Microhenry vs. Henry: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 29, 2024
A microhenry (μH) is a unit of inductance equal to one-millionth of a henry, while a henry (H) is the standard unit of inductance in the International System of Units (SI).
Key Differences
A microhenry (μH) is a derived unit of inductance in the International System of Units (SI), representing one-millionth of a henry (H). It is commonly used in electronics to measure small inductance values in components like coils and transformers. On the other hand, a henry (H) is the base unit of inductance in the SI system, representing a much larger value, typically used for inductors in power applications and larger-scale electrical systems.
The microhenry is often used when dealing with high-frequency circuits or small inductors where precise measurement of small inductances is crucial. Conversely, the henry is used in low-frequency circuits or applications requiring larger inductors, where the inductance values are significantly higher.
In practical terms, an inductor rated in microhenries might be found in radio frequency circuits or compact electronic devices. In contrast, inductors rated in henries are more likely to be found in power supplies, transformers, or industrial electrical systems due to their ability to handle larger currents and inductance.
When it comes to notation, the microhenry is denoted by the symbol μH, where "μ" stands for "micro," indicating a factor of 10^-6. The henry is denoted by the symbol H, without any prefix, representing the standard unit of inductance. This clear distinction in notation helps engineers and technicians quickly identify and differentiate between the two.
In terms of practical applications, a typical use case for a microhenry would be in fine-tuning the frequency response of a circuit. On the other hand, a henry might be used in the design of transformers or inductive loads in power systems, where higher inductance values are necessary for efficient operation.
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Comparison Chart
Unit Definition
One-millionth of a henry
Standard unit of inductance
Symbol
μH
H
Typical Application
High-frequency circuits, small inductors
Power applications, transformers
Usage Frequency
Common in electronics and RF circuits
Common in power and industrial systems
Inductance Range
Small inductance values
Large inductance values
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Microhenry and Henry Definitions
Microhenry
Unit of inductance equal to one-millionth of a henry.
The inductor in this radio circuit has an inductance of 10 μH.
Henry
Denoted by the symbol H.
The datasheet lists the inductance as 3 H.
Microhenry
Denoted by the symbol μH.
The schematic shows an inductor marked as 0.1 μH.
Henry
Common in low-frequency and power circuits.
The solenoid requires an inductance of 0.75 H.
Microhenry
Suitable for high-frequency applications.
The antenna's matching network includes a 2 μH inductor.
Henry
Used for large inductance values.
This choke coil has an inductance of 0.5 H.
Microhenry
Commonly used for small inductance values in electronic components.
The microcontroller requires a 5 μH inductor for stable operation.
Henry
Suitable for power applications and industrial systems.
The power supply filter uses a 2 H inductor.
Microhenry
Utilized in precision tuning circuits.
Adjust the 1 μH inductor to fine-tune the signal frequency.
Henry
The SI unit of inductance, equal to the inductance of a conductor in which an electromotive force of one volt is induced when the current through the conductor increases at the rate of one ampere per second. See Table at measurement.
Microhenry
A unit of electrical inductance, one millionth of a henry.
Henry
In the International System of Units, the derived unit of electrical inductance; the inductance induced in a circuit by a rate of change of current of one ampere per second and a resulting electromotive force of one volt. Symbol: H
Henry
A turd.
Henry
A quantity of marijuana weighing one-eighth of an ounce.
Henry
The unit of electric induction; the induction in a circuit when the electro-motive force induced in this circuit is one volt, while the inducing current varies at the rate of one ampère a second.
Henry
A unit of inductance in which an induced electromotive force of one volt is produced when the current is varied at the rate of one ampere per second
Henry
English chemist who studied the quantities of gas absorbed by water at different temperatures and under different pressures (1775-1836)
Henry
A leader of the American Revolution and a famous orator who spoke out against British rule of the American colonies (1736-1799)
Henry
United States physicist who studied electromagnetic phenomena (1791-1878)
Henry
The SI unit of inductance.
The transformer has a primary inductance of 1 H.
FAQs
How are microhenries used in electronics?
Microhenries are used to measure small inductances in components like coils and transformers in high-frequency circuits.
Where are henries typically used?
Henries are used in power applications and industrial systems where larger inductances are required.
What is a microhenry?
A microhenry (μH) is a unit of inductance equal to one-millionth of a henry.
What is a henry?
A henry (H) is the SI unit of inductance.
What symbol represents microhenry?
The symbol for microhenry is μH.
Why is the distinction between μH and H important?
The distinction is important for identifying the correct component for a specific application based on inductance value.
What kind of circuits use henries?
Power supplies, transformers, and industrial circuits use henries.
How is henry written in scientific notation?
A henry is written as 1 H.
Can microhenries be converted to henries?
Yes, 1 μH equals 0.000001 H.
What symbol represents henry?
The symbol for henry is H.
What kind of circuits use microhenries?
High-frequency circuits and precision tuning circuits use microhenries.
What is an example of a device using henries?
A transformer in a power supply uses henries.
How do microhenries and henries differ in application?
Microhenries are for small, high-frequency applications, while henries are for large, power applications.
How is microhenry written in scientific notation?
A microhenry is written as 10^-6 henries.
Why are microhenries used in high-frequency circuits?
They provide precise measurement of small inductances required in high-frequency applications.
Why are henries used in power applications?
They handle larger currents and inductance values needed in power systems.
How are inductors rated in microhenries marked?
They are marked with the μH symbol.
What is an example of a device using microhenries?
A radio circuit uses microhenries for tuning.
How are inductors rated in henries marked?
They are marked with the H symbol.
Can henries be converted to microhenries?
Yes, 1 H equals 1,000,000 μH.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
