Thermistors

A thermistor is a type of temperature sensor whose resistance changes significantly with temperature. It’s made from semiconductor materials that are highly sensitive to temperature variations. There are two main types: NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistors, where resistance decreases as temperature increases, and PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) thermistors, where resistance increases with temperature. Thermistors are commonly used in applications requiring precise temperature monitoring and control, such as HVAC systems, medical devices, automotive electronics, and consumer appliances. They are valued for their accuracy, fast response time, and compact size.

NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistors decrease in resistance as temperature rises, making them ideal for temperature sensing and measurement. They’re commonly used in thermostats, digital thermometers, and rechargeable battery packs. PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) thermistors, on the other hand, increase in resistance with higher temperatures and are often used for circuit protection or self-regulating heating elements. Essentially, NTCs are better for measuring temperature, while PTCs are more suited for controlling or limiting current. The choice between the two depends on the application’s temperature range and function.