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What is the Capacitor Symbol on a Multimeter?
30 October 2025
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A capacitor is an important part in many electronic devices. It helps to store and release electrical energy. To check if a capacitor works properly, you can use a tool called a multimeter.
However, to test a capacitor, you need to know what its symbol looks like on the multimeter. In this guide, we will explain what a capacitor is. In addition, you will learn how to find its symbol on a multimeter and how to use the capacitor setting to test it correctly.
What is a Capacitor?
A capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It has two metal plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric.
When connected to a power source, one plate collects positive charge and the other collects negative charge. Once the power is removed, the capacitor can release the stored energy when needed.
Capacitors are used in many devices to smooth voltage, filter signals, and store energy for short periods. They are widely used in circuits for DC isolation, AC coupling, bypassing, filtering, tuning circuits, energy conversion, control, and other fields.
What is a Multimeter?
A multimeter is a useful tool for measuring electrical values like voltage, current, and resistance. It helps users find and fix problems in circuits or devices.
People use multimeters in many situations, such as testing batteries, checking power outlets, or working on electronic projects.
The main parts of a multimeter include a display screen, a dial for selecting the type of measurement, and two probes—one red and one black.
Some digital multimeters also measure capacitance and test continuity. Generally, these multimeters can measure direct current voltage, alternating current voltage, direct current, alternating current, resistance (Ω).
There are other additional functions, such as capacitance, frequency, temperature, etc. When using a multimeter, it’s important to set the correct mode before testing.
Avoid touching the metal tips of the probes. Never measure resistance or capacitance in a live circuit. This helps keep you safe and prevents damage to the meter.
What is the Capacitor Symbol on a Multimeter?
On a multimeter, the capacitor symbol is usually shown as two parallel lines or one straight line and one curved line. These symbols are similar to those used in circuit diagrams.
The two parallel lines represent the two plates of a capacitor. The gap between the two parallel lines represents the insulating material (dielectric material) inside the component.
The curved line often indicates the negative side of an electrolytic capacitor. It shows that polarity must be observed when testing.
The capacitor symbol on a multimeter is often marked with the letter “F”. It stands for Farad, which is the unit for measuring capacitance.
Depending on the model, you may also see smaller units like µF (microfarads) or nF (nanofarads). Different multimeter brands may display the symbol in slightly different ways. But they all indicates the capacitance testing mode.
Turning the dial to this symbol allows the multimeter to measure a capacitor’s ability to store electrical charge. At the same time, we can also determine whether the capacitor is working properly.
How to Find the Capacitor Symbol on a Multimeter?
Steps to Find the Capacitor Symbol:
-
1Look at the Selection Dial
The dial is the large, round switch in the center of the multimeter. It has many symbols around its edge.
-
2Search for the Main Symbol
Scan the dial for the capacitor symbol, which is two lines separated by a gap. The most common version looks like this: -|(- (One straight line and one curved line)
-
3Look for the Letter 'F'
Since capacitance is measured in Farads (F), the setting is often marked with the letter F, nF (nanofarad), or µF (microfarad). The capacitor symbol is usually right next to this letter.
-
4Check Near the Resistance Setting
Typically, the capacitor setting and the resistance (ohm) setting (using the Ω symbol) share the same knob position. If you see Ω and a smaller symbol like -|(- on the same dial position, that is the correct position
-
5Use the Function Button
If the setting is shared (like with the Ω symbol), you will need to:
- Turn the dial to that shared position.
- Press a "Function" (FUNC) or "Mode" button repeatedly until the symbol -|(- or the letter F appears on the multimeter's screen. This tells you it is now in capacitance mode.
What if my multimeter doesn't have this symbol?
Many older or very basic multimeters do not have a special setting for testing capacitors. On these models, you cannot find the symbol. Because the function does not exist. You would need to use a different method to test a capacitor.
How to Use the Capacitor Setting on a Multimeter?
To measure capacitors with a multimeter, follow these steps:
Safety first
Before you touch a capacitor, especially one from a powered device, you must make sure it is completely discharged.
A capacitor can hold a dangerous electrical shock even when the device is unplugged. For small capacitors, you can safely discharge them by touching both metal legs while holding the plastic handle.
1. Prepare the Capacitor and Multimeter
- Discharge the capacitor.
- If the capacitor is in a circuit, it is best to remove one of its legs from the circuit board for an accurate measurement. Testing it while it's still connected to other components can give a wrong reading.
- Turn your multimeter on.
2. Set the Multimeter to Capacitance Mode
- Turn the dial to the capacitor symbol -|(-.
- If your multimeter has multiple ranges (like 200nF, 2µF, 200µF), choose a range that is higher than the capacitor's value. If you don't know the value, start with the highest range.
- If the setting is shared with resistance (Ω), press the "Function" (FUNC) button until the display shows "F" or the capacitor symbol.
