| Of the three basic qualities of an electrical or electronic | | | | the metals from other factors. If a wire is strained, its |
| circuit, resistance is extremely important since it | | | | functional integrity is often jeopardized. That is, the |
| regulates the flow of electrical current. Additionally, in | | | | metals cross sectional area sometimes diminishes. All |
| order to maintain this flow, temperatures within a circuit | | | | of these considerations must be made in the design |
| board or electronic device must be maintained. | | | | and manufacturing of resistors and RTDs. An RTD is |
| A resister that measures temperature in an electronic | | | | only as good as its ability to resist changes within the |
| part using the given resistance and temperature | | | | circuit. |
| relationship of the metals is known as a Resistance | | | | While there are several ways to make RTDs, it is |
| Temperature Detector (RTD). Such parts sense | | | | important to select a design that works for your unique |
| temperature and maintain balance within an electrical | | | | electrical component project. An electrical part is only |
| component. | | | | as good as the parts from which it is made. In order to |
| RTDs are often comprised of nickel alloy or platinum. | | | | select the best parts, it is important to understand the |
| Platinum is perhaps one of the most popular choices in | | | | technical intricacies of the design and what is required |
| RTDs because it is extremely stable and able to | | | | to make sure that electrical parts continue to function |
| withstand very high temperatures. Copper is another | | | | at optimum levels. For more information regarding |
| low-cost option but has a relatively low resistivity. | | | | RTDs or resistors, make sure to visit a trusted |
| The design and manufacturing of RTD products and | | | | distributor who understands the design and metal |
| resistors is sometimes difficult due to the stresses on | | | | material attributes necessary to function well. |