Resistor Technology and Applications – Blog
High Energy Resistor – Selection Criteria
In high voltage and power applications, resistors are often used as circuit protection elements. As such, they must continue to perform when subjected to overload, inrush. surge or pulse events. A high energy resistor is one possible solution. In this post, we discuss...
Ceramic vs Thick Film Power Resistors – A Comparison
In this post, we compare the performance of ceramic vs thick film resistors in power applications. We cover the construction of each type of resistor before comparing their electrical performance characteristics. Resistor construction comparison Although ceramic...
Low VCR High Voltage Resistors In Specialist Applications
It is important to choose a low VCR value for high voltage resistors used in precision applications. These include measurement systems, divider circuits, power supply control circuits and high stability power supplies. In this post, we define VCR and discuss the...
Thick Film Resistors In Harsh Environments
Thick film resistors are often required to operate in harsh environments. These include downhole applications, military applications, low-temperature environments and many industrial plant applications. In this post, we cover the impact harsh environments can have on...
Choosing a High Power Pulse Resistor
High power switching can cause surge or pulse conditions. A high power pulse resistor is often used to suppress the pulse and prevent damage to sensitive components. Applications for pulse resistors include power supplies (inrush current), Defibrillators, welding...
Thick Film High Voltage Resistor Specification Limits
Choosing a thick film high voltage resistor always involves compromises. Rarely is the perfect fit for the application available as a standard product. In this post, we consider the key elements of a high voltage resistor specification. The main factors that limit...
Thick Film Resistor Noise
In some applications the noise generated when current flows through a thick film resistor can cause serious system errors. In this post, we consider the source of resistor noise and how it can be minimised. What Is Electrical Noise Electrical noise is an electrical...
Network resistor Application Limitations
Network resistors are used in a wide range of applications from relatively simple pull up/pull- down resistors and terminating resistors to matched resistors. In some applications, resistors with a variety of resistance values may be incorporated on the same...
What Causes A Thick Film Resistor To Degrade Over Time?
Many environmental and electrical factors can cause the performance of a thick film resistor to degrade over time. To avoid compromising system performance it is important to be aware of the issues and to manage them appropriately. In many applications resistance...
High Voltage Resistors In Voltage Divider Applications
The purpose of a voltage divider is to convert a high voltage into a related low voltage. The basic voltage divider circuit consists of two resistors connected in series. With the input voltage (high) connected across the resistor terminals, the output (low) voltage...
Thick Film Flip Chip Surface Mount Resistors
Thick film surface mount resistors (chip resistors) are used in high quantities in an extensive range of electronic equipment. Applications range from the simplest consumer product to ultra high reliability Space qualified equipment. The majority of thick film surface...
The Thick Film Resistor Manufacturing Process
The thick film resistor manufacturing process can directly impact resistor performance parameters. These include resistor value, tolerance, temperature coefficient of resistance, drift and power rating. The Perfect Resistor A perfect resistor will have a constant...