Dissipation factor (DF) is a measure of the power loss traveling through a capacitor in the form of heat due to I²R losses. Therefore, the dissipation factor could be considered a critical characteristic in MLCCs. DF is defined as the ratio of the ESR to capacitive reactance, which is also known as the “tangent of loss” angle, and is expressed in percentage (%). Practically speaking, DF is the ratio of the dissipated power loss in the MLCC versus the applied power. As mentioned first, DF is a percentage of power loss. Since Class 2 MLCCs have capacitance and ESR changes versus temperature and voltage, this can impact the measurement of dissipation factor. In order to ensure or validate that the ceramic capacitor is between specifications according to its manufacturer, there are some industry standards that show the parameters needed in order to get the correct measurements based on the Dielectric Class of the MLCC and its capacitance value, as shown in this table. Every KEMET part number has a part specification sheet that shows the dissipation factor specification as well as measurement conditions.