Resistor Terms:
Resistor Definitions
'A', 'B', 'C', 'D/E', 'F-L', 'M', 'N', 'O', 'P', 'R', 'S', 'T', 'V-Z'
Damping Resistor: Low value resistors used in series with the line [output of an IC] to Damp out line reflections. Low value resistors to slow the rise time of an output to reduce signal reflections on the line. [Definition of Series Termination]
Decade Values The available values for a resistor series that are common for each increase in decade. For example a 15 ohm resistor would change to 150, 1500 and so on with each decade increase. A standard 10 to 100 decade list is shown lower right.
Delta Network: See Pi network.
DPAK: A two or 3-terminal Surface Mount Device (SMD), Two surface mount leads form the resistor while the square body acts as a heat sink. Five and 7-lead DPAKs are also common, as is D2PAK and D3PAK. Example D2PAK. |
 DPAK Resistor |
Derating: The process of reducing the rated wattage of a resistor based on the possible maximum operating temperature. Guide Lines to derating a resistor.
Dielectric Strength: The ultimate breakdown voltage of the dielectric or insulation of the resistor when the voltage is applied between the case and all terminals tied together.
Digital Resistor: A semiconductor resistor. Manufacturers of Semiconductor Resistors. Digital or semiconductor resistors may also be called Digital Potentiometers or DACPOTs for Digital-to-Analog Potentiometer as there resistance can be changed by a digital input.
DIP Package: Dual In-Line package. A DIP package is used to hold a resistor array or resistor network. Types of Resistor Network Packages.
DIP Package
Dummy Load: A resistor used to terminate a line. A Dummy load is normally found as a removable device or component and inserted during test or debug. Definition of Dummy Load with graphics.
EIA: A trade organization representing the United States high technology community, sponsoring technical standards.
Electronic Potentiometer. A semiconductor resistor that is programmable. [Manufacturers of Active Resistors]
Encapsulation: A plastic protective coating applied to a component. The plastic determines the color, finish and hardness of the finished part. Note that the type of encapsulation may effect the resistors power rating; refer to Resistor Encapsulation.
End Cap: The connection between the resistor element itself and the leads that connect it into the circuit.
End Resistance: The resistance of a variable resistor when measured from one end terminal and the wiper, when the wiper is adjusted to one extreme end of the range.
Equivalent Resistance: A resistance that represents the total ohmic values of a circuit component or group of circuit components. Usually drawn as a single resistor in a simplified circuit.
ESD: Electrostatic Discharge. A transfer of electrostatic charge between objects at different potentials which could damage the resistor via static damage. Refer to the full ESD definition.
Established Reliability: A term used in U.S. military specifications and standards to indicate failure rates for resistors. However Commercial grade, military grade, and military Established Reliability (ER) grade resistors are physically and functionally identical with the exception of failure rate levels. These failure rate levels can vary by orders of magnitude. Also refer to Non-Established Reliability.
