## Overview of the ST202E104FART The **ST202E104FART** is a specialized electronic component, specifically a **Tantalum Capacitor** from the ST series, often utilized in high-reliability applications such as aerospace, defense, and medical electronics. It is designed to provide stable capacitance in harsh environments. --- ### 1. Component Specifications Below is a breakdown of the technical parameters typically associated with this part number: | Parameter | Specification | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Component Type** | Tantalum Capacitor | Wet or Solid Tantalum technology. | | **Capacitance** | 100 µF (104 code) | The "104" represents $10 \times 10^4$ pF. | | **Tolerance** | ±1% (F) | Extremely tight precision for critical circuits. | | **Voltage Rating** | 20V (202 prefix) | Maximum operating DC voltage. | | **Package / Case** | Axial or SMD | Depending on the specific series iteration. | | **Operating Temp** | -55°C to +125°C | Industrial/Military grade temperature range. | --- ### 2. Key Features The "ST" series is recognized for several distinct electronic characteristics: * **High Stability:** Tantalum capacitors offer much higher stability over time and temperature compared to aluminum electrolytic capacitors. * **Low ESR:** Designed with Low Equivalent Series Resistance to improve efficiency in power filtering. * **High Volumetric Efficiency:** Provides a large amount of capacitance in a relatively small physical footprint. * **Long Shelf Life:** Unlike wet electrolytic capacitors, these do not dry out, ensuring a long operational lifespan. --- ### 3. Part Number Breakdown (Nomenclature) Understanding the alphanumeric code helps in identifying the exact part: | Segment | Meaning | Detail | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **ST** | Series | High-reliability Tantalum series. | | **202** | Voltage | Represents the 20V rating. | | **E** | Dielectric/Case | Specific material or case size designator. | | **104** | Capacitance | 10 followed by 4 zeros in pF ($100,000$ pF = $100$ µF). | | **F** | Tolerance | F denotes $\pm1\%$. | | **ART** | Packaging/Testing | Usually refers to Tape & Reel or specific MIL-spec testing. | --- ### 4. Typical Applications * **Power Supply Filtering:** Decoupling and smoothing in DC/DC converters. * **Timing Circuits:** Due to the $\pm1\%$ tolerance, it is used where precise RC time constants are required. * **Aerospace Electronics:** Used in avionics where component failure is not an option. * **Medical Devices:** Used in implantable or diagnostic equipment requiring high reliability.