T86C156K010ESAS

Tantalum Capacitors

Tantalum capacitors are an important and widely used type of capacitor, found in virtually every electronic system. The most common type of tantalum capacitor, the type most people think of when they hear the word, is the T86C156K010ESAS. These special capacitors are used in microelectronic applications such as cellular phones and computers, and in sophisticated medical equipment.

General Overview

T86C156K010ESAS tantalum capacitors are the most commonly used tantalum capacitors. They consist of an anode, made of tantalum powder, and an oxide coating which is known as the dielectric. The cathode is generally made of either a carbon or metal plate. The two conductors are connected through the oxide coating so that current is able to flow through them when an electrical potential is applied. The capacitance of these capacitors is determined by the size of the oxide coating. The larger the oxide coating, the more capacitance is available.

Working Principle

When a voltage source is connected to the two terminals of a tantalum capacitor, charges of opposite polarity are deposited onto the anode and cathode. The dielectric between the two conductors forms a barrier, preventing the electrons from passing through. This is known as the capacitor\'s ability to store charges and creates a voltage on the capacitor. As time passes, the charges on each terminal will reach an equilibrium, and the voltage on the capacitor will drop back down to zero.

Applications

Tantalum capacitors are used in a wide variety of applications. In the consumer electronics arena, they are commonly used in portable devices such as PDAs, laptop computers, and cell phones. The T86C156K010ESAS capacitor is also used in industrial applications such as motor control, automotive control systems, and power switching. In medical equipment, they are used to supply clean and reliable power for critical equipment such as MRI machines and medical ventilators.

Advantages of Tantalum Capacitors

Tantalum capacitors offer several advantages over other types of capacitors. They are compact and lightweight, enabling them to be used in tight, cramped spaces. They are resistant to harsh temperatures, vibration and shock, and can operate over a wide range of temperatures. They are also relatively reliable and long-lasting, providing up to 10 years of dependable performance. Finally, they are relatively inexpensive, making them suitable for low-cost applications.