can I substitute a film cam with a non-polar electrolytic?

[GuitarTek86]

trying to build a pedal that requires a 1uf cap, and all I have are non-polarized, polarized, or freaking massive 250v. would I be able to use the non-polarized?

[John Lyons]

In most cases yes.

[R.G.]

+1

The differences between film and NP are that NP, being electrolytic, has a poor tolerance and degrades over time. If it's just blocking DC for signal, it may be good enough for use forever. If it's being used as a frequency-selective filter, the poor tolerance/wide spread in value and drift with temperature of the electro may make things sound off.  Use what you got if it might work; get the perfect thing later when you have a chance.

I was doing a microcontroller setup today, and found that my supply of 4MHz crystals was gone. No hope for anyplace in town, and Mouser won't ship til Monday at best. I found an 8MHz crystal in a dead smart thermostat. Worked OK. Now I can spend the REST of my weekend working on software bugs. 

[iccaros]

+1

The differences between film and NP are that NP, being electrolytic, has a poor tolerance and degrades over time. If it's just blocking DC for signal, it may be good enough for use forever. If it's being used as a frequency-selective filter, the poor tolerance/wide spread in value and drift with temperature of the electro may make things sound off.  Use what you got if it might work; get the perfect thing later when you have a chance.

I was doing a microcontroller setup today, and found that my supply of 4MHz crystals was gone. No hope for anyplace in town, and Mouser won't ship til Monday at best. I found an 8MHz crystal in a dead smart thermostat. Worked OK. Now I can spend the REST of my weekend working on software bugs. 

I can send you some 4mhz if you need them... I have a several from when I was programming PIC's for work. nice project encrypting IR.. but anyways have not used them, PM if you need them, no charge..

[R.G.]

Thanks - but that's OK. I can get them by Tuesday. Mouser delivers next day here.

I just was dizzy enough not to put them on the order.  It was a weekend, and I had to find **something**. 

No electronic widget is safe from me when I need parts.