Types of resistors | Tech | Matsusada Precision

Published: 2019-03-28, Update: 2025-07-01, M.P.

Carbon Film Resistors

Carbon film resistors, often simply called "carbon resistors," use a baked carbon-based film as the resistive element. They are low-cost and available in a wide range of resistance values. However, their temperature coefficient is not very stable, making them unsuitable for applications requiring high precision. Due to their excellent balance of cost and performance, carbon film resistors have become a mainstream choice for general-purpose applications.

Solid Resistors (Composition Resistors)

Solid resistors, also known as composition resistors, use a mixture of a carbon-based resistive material and ceramic, which is kneaded and baked to form the resistive element. A key feature of these resistors is their robustness, allowing them to be used in harsh conditions. They can be manufactured in ultra-small sizes, such as 1/16 W types, and cover a wide range of resistance values. However, in terms of cost and overall performance, carbon film resistors are often superior.

Metal Film Resistors

There are two main types of metal film resistors: thick-film types, which use a fired metal-based paste as the resistive element, and thin-film types, which use a metal vapor deposition film. They offer relatively high accuracy (around ±1%) and better overall characteristics than carbon film resistors. However, they are somewhat more expensive, typically costing two to three times as much.

Metal Oxide Film Resistors

Metal oxide film resistors use a resistive element made from a film of metal oxides. They are inexpensive and commonly used in applications requiring intermediate power handling, typically around several watts. Their temperature characteristics (at about ±350 ppm/°C) are inferior to those of metal film resistors.

Wire-Wound and Cement Resistors

Wire-wound resistors are constructed by winding a thin metal wire around a ceramic bobbin. Because this structure is similar to that of a coil, these resistors exhibit inductance, which should be considered in high-frequency circuits. Cement resistors are a type of wire-wound resistor housed in a ceramic case filled with cement. This construction provides excellent heat dissipation and durability, making them suitable for high-power applications.

Resistor Networks

A resistor network is a composite component that integrates several resistors into a single package. The advantages include a reduced component count, simplified assembly, and the ability to achieve high-density mounting on printed circuit boards.

Semi-Fixed Resistors (Trimmers)

A semi-fixed resistor, or trimmer, is a type of variable resistor intended for adjustment during manufacturing or circuit calibration. It can be set to a specific resistance value by turning an adjustment screw.