Vectronics VEC-1290K - Manual (Page 6)

VEC-1290K Instruction Manual AM Radio Transmitter Kit
and fatter at the ends than resistors. When doing your inventory, separate out
any chokes and consult the parts list for specific color-code information.
Reading Capacitors: Unlike resistors, capacitors no longer use a color code
for value identification. Instead, the value, or a 3-number code, is printed on
the body.
Value Code
10 pF = 100
Multilayer
100 pF = 101 (270 pF)
1000 pF = 102
.001 uF = 102*
.01 uF = 103
.1 uF = 104
As with resistors, it's helpful to sort capacitors by type, and then to arrange
them in ascending order of value. Small-value capacitors are characterized in
pF (or pico-Farads), while larger values are labeled in uF (or micro-Farads).
The transition from pF to uF occurs at 1000 pF (or .001 uF)*. Today, while
most monolithic multilayer and disc-ceramic capacitors are marked with a
three-number code, you may still find a .1 uF capacitor marked either "104"
or ".1". For three digit codes, the first two digits indicate a numerical value,
while the last digit indicates a multiplier (same as resistors). The value is in
pF; thus a capacitor marked "104" is 100,000 pF, or. 1 uF.
Electrolytic capacitors are always marked in uF. Electrolytics are polarized
devices and must be oriented correctly during installation. If you become
confused by markings on the case, remember the uncut negative lead is
slightly shorter than the positive lead.
Integrated Circuits: Proper IC positioning is indicated by a dot or square
marking located on one end of the device. A corresponding mark is silk-
screened on the PC board and printed on the kit's parts-placement diagram. To
identify specific IC pin numbers for testing purposes, see the diagram below.
Pin numbers always start at the keyed end of the case and progress
counterclockwise around the device, as shown: