Different Types of Resistors
When constructing electronic equipment, resistors serve as components that provide electrical resistance. With their ability to adjust signal levels, reduce current flow, divide voltages, and more, resistors assist in operations and further ensure equipment protection from volatile current. As a common aspect of electrical networks, resistors may come in a variety of types in order to accommodate different system needs. In this blog, we will discuss the various common resistor components, allowing you to better understand their uses and applications.
Generally speaking, resistors may be categorized in two groups, those being fixed resistors and variable resistors. Fixed resistors serve as the most common of the two, allowing for currents to be handled efficiently by electronic circuits. As compared to the variable resistor type, fixed resistors are not used to adjust the circuit itself. While there are a variety of fixed resistor types available on the market, the most common are those such as the wire wound resistor, carbon film resistor, metal film resistor, and carbon composition resistor.
The wire wound resistor is a type that is often used for high power applications, and it consists of a highly resistant wire wrapped around a ceramic, plastic, or fiberglass core. By encapsulating the resistor in a layer of paint, plastic, or enamel, the component can be further protected from the environment. Generally, wire wound resistors can withstand temperatures of up to 450 degrees Celsius, that of which is abnormally high for other types. Additionally, heat sinks may be used to dissipate heat in higher power applications as needed. Due to the method of their construction, however, such resistors are not recommended for operations above low frequencies.
The carbon film resistor serves as one of the oldest types, and it is manufactured by cracking a hydrocarbon onto a ceramic insulating substrate. By adjusting the shape of the component, the carbon film resistor can exhibit a wide range of resistance values that benefit varying applications. Due to its low noise during operation, the carbon film resistor serves many RF applications well.
Metal film resistors are a type that is often coated with nickel chromium, and their resistance is dictated by the helix that is cut through their coating. As such, the metal film resistor provides a fair tolerance and temperature coefficient during operations. Additionally, their optimal noise characteristics and low voltage coefficients make them a desirable resistor type for long-term stability. When there is a need for a leaded resistor within an electronic circuit, the metal film resistor is the most common choice.
The carbon composition resistor was once the most widely used type, though it has now been superseded by various newer resistors. For its construction, carbon powder is mixed into a binder, and a small rod may be produced with the use of a resin. To protect the body of the component, paint or plastic is typically added. Due to their non-inductive properties, carbon composition resistors benefit surge protection and voltage pulse reduction applications. While they may not be as widely used as they were in their early days, carbon composition resistors still serve various power supplies and welding controls, as well as may be used to repair vintage electronics.
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