RS Australia offers a comprehensive range of fixed value resistors to suit various applications, including surface mount, through-hole, and panel mount resistors. Source from leading brands such as TE Connectivity, Vishay, Arcol, Panasonic and many more to ensure reliable performance and quality.
What is a Fixed Resistor?
A resistor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance within a circuit element. Resistors are available in fixed or variable types. Fixed resistors are the most commonly used resistors and are also one of the most used electronic components overall. Like many electronic components, resistors are available in various sizes, capacities, and types, and each has substantial differences in typical values for resistor noise, tolerances, wattage rating, temperature coefficient, voltage coefficient, frequency response, size, and reliability.
Types of Fixed Value Resistors
Fixed resistors are available in several types, each with distinct characteristics and applications:
Carbon Composition Resistors
- Constructed from a mixture of carbon and filler materials.
- Offer low cost and wide availability.
- Suitable for general-purpose applications with moderate power requirements.
- Can exhibit higher noise levels and wider tolerances compared to other types.
- Made by depositing a thin carbon film onto a ceramic rod.
- Provide better stability and lower noise compared to carbon composition resistors.
- Widely used in consumer electronics and general-purpose applications.
Metal Film Resistors
- Constructed by depositing a thin metal film onto a ceramic substrate.
- Offer excellent precision, stability, and low noise.
- Ideal for applications requiring high accuracy and stability, such as instrumentation and audio equipment.
- Made by winding a resistive wire around a ceramic core.
- Provide high power ratings and excellent stability.
- Suitable for high-power applications, such as power supplies and motor controls.
The Difference Between Fixed and Variable Resistors
While both essential components in electronics, fixed and variable resistors serve distinct purposes in circuit design:
- Fixed Resistors: These resistors have a predetermined, unchanging resistance value. This stability ensures consistent and predictable performance across varying temperatures, operating voltages, and time. Fixed resistors are ideal for applications where precise resistance values are critical, such as voltage dividers, current limiting, and signal conditioning.
- Variable Resistors (Potentiometers): These resistors offer adjustable resistance within a specified range. Their resistance can be manually changed using a rotating shaft or slider, allowing for fine-tuning of circuits and control of parameters like volume, speed, or brightness. Variable resistors find common use in audio equipment, lighting controls, and motor speed controllers.
Functions of Fixed Resistors
Fixed resistors perform a variety of essential functions in electronic circuits:
- Protect Components: Limit current flow to prevent damage to sensitive components.
- Control Time Delay: Create time delays in circuits, such as in oscillators or timers.
- Divide Voltage: Divide voltage between different parts of a circuit, providing specific voltage levels for various components.
- Adjust Signal Levels: Attenuate or amplify signals to achieve desired levels in audio and communication circuits.
- Bias Active Elements: Provide biassing voltage for transistors and other active devices, ensuring proper operation.
- Terminate Transmission Lines: Prevent signal reflections and improve signal integrity in high-frequency applications.
Industrial Applications of Fixed Resistors
Fixed resistors are vital components across a diverse range of industrial sectors, contributing to the smooth operation, safety, and efficiency of various systems and processes.
- Discrete Manufacturing: Fixed resistors ensure precise control and protection of electronic circuits within industrial machinery, robotics, and automation systems. They regulate current flow, divide voltages, and provide stable biassing for various components.
- Process Manufacturing: In process industries, fixed resistors ensure accurate measurement and monitoring of critical process parameters like temperature, pressure, and flow. They contribute to industrial electrical safety by limiting current and protecting sensitive electronics from damage.
- Energy & Utilities: The energy and utilities sector relies heavily on fixed resistors for various critical functions. They are used for current sensing and measurement in power distribution networks, voltage division and referencing in power electronics, and load balancing and power control in renewable energy systems.
- Facilities & Intralogistics: Fixed resistors regulate current and voltage levels for optimal performance and energy efficiency. They also play a role in sensor interfaces and signal conditioning in building automation systems and provide safety and protection circuits in material handling equipment.
Trusted Resistor Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Australia
RS is a leading supplier and distributor of resistors in Australia. We offer a vast selection of high-quality resistors, including fixed resistors, from renowned brands like Vishay, TE Connectivity, Arcol, and more, catering to a wide range of industrial and electronic applications. Browse our extensive online catalogue to find the perfect resistor for your needs.
Buy Fixed Resistor from RS
RS Australia offers swift delivery of fixed resistors and other passive components like aluminium capacitors. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery page.
