Complete Guide to Buying a Thermistor

Your Guide to buying the best Thermistor

Overview

A thermistor is a temperature-sensing device used in a wide variety of applications. It is a temperature-sensitive resistor that changes its electrical resistance in response to temperature. This buying guide will provide an overview of the features and types of thermistors, and will help you find the right thermistor for your particular application. It will cover the different types of thermistors, their capabilities and limitations, and the considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right thermistor for your needs.

Key features

  1. Resistance - Resistance is the key factor in how a thermistor operates. Consider the required resistance range and the voltage and current that will be applied to the device when selecting a thermistor.
  2. Temperature Coefficient - Temperature coefficient is the rate of change of resistance versus temperature. The temperature coefficient is an important factor to consider, as it affects the thermistor’s response to a given temperature.
  3. Temperature Range - Select a thermistor with a temperature range that meets the application requirements. Depending on the application, the temperature range can range from -50°C to 600°C or higher.
  4. Tolerance - Select a thermistor with a tolerance that meets the application requirements. Tolerance affects the accuracy of the thermistor’s resistance and temperature coefficient values.
  5. Dimensions - The physical size of the thermistor should match the requirements of the application. Consider the size and shape of the thermistor when selecting a device.
  6. Mounting and Connections - Select a thermistor that has a mounting and connection style that meets the application requirements. The connection type and mounting options can range from simple wire leads to complex, custom components.

See the most popular Thermistor on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Accuracy: Thermistors are highly accurate temperature sensors, providing precise readings when measuring various temperatures.
  • Cost: Thermistors are relatively inexpensive compared to other temperature sensing technologies, making them a cost-effective option for many applications.
  • Size: Thermistors are small in size, allowing them to be utilized in tight or confined spaces.
  • Response Time: Thermistors are fast response devices, with a response time of a few milliseconds.
  • Robustness: Thermistors are robust and durable, with a long life expectancy when used in the right conditions.
  • Versatility: Thermistors are versatile, able to measure temperature in a wide range of conditions.

Cons

  • Accuracy - Thermistors may not be as accurate as other temperature sensing devices such as thermocouples.
  • Price - Thermistors are less expensive than other temperature sensing devices, but can still be quite costly when compared to other types of sensors.
  • Sensitivity - Thermistors are sensitive to both temperature changes and electrical current, which can lead to errors in readings.
  • Dynamic Range - Thermistors have a limited dynamic range of temperatures that they can measure accurately.
  • Slow Response Time - Thermistors can take a while to respond to temperature changes, especially in comparison to other types of sensors.

Best alternatives

  1. Resistive Temperature Device (RTD) - A device used to measure temperatures, typically consisting of a thin, resistive wire wound into a coil and attached to an insulating material
  2. Thermocouple - A device composed of two dissimilar metals joined together at one end, producing a voltage difference that is proportional to the temperature difference between its two ends
  3. Thermopile - A device used to measure infrared radiation, typically consisting of a stack of thermocouples connected in series
  4. Thermistor - A device composed of a ceramic or polymer-based material whose resistance changes sharply with temperature

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Thermistor Probe - A thermistor probe is a temperature sensing device typically used in measuring, controlling, and regulating temperature in both industrial and domestic settings.
  • Thermistor Sensor - A thermistor sensor is an electrical component that measures temperature and changes its resistance accordingly.
  • Thermistor Cable - Thermistor cables are used to connect thermistor sensors to various data acquisition systems.
  • Thermistor Amplifier - A thermistor amplifier is an active electronic device used to amplify the signals generated by thermistor sensors.
  • Thermistor Connectors - Thermistor connectors are used to connect thermistor sensors to thermistor cables.
  • Thermistor Network - A thermistor network is a series of thermistors connected in a specific pattern to create a larger sensor network.

Common questions

  1. What is a thermistor? A thermistor is a type of resistor whose resistance changes with temperature. It is typically made of semi-conductive material and is used to measure temperature in a wide variety of applications.
  2. How does a thermistor work? A thermistor works by using a change in temperature to alter the electrical resistance of the material. When the temperature increases, the electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases, and when the temperature decreases, the electrical resistance of the thermistor increases.
  3. What are the different types of thermistors? There are two main types of thermistors: negative temperature coefficient (NTC) and positive temperature coefficient (PTC). NTC thermistors have a resistance that decreases as temperature increases, while PTC thermistors have a resistance that increases as temperature increases.
  4. What are the advantages of using a thermistor? Thermistors have several advantages, including a fast response time, high accuracy, low cost, and a wide range of temperature measurement capabilities. They are also very reliable and can be used in a variety of applications.
  5. What are the disadvantages of using a thermistor? The main disadvantage of thermistors is that they are sensitive to temperature changes and must be adequately protected from environmental influences. Additionally, they are not as accurate at measuring extreme temperatures and may require calibration for certain applications.
  6. How can I select a thermistor for my application? Selecting a thermistor for your application requires careful consideration of the thermistor’s characteristics, such as its sensitivity, accuracy, temperature range, and other features. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the thermistor is compatible with the type of equipment or system it is being used with.

Trivia

A thermistor was the first electronic temperature sensor used in the Apollo space missions. It was used to monitor the temperature of the spacecraft and its components during the journey. It was so reliable that it was used during the moon landing mission in 1969. NASA even used thermistors to measure the temperatures of the astronauts’ spacesuits. Thermistors are still used in space by modern spacecraft and satellites. Source: Omega Engineering.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.