Search the Design+Encyclopedia:

Resistors


From Design+Encyclopedia, the free encyclopedia on good design, art, architecture, creativity, engineering and innovation.
393818

Resistors

A resistor is an electrical component that is used to resist the flow of electric current. It is a passive component, which means that it does not require any external power source to function. Resistors are commonly used in electronic circuits to control the amount of current that flows through the circuit. They are also used to divide voltage, generate heat, and to provide a specific resistance value to a circuit. Resistors come in different shapes and sizes, and are made from a variety of materials such as carbon, metal, and ceramic. The resistance of a resistor is measured in ohms (Ω) and is determined by the material used, as well as the length and diameter of the resistor. The higher the resistance value, the more the resistor will resist the flow of current. In electronic circuits, resistors are often used in series or parallel configurations to achieve the desired resistance value. Series resistors are connected end-to-end, and the total resistance of the circuit is equal to the sum of the individual resistors. Parallel resistors are connected across each other, and the total resistance of the circuit is less than the resistance of the smallest resistor. Resistors also have a power rating, which is the maximum amount of power that the resistor can handle without overheating or burning out. The power rating is determined by the size and material of the resistor, and is measured in watts (W). Overall, resistors are an essential component in electronic circuits, and are used in a wide range of applications, from simple LED circuits to complex computer systems.

electrical component, passive, control, ohms, series, parallel, power rating, essential

— David Anderson


Resistors Definition

Resistors on Design+Encyclopedia

We have 220,822 Topics and 478,829 Entries and Resistors has 1 entries on Design+Encyclopedia. Design+Encyclopedia is a free encyclopedia, written collaboratively by designers, creators, artists, innovators and architects. Become a contributor and expand our knowledge on Resistors today.