Electrolytic capacitors are capacitors where one or both of the plates are made of a non-metallic conductive material such as aluminum or titanium, which allows a higher capacitance than other conductive materials and helps lower the cost per unit. You can use electrolytic capacitors for large or small components.

When you purchase electrolytic capacitor supplies keep the construction of the electrolytic capacitor in mind.

1. Most electrolytic capacitors are actually aluminum electrolytic capacitors that use two conducting aluminum foils. One foil with a coated oxide layer acts as an anode.

2. Electrolytic capacitors often have a paper spacer soaked in electrolytes placed between the layers.

3. The liquid electrolyte works together with the second part of aluminum foil to create the cathode, extending the life of electrolytic capacitors.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Stay current with electrolytic capacitor information from certified distributors

When purchasing electrolytic capacitors, consider manufacturers with stable backgrounds and a history of innovation and dependability. Consult with them to find out the latest in electrolytic capacitor info.

I recommend: General Atomics Electronic Products offers a wide variety of capacitors to customers around the world through its distributors. It maintains an ISO 9001:2000 certification, and it came into existence over 40 years ago. Digi-Key, a worldwide supplier of film capacitors and other electronic components, offers clients easy online shopping and a large selection of product. It offers a live online chat option to help you find capacitor information.

Lower the variable capacitor price with used and surplus electrolytic capacitors

Instead of hunting through capacitors for sale, use rented or refurbished equipment, or purchase electrolytic capacitors wholesale. This not only saves on initial costs, but also gives you a chance to test the products to see what works best before making a solid purchase. Consider renting from companies who offer an option to buy, if you are satisfied with the capacitor.

I recommend: Test Equipment Connection offers refurbished electronic equipment including electrolytic capacitors. This company supplies products for customers around the world, carries thousands of products and also gives you the option of trading in or selling your used equipment. You also might want to consider Test Equipment Depot. The company prides itself on offering quality refurbished materials.

Expand your choices with a manufacturer offering a variety in electrolytic capacitor equipment

When you buy electrolytic capacitor supplies, look for a capacitor manufacturer that carries numerous designs to find the equipment which best suits your purposes. Specifically look for companies constantly expanding inventory, and ask what new products are available in the near future.

I recommend: Newark claims to have the electronic industry's broadest selection of electronics, including variable capacitors. It offers live support online. Lucas Seven, an ISO 9001:2000 certified manufacturer of capacitors, includes a product line with a variety of capacitors from electrolytic to disc to variable.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look for an electrolytic capacitor or other capacitor that stands out because of its durability. Make sure the capacitor comes from certified manufacturers who put it through rigorous testing before selling.