10uF

10uF refers to a capacitance value of ten microfarads. The microfarad is written μF, but 'uF' is widely used in schematics and PCB silkscreens. One microfarad equals one millionth of a farad. A 10 μF capacitor stores electric energy and provides reactive impedance at AC signals or ripple suppression in DC power rails.

Capacitors come in several dielectrics. Aluminum or tantalum electrolytic 10 μF capacitors are polarized and offer high capacitance in small packages, but require correct polarity and have limited lifespan with higher leakage currents and temperature dependence. Ceramic 10 μF capacitors use ceramic dielectrics and are non-polar; they are available in class 2 dielectrics (e.g., X7R, Y5V) and larger sizes for higher voltages, with tolerance and voltage stability improving at class 1 (NP0). Film capacitors also exist for 10 μF, offering good stability but larger size at higher voltages.

Voltage rating indicates the maximum DC voltage the capacitor should not exceed; common ratings include 6.3V, 10V, 16V, 25V, 50V, and higher. Tolerance bands vary: ±10% for many electrolytics, ±20% for some ceramics. Temperature coefficient and aging affect capacity; tantalum can fail catastrophically if exposed to reverse polarity or overvoltage spikes.

Typical uses include decoupling and smoothing in power supplies, timing and filtering networks, and audio coupling in some circuits. In PCB design, a 10 μF cap may be chosen for decoupling near integrated circuits to reduce supply noise.

Safety and handling: ensure correct polarity for electrolytics; observe voltage rating and ripple current specifications; check ESR for high-frequency performance.