Resistor Dictionary, Terms, and Definitions

Resistor Terms:

'A', 'B/C', 'D/E', 'F-M', 'N', 'P', 'R', 'S', 'T', 'V'

Phenolic Molded Resistor: A synthetic thermosetting resins such as Bakelite, obtained by the reaction of phenols with simple aldehydes and used to make molded products, as in a resistor shell.

Photocell: A light-controlled variable resistor which has a light-to-dark resistance ratio of 1:1000.

Potentiometer: A variable resistor. Designed for frequent changes, a volume control. The output of a Potentiometer is a voltage that is variable depending upon the position of the wiper contact. The potentiometer is commonly referred to as a variable voltage divider. It, in effect, converts mechanical information into an electrical signal.Companies that Manufacturer Potentiometers

Power Rating: The maximum power the device can dissipate with out damage at some defined ambient temperature. Resistor Derating must occur to allow the device to operate at higher temperatures. Maximum power dissipation normally occurs as the resistor package increases in size.

PTC: (Positive Temperature Coefficient) Thermistor, the resistance will increase as temperature does.