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RADAR systems may be complex but their operation relies on a range of relatively simple resistor components. Resistors are used in pulse forming, sensing, switching, current limiting and RF termination applications, among others.

In the late 1800’s Heinrick Hertz proved that radio waves travel in a straight line and are reflected by a metal object. In RADAR equipment a pulse of high frequency radiation is emitted, based on the time and direction of the returning pulse the distance and direction of a metallic object may be calculated.

Resistor networks are found in many applications including resistor divider (precision amplifier) circuits, measurement systems, test equipment and industrial automation. The most common application is relatively simple pull up / pull down resistor arrays but for more complex circuits including matched resistors or specialist, application specific, devices a high degree of resistor network manufacturing and design expertise is required.

When designing any electronic system there are compromises to be made in component selection. This extends to what may be perceived as the simplest components including resistors and capacitors. In this post, we consider typical thick film resistor design and application issues the system designer needs to consider.

The Perfect Resistor

High voltage resistor devices are available to a wide range of quality standards. It is important for the designer to understand the trade-off between cost and reliability of the resistor device and to fully understand the application if resistor failure is to be avoided.