What are the Types of Resistors?
In electronic circuits, the resistor is an essential component. It is a passive electrical device that resists or manages the flow of current in the circuit. Resistors are used to connect different electrical components, to limit current flow, and to adjust the voltage level. There are different types of resistorsdifferent types of resistors available in the market, and each of them has its own specifications and unique features. Let's dive into the different types of resistors and their uses.
Fixed Resistor.
A fixed resistor has a constant resistance value, and it cannot be changed. It is the most common type of resistor. Fixed resistors are made up of different materials such as carbon, metal, and wire-wound resistors. However, the carbon-based resistor is the most commonly used and affordable. Fixed resistors are used as a voltage divider, to limit the current flow, and to protect electrical components from overloading.
Variable Resistor.
Unlike fixed resistors, variable resistors allow the resistance value to be adjusted. There are two types of variable resistors- potentiometers and rheostats. A potentiometer is a three-terminal device used in electronic circuits and allows for variable resistance. Potentiometers are used as volume controls, brightness controls on TV, radio receivers, and many other electronic devices. A rheostat is used as a variable current limiter, and it is a two-terminal device. Rheostats are widely used in heating and lighting applications.
Thermistor.
A thermistor is a type of resistor whose resistance changes in response to a change in temperature. They are primarily used in temperature sensing applications and temperature compensation circuits. Thermistors are available in two types- positive temperature coefficient (PTC) and negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors. A PTC thermistor's resistance increases as the temperature rises, while an NTC thermistor's resistance decreases as the temperature rises.
Photoresistor.
A photoresistor is a resistor whose resistance value changes when light is incident upon it. They are also known as light-dependent resistors (LDR). It is a passive component that is widely used in light sensitive devices, such as cameras and smoke detectors. Photoresistors are made of high resistance semiconductor materials and can detect both visible and infrared light.
Film Resistor.
A film resistor is a type of resistor that uses a thin film of metal or carbon deposited onto a ceramic substrate. They are available in different accuracy levels and have low inductance and capacitance values, making them ideal for high-frequency applications. They are widely used in electronic devices, such as computers, power supplies, and audio equipment.
Conclusion.
In conclusion, resistors are a crucial electronic component, and different types of resistors are used for different applications. Fixed and variable resistors are the most common type of resistor, while thermistors, photoresistors, and film resistors are used in specialized applications. Each type of resistor has its own specifications and features, making it essential to choose the right resistor for the intended application to get the desired result.
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