3. Connect the Test Probes
- Insert the multimeter's test probes into the correct ports. Usually, the black probe goes to COM (common), and the red probe goes to the port for measuring Volts/Ohms (often labeled VΩ).
- For a non-polarized capacitor (a common small, often ceramic capacitor): It doesn't matter which way you connect the red and black probes. Touch a probe to each of the capacitor's two metal legs.
- For a polarized capacitor (a larger, barrel-shaped electrolytic capacitor): This type has a positive (+) and a negative (-) leg. The negative leg is usually marked with a grey stripe with minus (-) signs.
>>Connect the red multimeter probe to the positive (+) leg of the capacitor.
>>Connect the black multimeter probe to the negative (-) leg.
4. Read the Measurement
- Hold the probes steadily on the capacitor legs. The multimeter will send a small charge through the capacitor and measure how long it takes to charge.
- After a few seconds, the measurement value will stabilize on the screen. This number is the capacitance, shown in Farads (F), microfarads (µF), or nanofarads (nF).
How to Understand the Result?
- Good Capacitor: The reading on the multimeter should be very close to the capacitance value printed on the side of the capacitor (e.g., a capacitor labeled "100µF" might read "102µF"). A small variation is normal.
- Bad Capacitor (Open): The multimeter will show "OL" (Over Limit) or a "0" reading. This means the capacitor is dead and cannot hold a charge.
- Bad Capacitor (Shortened): The multimeter will show a very, very low reading (like 0.5µF on a 100µF capacitor) or may beep as if the probes are touching. This means the capacitor is broken inside.
Common Mistakes When Measuring Capacitors with Multimeters
When measuring capacitors with a multimeter, you may encounter the following common problems:
Not discharging the capacitor
Testing a charged capacitor can give false readings and may damage the multimeter or cause a shock. Always discharge the capacitor before measuring.
Using the wrong setting
Setting the multimeter to voltage, resistance, or current instead of capacitance will not give the correct reading. Make sure the dial is on the capacitor symbol (F).
Ignoring polarity on electrolytic capacitors
Electrolytic capacitors have positive terminal and negative terminal. Reversing the probes can give incorrect readings or even damage the capacitor.
Measuring in-circuit capacitors
Other components in the electronic circuit can affect the reading. Always measure capacitors out of the circuit for accuracy.
Assuming small fluctuations are bad
Some multimeters may show minor changes in readings while the capacitor stabilizes. Don’t panic—wait a moment for the value to settle.
Not considering tolerance
Capacitors have a tolerance range. A reading slightly different from the rated value may still be normal. Check the capacitor’s specifications.
Understanding the capacitor symbols and their correct usage on a multimeter can make capacitor testing easier and safer.
By understanding the location of the symbols, correctly setting up the multimeter, and following the correct testing procedures, you can quickly check whether a capacitor is working properly or needs to be replaced.
Avoiding common mistakes, such as measuring a charged or in-circuit capacitor, ensures accurate readings and protects both you and your multimeter. With these skills, anyone can confidently test capacitors and maintain electronic devices effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the symbol for a capacitor on a multimeter?
The symbol for a capacitor on a multimeter is –|(–. It consists of a vertical line, a vertical line followed by a right-pointing bracket, and a horizontal line passing through them.
What do I set my multimeter to check a capacitor?
To test a capacitor, set your multimeter to the capacitance setting. The capacitance is usually represented by a capacitor symbol |( or the letter "C".
What is the symbol for a capacitor?
A fixed capacitor symbol is two parallel lines. While a variable capacitor is represented by two parallel lines with an arrow or curved line between them.
What does a microfarad symbol look like on a multimeter?
On a multimeter, the microfarad symbol is typically represented as μF. The "μ" stands for micro and "F" is the unit symbol for farads.
How to identify a capacitor?
A capacitor can be identified by its two parallel leads and a labeled capacitance value (e.g., in μF or pF) on its body.
What is capacitance on a multimeter?
On a multimeter, capacitance is the ability of a capacitor to store electrical charge. The unit of capacitance is farads (F), microfarads (μF), or nanofarads (nF), depending on the capacitor's value.
How accurate are multimeter capacitor tests?
Digital multimeters equipped with dedicated capacitance meters are highly accurate within their standard ranges. Analog multimeters using resistance mode can only provide rough estimates.
How do I know if my capacitor is bad?
Capacitor shows no capacitance reading on a multimeter. Additionally, it has physical signs like bulging or leakage, or fails to hold a charge when tested. These signs indicates the capacitor is likely bad.
Are capacitors AC or DC?
Capacitors can be used in both AC and DC circuits. The polarized capacitors are typically for DC, while non-polarized types work for both AC and DC.
What happens if you connect a capacitor backward?
Connecting a polarized capacitor backward can cause overheating, leakage, or explosion. Non-polarized capacitors are unaffected by connection direction.
Read More:
What is the DC Voltage Symbol on a Multimeter?
What is the Alternating Current Symbol on a Multimeter?
The Ultimate Guide to Multimeter Symbols and How to Use Them
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