High power resistors are often used in high-end audio and car audio amplifiers.
They are also used in industrial and medical applications, among others.
These resistors are expensive, which is why investing in one isn’t an easy decision.
However, it’s not impossible either.
What Are High Power Resistors? High power resistors are used when you need more resistance from a given amount of current.
The higher the resistance value, the more current it can safely handle.
If you plan to use your high power resistor for something other than just testing or casual use, then it’s best to buy a lower power version as well.
What to Consider When Buying a High Power Resistor?
There are some things you need to consider while buying a high power resistor.
These include power ratings, resistance range, price, and etc.
If you aren’t sure about any of these, then you can always ask the seller or find detailed information about high power resistors on the internet.
With that said, let’s take a look at what you need to know before buying a high power resistor.
– High Power Resistors vs Low Power Resistors There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the difference between low power resistors and high power resistors.
This is because both types of resistors have the same basic function — to resist the flow of current — and are used for different applications.
The confusion arises because both high power resistors and low power resistors are used in high-end audio amplifiers.
But high power resistors are used for other applications too.
– Power Ratings of High Power Resistors The power rating of a resistor indicates its resistance per volt.
In other words, it tells you how much power your circuit can handle.
This is important, especially if you want to use your high power resistor in an amplifier or radio.
If your amplifier can’t handle the maximum voltage your circuit produces, it won’t work properly.
So, how do you choose the right power rating for your high power resistor? There are a few things to keep in mind.
First, is your circuit a power amplifier or a power supply? Secondly, how much current will your circuit generate? And thirdly, what is the voltage your circuit will be powering? If you know all these things, then you can choose a high power resistor accordingly.
– Resistance Range of High Power Resistors Every resistor has a resistance rating, but not all resistors have the same range of resistance.
In order to buy the right resistor for your application, you need to know its resistance range.
With high power resistors, the resistance range is usually between 150 Ω and 2 MΩ.
But the exact range depends on the value of the resistor you’re buying.
This range is enough to power any kind of electronic system, from car audio amplifiers to power supplies.
– Price of High Power Resistors High power resistors are not cheap, so it’s important to know the price before buying one.
You can usually find this information on the web or in product specifications.
If possible, try to buy a high power resistor in person.
This way, you can verify that it’s the right value and do a quick check to ensure there are no problems with the packaging.
Types of Resistors for High Power Applications
As mentioned, high power resistors are used when you need more resistance from a given amount of current.
There are many types of high power resistors, each designed for specific applications.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the most common types.
– Carbon Film Resistors Carbon film resistors are the highest power resistors available.
These resistors are made from carbon, a material that is extremely resistant to heat.
Carbon film resistors are used in high-power applications, such as power supplies and car amplifiers.
And since they are made from carbon, they are extremely durable, making them suitable for harsh environments.
– Metal Film Resistors Metal film resistors are similar to carbon film resistors in terms of resistance, but they have a lower power rating.
Metal film resistors are used in applications where a low resistance rating is important, like precision power supplies.
– Mixed Resistances Resistors with a combination of resistances are high power resistors.
These resistors are usually a combination of carbon film, metal film, and ceramic.
Mixed resistances are usually used in precision applications where a high resistance rating is needed, like power supplies and test equipment.
– Wirewound Resistors Wirewound resistors are used as high power resistors.
These resistors are made from a metal wire that’s wound around a core.
Like mixed resistor types, wirewound resistors have a combination of resistance values.
Eleni resistors
Eleni resistors are a type of high power resistor that are designed to handle high voltage applications.
These resistors are designed to withstand extremely high voltages and are usually used in power transmission lines.
Since they are designed to handle extreme voltages, they usually have a high resistance rating.
Choosing a Resistor Value
When choosing a high power resistor, you need to keep a few things in mind.
These include the power rating of your circuit, the voltage of the circuit, and the resistance range of the circuit.
If possible, try to pick up the high power resistor in person.
This way, you can verify that it’s the right value.
And if you can’t, you can use a resistor test kit to check the values of the resistor.
You can also use a voltmeter to measure the voltage of your circuit.
This way, you can verify that the circuit is drawing enough power from the resistor.
Wrapping the Resistor in Tape or Ceramic
We all know that resistors get hot when they’re working.
You can minimize this by applying heat sinks to high power resistors or wrapping them in tape.
This makes the resistor more stable and prevents it from getting too hot.
High power resistors that are wrapped in tape usually have ceramic bodies.
This is because ceramic has excellent heat conductivity.
Usually, you can tell if a resistor is wrapped in tape or ceramic because the sticker on the label will indicate which.
Wrapping the Resistor in Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Film
High power resistors that are wrapped in PET film are usually high power resistors that are placed in power supplies.
These resistors are usually a combination of carbon film, metal film, and ceramic.
If you want to protect your high power resistor from damage, you can wrap it in PET film.
This will prevent mechanical damage and make the resistor more durable.
Conclusion
High power resistors are expensive, which is why investing in one isn’t easy.
However, it’s not impossible either.
There are many things you need to consider before buying a high power resistor, like power ratings, resistance range, price, and etc.
If you’re not sure about any of these, then you can always ask the seller or find detailed information about high power resistors on the internet.