This article will show how to convert capacitance measurement units from millifarads (mF) to farads (F). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Millifarad and Farad
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions of Millifarad (mF) and Farad (F). Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
What is a Millifarad (mF)?
A millifarad (mF) is a unit of electrical capacitance in the SI system equal to one thousandth (1/1,000) of a farad (0.001 F).
Millifarads are commonly used in audio circuits, power filtering, and general-purpose electronics where moderate capacitance values are needed.
What is a Farad?
A farad (1F) is the SI base unit of electrical capacitance representing the capacity to store one coulomb (1C) of electric charge when a potential difference of one volt (1V) is applied.[1]
According to SI prefixes[2], which are based on powers of 10, a farad (1 F) is equivalent to one thousand millifarads (1,000 mF or 103 mF).
Farads are typically used in high-capacity applications such as supercapacitors or energy storage systems.
mF to F formula
Let’s take a closer look at the conversion formula so you can carry out these conversions independently, whether using a calculator or doing it manually with pencil and paper.
The milli- prefix in the International System of Units (SI) represents a multiplier of 10-3 (0.001). So, to convert from millifarads to farads, divide the number of millifarads (C(mF)) by 1,000.
C(F) = C(mF) × 10-3 = C(mF) ÷ 1,000
Or remember the mF-to-F conversion factor: 1 mF = 0.001 F
mF to F conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting electrical capacitance measurement units from millifarads (mF) to farads (F). It covers commonly available capacitor values, allowing for easy and quick conversions between these units of measurement.
| Millifarads (mF) | Farads (F) |
|---|---|
| 100 mF | 0.1 F |
| 220 mF | 0.22 F |
| 470 mF | 0.47 F |
| 1,000 mF | 1 F |
| 1,100 mF | 1.1 F |
| 1,200 mF | 1.2 F |
| 1,300 mF | 1.3 F |
| 1,500 mF | 1.5 F |
| 1,600 mF | 1.6 F |
| 1,800 mF | 1.8 F |
| 2,000 mF | 2 F |
| 2,200 mF | 2.2 F |
| 2,400 mF | 2.4 F |
| 2,700 mF | 2.7 F |
| 3,000 mF | 3 F |
| 3,300 mF | 3.3 F |
| 3,600 mF | 3.6 F |
| 3,900 mF | 3.9 F |
| 4,300 mF | 4.3 F |
| 4,700 mF | 4.7 F |
| 5,100 mF | 5.1 F |
| 5,600 mF | 5.6 F |
| 6,200 mF | 6.2 F |
| 6,800 mF | 6.8 F |
| 7,500 mF | 7.5 F |
| 8,200 mF | 8.2 F |
| 9,100 mF | 9.1 F |
Examples
Now, let's look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from millifarads to farads (mF to F).
Example: Supercapacitor in IoT Power Backup
You're designing a low-power IoT sensor node that uses a supercapacitor to maintain operation during brief power interruptions. The hardware design specifies a backup capacitor rated at 680 millifarads (mF). However, your simulation software and energy budget calculations require the value in farads.
Solution
Since 1 farad (F) = 103 = 1,000 millifarads (mF), we can convert 680 mF to farads by using the following formula:
Therefore, the 680 mF electrical capacitance is equivalent to 0.68 F.
To solve the problem with our calculator, follow the steps below:
- Enter the value in millifarads: For this example, enter
680into theFrombox. - View the result: The converter instantly calculates and displays the equivalent value in farads:
0.68 F.
FAQs
Is a millifarad or a farad larger?
A farad (F) is a thousand times bigger than a millifarad (mF). Here are the relationships between the units:
1 F = 103 = 1,000 mF1 mF = 10-3 = 1 ÷ 1,000 = 0.001 F
How to convert from millifarads to farads?
To convert electrical capacitance from millifarads (mF) to farads (F), follow these simple steps:
- Write down the capacitance value in millifarads (mF).
- Divide it by 1,000.
- The result is the capacitance in farads (F).
Why do I need to convert millifarads to farads?
Datasheets and schematics may use different units depending on the application. Converting ensures consistency and avoids misinterpretation when selecting components or verifying circuit values.
You now know how to convert electrical capacitance from millifarads (mF) to farads (F). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between the electrical capacitance measurement units to save time for future calculations.
