This article will show how to convert capacitance measurement units from millifarads (mF) to microfarads (µF). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Farad, Millifarad, and Microfarad
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions of Farad (F), Millifarad (mF), and Microfarad (µF). Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
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 one million microfarads (1,000,000 µF).
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). It is commonly used in audio circuits, power filtering, and general-purpose electronics where moderate capacitance values are needed.
What is a Microfarad (µF)?
A microfarad (µF) is a unit of electrical capacitance in the SI system equal to one millionth (1/1,000,000) of a farad (0.000001 F). It is widely used in electronics, especially for capacitors in audio circuits, filters, and timing applications.
mF to µF 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) corresponds to a multiplier of 10-3 (0.001) while the micro- prefix represents 10-6 (0.000001).
To convert millifarads (mF) to microfarads (µF), multiply the capacitance value in millifarads by 1,000, since 1 millifarad equals 1,000 microfarads.
C(µF) = C(mF) × 1,000
Or remember the mF-to-µF conversion factor: 1 mF = 1,000 µF
mF to µF conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting electrical capacitance measurement units from millifarads (mF) to microfarads (µF). It covers commonly available capacitor values, allowing for easy and quick conversions between these units of measurement.
| Millifarads (mF) | Microfarads (µF) |
|---|---|
| 0.1 mF | 100 µF |
| 0.22 mF | 220 µF |
| 0.47 mF | 470 µF |
| 1 mF | 1,000 µF |
| 1.1 mF | 1,100 µF |
| 1.2 mF | 1,200 µF |
| 1.3 mF | 1,300 µF |
| 1.5 mF | 1,500 µF |
| 1.6 mF | 1,600 µF |
| 1.8 mF | 1,800 µF |
| 2 mF | 2,000 µF |
| 2.2 mF | 2,200 µF |
| 2.4 mF | 2,400 µF |
| 2.7 mF | 2,700 µF |
| 3 mF | 3,000 µF |
| 3.3 mF | 3,300 µF |
| 3.6 mF | 3,600 µF |
| 3.9 mF | 3,900 µF |
| 4.3 mF | 4,300 µF |
| 4.7 mF | 4,700 µF |
| 5.1 mF | 5,100 µF |
| 5.6 mF | 5,600 µF |
| 6.2 mF | 6,200 µF |
| 6.8 mF | 6,800 µF |
| 7.5 mF | 7,500 µF |
| 8.2 mF | 8,200 µF |
| 9.1 mF | 9,100 µF |
Examples
Now, let's look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from millifarads to microfarads (mF to µF).
Example: Capacitor in Power Supply Filtering
You’re designing a DC power supply and selecting a capacitor for output filtering. The datasheet recommends a capacitor rated at 4.7 millifarads (mF). However, your simulation software and component library use microfarads (µF), so you need to convert the value.
Solution
Since 1 millifarad (mF) = 103 = 1,000 microfarads (µF), we can convert 4.7 mF to microfarads by using the following formula:
Therefore, the 4.7 mF electrical capacitance is equivalent to 4,700 µF.
To solve the problem with our calculator, follow the steps below:
- Enter the value in millifarads: For this example, enter
4.7into theFrombox. - View the result: The converter instantly calculates and displays the equivalent value in microfarads:
4,700 µF.
FAQs
Is a millifarad or a microfarad larger?
A millifarad (mF) is a thousand times bigger than a microfarad (µF). Here are the relationships between the units:
1 mF = 103 = 1,000 µF1 µF = 10-3 = 1 ÷ 1,000 = 0.001 mF
How to convert from millifarads to microfarads?
To convert electrical capacitance from millifarads (mF) to microfarads (µF), follow these simple steps:
- Write down the capacitance value in millifarads (mF).
- Mulitply it by 1,000.
- The result is the capacitance in microfarads (µF).
Why do I need to convert millifarads to microfarads?
Datasheets, simulation tools, and component catalogs 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 microfarads (µF). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between the electrical capacitance measurement units to save time for future calculations.
