Editorial Technical Reference

Variable Capacitor

This page explains how Variable Capacitor is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A capacitor whose capacitance can be intentionally and repeatedly changed mechanically or electronically.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Variable Capacitor

Definition
A variable capacitor is an electronic component used in RF matching networks to adjust capacitance values, enabling impedance matching between RF sources and loads for optimal power transfer and signal integrity in high-frequency applications. This component type is classified under the Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing industry. It is a part-level component, meaning it is typically integrated into larger assemblies such as tuners, filters, or impedance matching networks. The capacitance can be varied either mechanically, by adjusting the overlap area of plates, or electronically, by applying a reverse bias voltage to a varactor diode. Common materials include aluminum, ceramic, and silicon, which influence performance and application suitability. Key parameters include a capacitance range of 1–100 pF (typical for air-gap types), a capacitance tolerance of ±5% at nominal capacitance, a rated voltage of 100–500 V DC, insulation resistance of ≥10 GΩ at 100 V DC, a temperature coefficient of ±50 ppm/°C over -25 to +85 °C, an operating temperature range of -25 to +85 °C (extended range available on request), a humidity range of 0–95% RH (non-condensing), ingress protection ratings of IP54–IP65 (sealed versions for harsh environments), air as the dielectric material (other dielectrics on request), rotor torque of 0.05–0.5 N·m for manual adjustment, a life expectancy of 10,000 mechanical rotations, and a weight of 10–50 g depending on size and material. These values are directory reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific model and application. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
Variable capacitors operate by changing the effective plate area or distance between plates. In mechanical types, rotating one set of plates changes overlap area. In electronic types (varactors), reverse bias voltage changes depletion region width, altering capacitance. This adjustable capacitance allows tuning of resonant circuits and impedance matching.
Common Materials
Aluminum, Ceramic, Silicon
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Capacitance Range1–100 pFTypical range for air-gap variable capacitors
Capacitance Tolerance±5 %At nominal capacitance
Rated Voltage100–500 V DCMaximum working voltage
Insulation Resistance≥10 At 100 V DC
Temperature Coefficient±50 ppm/°COver -25 to +85 °C
Operating Temperature Range-25–85 °CExtended range available on request
Humidity Range0–95 % RHNon-condensing
Ingress ProtectionIP54–IP65Sealed versions for harsh environmentsIEC 60529
Dielectric MaterialAirAir gap; other dielectrics on request
Rotor Torque0.05–0.5 N·mFor manual adjustment
Life Expectancy10000 cyclesMechanical rotations
Weight10–50 gDepends on size and material

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Rotor Plates Part
    Movable plates that rotate to change overlap area with stator plates
    Material: Aluminum
  • Stator Plates Part
    Fixed plates that form capacitor with rotor plates
    Material: Aluminum
  • Dielectric Part
    Insulating material between plates that determines capacitance characteristics
    Material: Air or Ceramic
  • Shaft and Bearing
    Mechanical assembly for smooth rotation and position control
    Material: Steel or Brass
  • Varactors Optional
    Semiconductor form whose capacitance is varied by reverse bias voltage.

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Variable Capacitor.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to 1 atm (not designed for pressure systems)
other spec: Capacitance range: 1 pF to 1000 pF (typical), Voltage rating: 50V to 500V DC, Frequency range: up to 1 GHz
temperature: -40°C to +125°C (typical for electronic variable capacitors)
Media Compatibility
✓ RF tuning circuits ✓ Oscillator frequency adjustment ✓ Impedance matching networks
Unsuitable: High-vibration or shock environments (mechanical movement sensitive)
Sizing Data Required
  • Required capacitance range (min/max)
  • Operating frequency
  • Voltage rating and Q-factor requirements

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Dielectric breakdown
Cause: Overvoltage stress, contamination (dust/moisture), or aging of dielectric material leading to insulation failure and short circuit.
Mechanical wear of moving parts
Cause: Friction, misalignment, or lack of lubrication in the rotor/stator plates or adjustment mechanism, causing erratic capacitance changes or binding.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible arcing or buzzing sounds during operation
  • Visible physical damage such as burnt marks, discoloration, or warping on the capacitor body or plates
Engineering Tips
  • Ensure proper voltage ratings and install overvoltage protection (e.g., surge suppressors) to prevent dielectric stress.
  • Regularly clean and lubricate mechanical components (if applicable), and verify alignment to reduce wear on moving parts.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
IEC 60384-1: Fixed capacitors for use in electronic equipment - Part 1: Generic specification IEC 60068-2-6: Environmental testing - Part 2-6: Tests - Test Fc: Vibration (sinusoidal) RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU: Restriction of Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Capacitance tolerance: ±10% to ±20% (typical for variable capacitors)
  • Rotation torque: 0.5 to 5 N·cm (depending on size and application)
Quality Inspection
  • Capacitance vs. Rotation Angle Test: Verify linearity and range of capacitance variation
  • Dielectric Withstanding Voltage Test: Ensure insulation breakdown voltage meets specifications

Manufacturers of Variable Capacitor

1 company lists this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Suntan
Hong Kong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Ceramic Trimmer Capacitors”
View source page ↗ suntan.com.hk · checked 2026-09-04

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical capacitance range for air-gap variable capacitors?

The typical capacitance range for air-gap variable capacitors is 1–100 pF, as listed in the directory reference. However, this range can vary depending on the specific model and application, so it is essential to confirm the exact range with the manufacturer.

How does a mechanical variable capacitor adjust capacitance?

A mechanical variable capacitor adjusts capacitance by rotating one set of plates to change the overlap area between the plates. This changes the effective plate area, thereby altering the capacitance value.

What is the rated voltage for these variable capacitors?

The rated voltage is listed as 100–500 V DC maximum working voltage. This is a reference range; the actual rated voltage for a specific model should be verified with the supplier.

What is the life expectancy of a variable capacitor?

The life expectancy is listed as 10,000 mechanical rotations for manual adjustment. This is a reference value and may vary based on operating conditions and model. Confirm with the manufacturer for your application.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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