Resistor Dictionary, Terms, and Definitions

Resistor Terms:

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

Reostat: A variable resistor. A three terminal potentiometer which only uses two terminals. A variable resistor used for the purpose of adjusting the current in a circuit. The material used determines the Variable Resistor's operational range [temperature and wattage]. The material may be; Carbon composition, Resistive wire [Wirewound], Conductive Plastic, and Cermet [a mixture of ceramic and metal].

Resistance: The opposition a device or material offers to the flow of current. The effect of resistance is to raise the temperature of the material or device carrying the current. A circuit element designed to offer a predetermined resistance to current flow. A resistance of 1 ohm will allow a current of 1 ampere to flow through it when a potential of 1 volt is applied.

Resistivity: The reciprocal of conductivity.

Resistor Tolerance: The permissible deviation of the manufactured resistance value (expressed in percent) from the specified nominal resistance value at standard (or stated) environmental conditions. Definition of Resistor Tolerance

Resistor: The electrical component that offers resistance to the flow of current. It may be a coil of fine wire or a composition rod. Resistor Manufacturers

RHO. Greek letter "rho" (.). Used in the field of electricity and electronics to represent the specific resistance of a substance.