What is a resistor?

A resistor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that limits the flow of electric current, measured in ohms. Resistors can be found in nearly all electrical circuits and networks used to adjust signal levels, divide voltages, reduce current flow, bias active elements, terminate transmission lines and more. Resistors were invented in 1959 by Otis Boykin.

Uses of resistors

Resistors are used in motors, LEDs, variable resistance, rheostats, Sankey diagrams or input and output energy applications. They can also be used as electric brakes, or in amplifiers, oscillators, telecommunication and digital multimeters.

Types of resistors

Resistors can be divided into two main types:

• Variable resistors:  The electrical resistance in these types of resistors can change with some physical variable.
• Fixed resistors: The electrical resistance of these types of resistors remains the same.

Some common kinds of resistors include Film Resistors, MELF Resistors, Carbon Composition Resistors, Wire-wound Resistors, etc. 

On the basis of films, resistors can be further divided into:

• Thick Film Resistors
• Thin Film Resistors
• Metal Film Resistors

Common industry applications of resistors

Resistors are used in a wide range of applications including everything from port crane control applications, ships and harbours, transport and drive control, renewable energy, power dispersion, plant development, as well as test and research laboratory technologies.