what causes a resistor to burn

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Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Discription: General Mobile Electronics Questions and Answers
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=48520
Printed Date: May 16, 2024 at 1:07 PM

Topic: what causes a resistor to burn

Posted By: webxfx
Subject: what causes a resistor to burn
Date Posted: January 24, 2005 at 8:37 PM

yes this might sound dumb, but as the title said - what causes a resistor to burn?

Replies:

Posted By: auex
Date Posted: January 24, 2005 at 9:16 PM

Resistors are components that resist the flow of electrical current. When electricity encounters resistance, the electricity is converted into heat/light. Think of it as friction. You rub your hand against something that is smooth your hand feels fine. You rub your hand against jeans your hand feels heat.

Someone else can probably explain it a little better.

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Posted By: DDexter
Date Posted: January 24, 2005 at 9:46 PM

Resistors have a power rating (typ watts) ... Exceed that power, and the resistor will burn. (similat to how a fuse gets blown)

Posted By: webxfx
Date Posted: January 25, 2005 at 7:24 AM

DDexter wrote:

Resistors have a power rating (typ watts) ... Exceed that power, and the resistor will burn. (similat to how a fuse gets blown)

Got it - so would a fuse help, so I stop blowing resistors?

Posted By: misterjimbo
Date Posted: January 25, 2005 at 10:11 AM

yes and no. you will stop bburning resistors and start blowing fuses. you need to get a resistor with a higher current handling rating.

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Posted By: RobG35
Date Posted: January 27, 2005 at 2:40 PM

What is the value of the resistor?

Where is it used?

How much current is being drawn?

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Rob Urbanek