Solid State Capacitors (Caps)

[Reloadron]

OK, since I didn't want to derail another thread I decided to start my own thread seeking a simple answer to a question:

What exactly is a "Solid State Capacitor"?

Now I understand what a capacitor is and how a capacitor works. I understand the dielectrics used in capacitors. I understand a capacitor is a "passive" device (component). I likely know more about capacitors and their composition than I care to know.

I am also familiar with the term "Solid State" as it pertains to electrical/electronic components. I understand that.

Now what I don't quite get is the term "Solid State" associated with a Capacitor.

Yes, I Googled. I see plenty of reference to the term, but I still draw a blank as to what the hell a solid state cap is? What the hell am I missing?

Ron

[theburan]

I think solid state caps use a solid organic polymer or something similar. So it's all solid, instead of a liquid based cap. As far as I Know, they are called solid state just because it's not liquid tilled.

[Reloadron]

Originally Posted by theburan

I think solid state caps use a solid organic polymer or something similar. So it's all solid, instead of a liquid based cap. As far as I Know, they are called solid state just because it's not liquid tilled.

Yeah, that ran with my thoughts based on a few Googles. Maybe "Solid State" had a better ring than dry caps.

Years ago before the dielectric used really evolved a cap consisted of two strips of aluminum foil with a strip of wax paper between them and rolled up. The outside was wrapped in paper and dipped in wax. Then as things evolved plastics, polymers, and other things were used for dielectrics and the entire thing was encapsulated in newer plastics or PVC.

Granted, that they are replacing the liquid and gel type dielectrics with new stuff solid in nature but it just seems ironic the name chosen. Looking at things that way it's like caps were solid state for a hundred years and now they are back to being solid state.

Ron

[Capper]

Basically, its just a matter of better power efficiency and durability.....solid caps became a big issue after Abit and a few other companies had issues with bursting capacitors a few years back.

[Parker]

I don't know much about solid caps... but I do know the difference between regular caps and solid state caps.

Regular caps bend or brake off easier and get hotter.

Solid State caps down bend or brake off as easy due to the base being on the PCB, they also have aluminum around them which helps with cooling.

[onebxr]

I am surprised Parker hasn't said this, but can we have a picture of a SS capacitor and a regular capacitor. Or do they look the same?
-1

[Parker]

Originally Posted by onebxr

I am surprised Parker hasn't said this, but can we have a picture of a SS capacitor and a regular capacitor. Or do they look the same?
-1

Haha, some Regular Capacitor's:


And a Solid State Capacitor:


Here are both types together (note: the ones with arrows pointing at them are popped capacitors):

[onebxr]

Thanks parker.

[Reloadron]

Thanks to all, and Parker thanks for the images. The term was just something I was curious about. Suddenly I am seeing the term Solid State associated with a cap and curiosity grew.

Ron

[garetjax]

Here's food for thought. When the hell is EVGA going to produce an nVidia based motherboard that uses solid capacitors? For the amount of money that they charge for their 680i and 780i enthusiast boards, you would think they'd have gone with solid caps on them. It's a bit annoying to see people shelling out $250-$300 for a 780i motherboard by EVGA that still uses the old school capacitors, where ASUS has been using solid caps in nearly all their motherboard offerings for a very long time.

Granted, EVGA will be releasing the 780i FTW which promises solid capacitors, but, of course, you will also be paying extra to have that privilege. Bah.