Types of Thermistors

NTC Thermistors are non-linear resistors, which alter their resistance characteristics with temperature. The resistance of NTC will decrease as the temperature increases. The manner in which the resistance decreases is related to a constant known in the electronics industry as beta, or ß.

What are PTC thermistors? PTC stands for „Positive Temperature Coefficient“. PTC thermistors are resistors with a positive temperature coefficient, which means that the resistance increases with increasing temperature.. PTC thermistors are divided into two groups, based on the materials used, their structure and the manufacturing process.

Resistance thermometers, also called resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), are sensors used to measure temperature. Many RTD elements consist of a length of fine wire wrapped around a ceramic or glass core but other constructions are also used. The RTD wire is a pure material, typically platinum, nickel, or copper.

For the thermal control of electrical machines motor protection (PTC, NTC) thermistors, as well as (NTC) silicon sensors (KTY of the production series 83-1xx and 84-1xx), have stood the test at best.

A thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor, whilst a thermocouple generates a voltage proportional to the temperature. Thermocouples can work at much higher temperatures than thermistors. They are commonly used for temperature control in heating systems.