Resistor Terms:
'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 three terminal Surface Mount Device (SMD), Two surface mount leads form the resistor while the square body acts as a heat sink. |
 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.
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.
