This instrument measures the undesirable flow of current through a capacitor’s dielectric when a voltage is applied. This flow, ideally zero, indicates imperfections or degradation within the capacitor’s insulating material. As an example, consider applying a constant voltage to a capacitor and observing a persistent, albeit small, current flow rather than a momentary charging current. This persistent current is the parameter being measured.
Accurate assessment of this parameter is vital for ensuring the reliability and performance of electronic circuits. Elevated levels can lead to energy loss, overheating, and ultimately, component failure. Historically, rudimentary methods were employed to estimate this characteristic, but advancements in electronics have necessitated precise measurement capabilities. The ability to accurately quantify this aspect significantly enhances quality control in capacitor manufacturing and enables proactive identification of potentially failing components in deployed systems.
