How important is that little "v"?

[urowinner]

Hello all,

I'm a DIY noob and am still learning the ropes. I'm pretty sure the addiction is setting in though, because I just ordered my first PCB (sabretooth) and parts for it at PPP last night. Without receiving or building anything, I'm already envisioning the next three I want to build.

I was able to find everything I needed for the Sabretooth at PPP. At least I think so. I know almost nothing about electronics.

My question is about the caps. In the PDF, it says to use:
Xicon General or Hi­Temp radial electrolytic caps, 25v

but the only 47uf cap I was able to find on PPP is:
Xicon Radial Electrolytic Capacitor 16v 47uf 20%       2         $0.15         $0.30

Will this work? I ordered it, but if I need to look somewhere else to find one that is 25 v, not 16v, then I will do it. I'd really like to start out on the best foot by using the right components.

thanks!

[jkokura]

It will work just fine!

The V indicates the Voltage that a given capacitor can handle. Most pedals only ever get fed 9V, so having a 16V cap is MORE than enough. However, if you decide to try running your pedal using 18V, the 16V capacitor may become a problem then. Google 'exploding capacitor' to see what I mean.

Just run your pedal at 15V or less (9V is common) and you'll be fine.

Jacob