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Resistors

Resistors are a fundamental circuit component. All resistors are passive—they only dissipate power and never provide power. A resistor will permit a current to flow through itself when a voltage is present across its two terminals. The current is calculated via Ohm's law: V = IR. For a given voltage, a resistor with a larger value will produce less current than a resistor with a smaller value. Some amount of resistance is always present in any practical conductor.
Resistors have countless uses. A resistor can be used to limit the current flow through a diode. Resistors can be used to terminate a transmission line and prevent reflections. Two resistors can be used to create a voltage divider that produces an output voltage proportional the resistance values. Resistors can add damping to an underdamped RLC circuit. A general-purpose input/output (GPIO) transceiver can have its output set by a large pull-up or pull-down resistor that is overridden when the GPIO becomes active.
Resistors come in many values, shapes, and physical sizes. Consumer electronics require small and precise resistors. In high-speed applications, minimizing parasitic inductance and capacitance is important. Industrial applications may require resistors capable of dissipating large amounts of power, so naturally these resistors end up being larger. There are also many technologies for creating resistors: carbon composite, carbon film, metal film, and wire wound.

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Research & Events

Current-Sensing Resistors Enable Accurate Measurements

Employing a unique four-terminal configuration, these components eliminate the voltage drops that would otherwise hamper accurate current measurement.

One year ago

Taking Apart the Ohm's Law Triangle

Understanding Ohm's Law; where it came from and how to use it.

One month ago

How to Read Resistor Color Codes

Learn to decode the resistor color codes.

One month ago

Designing with Resistors in Series or Parallel

Discover when it is appropriate to use resistors either in series or parallel

23 days ago

Resistor Specifications Revealed By Banded Codes

Understanding the color-code system of resistors.

One year ago

Product Roundup - Fixed Single-Surface Mount Resistors

An overview of fixed single-surface mount resistors.

One year ago

Ultra-Thin Membrane Potentiometers Shine in Tight Spaces

Lighter and cheaper than their mechanical counterparts, these versatile devices are key components in mobile devices.

One year ago

In Harsh Environments, Resistors Stand Up To Adversity

One year ago
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