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1398 Views 2 Replies Latest reply: May 7, 2013 2:06 PM by JimHarrison RSS
joshmenasco Novice
joshmenasco
Currently Being Moderated

Apr 5, 2013 5:43 PM

resistor

how can i tell 1 resistor from another in a circuit. some look the same, but there not. Can metal film be subed for other 1,s.

  • WayneT Novice
    WayneT
    11 posts since
    Nov 20, 2012
    Currently Being Moderated
    May 1, 2013 10:14 AM (in response to joshmenasco)
    resistor

    Determining what value a resistor is will depend on if it is a surface mount or through type.  If it is a through hole type you should be able to determine its value based on the color of the rings on the body. And on surface mount resistors the resistance value should be printed on the resistor it self if it is a large enough for printing.  And for most purposes the composition of the resistor will not matter unless you need a specific temperature coefficient. Check out this resistor calculator http://www.digikey.com/us/en/mkt/4-band-resistors.html

  • JimHarrison Apprentice
    JimHarrison
    70 posts since
    Sep 9, 2011
    Currently Being Moderated
    May 7, 2013 2:06 PM (in response to joshmenasco)
    resistor

    I will add, there are three main and one somewhat less important specifications you must pay attention to for resistors. Resistance Value, Power Rating (¼ Watt for example), Precision (1% or 5%, for example), and Temperature Coefficient (PPM/°C). Of course there is also the package and physical size. For small SMT resistors, you may have to unsolder it and measure the value with a multi-meter.

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