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Capacitor
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Also called: cap
Plain-language definition
Plain-language definition
An electronic component that temporarily stores electrical energy.
Why it matters
Failed capacitors can cause unstable power, noise, startup failure, or heat on a circuit board.
Technical detail
A capacitor stores charge between conductive plates separated by a dielectric and is used for filtering, timing, coupling, and power stabilization.
Examples
- A shorted power-rail capacitor can keep a laptop from turning on.
Related terms
Sources and review
Reviewed July 12, 2026 by [email protected]. Next review due July 11, 2027.
- Soldering Glossary of Terms — iFixit Accessed 7/11/2026
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