause is over-voltage, reversed polarity, or inadequate ripple rating. Check circuit and capacitor markings.
Physical fitment problem: Use a caliper to verify diameter and lead spacing before ordering replacements.
Hum/noise not resolved: Consider increasing capacitance (e.g., parallel multiple 100uF caps), or use low-ESR versions.

South African Buying Tips

Order ahead for larger projects; high-demand specs can face lead times of 7-21 days if backordered.
Use local branches for urgent prototyping or repairs-see Communica branch hours.
Browse and compare capacitor categories for sizes, brands, and spec sheets.
Students: academic projects often call for VAT invoices; Communica provides standard invoicing to support education procurement.

Conclusion

100uF 16V radial capacitors are a workhorse component in South African electronics, valued for affordability and versatility. With careful attention to voltage, ripple, and physical size, you can ensure reliable operation across hobby, teaching, and industry applications. Always check local stock, and reference datasheets from trusted brands before final selection.

100uF 16V Radial Capacitor Specifications and Ratings: South African Engineer's Guide

Essential Specifications

Popular Local Uses

Selection & Troubleshooting

Communica South Africa

Overview: What Is a 100uF 16V Capacitor?

Key Specifications Table

Common Applications in SA Builds

Popular Brands and Local Stock

Standards and Ratings Explained

Selecting the Right 100uF 16V Capacitor

ESR and Ripple: Practical Guidance

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

South African Buying Tips

Conclusion

Sources

DEC cc

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