What Is the Origin of the Capacitor? From the Leyden Jar to MLCC

 

 

There’s a tiny component found in almost every electronic device we use every day: the capacitor. It stores and releases electrical energy temporarily, playing a vital role in power management and signal integrity. But where did it come from? Today, we’ll explore the invention and evolution of the capacitor from the 18th century to the present.

 

 

1. Birth of the Capacitor: The Discovery of the Leyden Jar

In 1745, Pieter van Musschenbroek of Leiden University in the Netherlands accidentally invented a device that could store static electricity: the Leyden jar. Using a glass jar filled with water and coated with metal foil, this setup could hold a significant electric charge—becoming the first known capacitor.

2. The Rise of the “Condenser” and Its Role

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the term “condenser” was used to describe this device because it “condensed” or collected electric charge. It was widely used in static electricity experiments, voltage testing, and even stage demonstrations. Famous figures like Benjamin Franklin utilized Leyden jars for pivotal discoveries.

 

 

3. 20th Century: Industrialization and Capacitor Diversification

With industrial and electrical advancements in the 20th century, capacitors began to evolve rapidly. From paper-insulated types to aluminum electrolytic capacitors and ceramic capacitors, they became essential components in radios, TVs, and computers.

• Paper capacitors – Used in vacuum tube circuits
• Electrolytic capacitors – High-capacity, low-cost, ideal for power filtering
• Ceramic capacitors – Excellent for high-frequency circuits and miniaturization

4. MLCC: Symbol of High Performance and Miniaturization

Since the 1980s, Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs) have revolutionized electronics. Built by stacking hundreds or thousands of ceramic and metal layers, these compact devices offer high capacitance and reliability—perfect for smartphones, laptops, and EVs.

5. Supercapacitors and the Future

Recently, supercapacitors have gained attention for their ultra-fast charge/discharge capabilities and long lifespan. They are widely used in renewable energy systems, hybrid vehicles, and UPS backups. In the future, nanomaterials like graphene and carbon nanotubes will enable even more compact and powerful energy storage.

Capacitors are evolving to be smarter and more efficient, playing key roles in the future of electronics.

 

 

6. Conclusion: A Small Component That Changed Electrical History

The capacitor is much more than a simple energy storage device—it helped shape the history of electricity. From the Leyden jar of 1745 to modern MLCCs and supercapacitors, its applications now span everything from smartphones to power grids. The journey continues with flexible and nano-scale capacitors on the horizon.

7. Capacitor FAQ

• Q. Are “capacitor” and “condenser” the same?
  A. Yes. “Condenser” is an older term once widely used, while “capacitor” is the modern technical term used globally in electronics today.
• Q. What happens when a capacitor fails?
  A. Symptoms include power instability, noise in signals, or complete device malfunction.
• Q. How long does a capacitor last?
  A. It depends on type and temperature, but generally lasts thousands to tens of thousands of hours.