Saturday, November 20, 2010

Resistor Types

By Peter Enmore


Resistors are an integral part of electricity and are so common that they are often taken for granted. Resistors operate under the principle of Ohm's Law which applies the theory that a current running through a conductor from point A to point B is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points.

Simply stated, Ohm's law is three mathematical equations that make up the relationship between voltage, current, and electricity. Using these equations, it is then possible to work them together to illustrate the difference that is called the voltage drop.

The composition resistor is one of the most common resistor types. Of the composition resistors available, the carbon resistor is the most widely used. They are relatively inexpensive and serve many purposes. Their resistance comes from a finely ground carbon dust mixed with graphite, bound by a non-conductive clay powder. The mixture is molded into a cylindrical shape with metal wires attached at both ends to provide the electrical connection and coated with an outer insulation material. Composition resistors are classified as low to medium power resistors with makes them the perfect candidate for high frequency use. However, noise and stability complications can arise from heat when using for a longer period of time.

Film resistors are made of metal film, carbon film and metal oxide film resistor types. In general, they are manufactured using pure metals which are deposited into an insulated ceramic rod. This resistor allows for closer tolerance resistance when comparing it to a more simple carbon composition resistor. These resistors have a higher ohmic value as well as much stronger temperature stability in comparison to their carbon counterpart. They produce less noise which makes them a more attractive option for high frequency applications.

Wire-wound resistors are prepared by winding a thin metal alloy wire over a ceramic former in a spiral form. It is somewhat similar to the film resistor as they both are meant for handling higher electrical currents than other types of resistors. Wire-wound resistors are mounted easily onto metal plates and heatsinks. This increases their ability to hold up against heat and will increase their capabilities.




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