What is a Chip Resistor? Introduction to SMD Resistors

What is a Chip Resistor? Introduction to SMD Resistors

 

　　A resistor is a passive component used to limit or regulate current, voltage, and circuit protection, among other functions. Depending on the method of installation and application, there are many different types of resistors; one common form familiar to most is the through-hole resistor (DIP resistor), which involves encasing the resistive element in a cylindrical shell and installing it through holes drilled into a PCB.

Image: Through-hole Installation Resistor

　　However, traditional through-hole resistors have some disadvantages, such as the need to drill holes in PCBs and difficulties with automated installation. They also occupy more space due to their larger size and leads—this is crucial in modern electronics design, as engineers strive to save valuable PCB space to achieve higher component density and develop smaller products. Therefore, to facilitate easier soldering and reduce space wastage, resistors have evolved into a surface-mounted form.

What is a Chip Resistor?

　　A chip resistor is a type of SMD resistor (Surface Mount Device) that uses surface mount technology. Due to its appearance and manufacturing process being similar to that of a chip, it is known as a chip resistor. Chip resistors are mainly manufactured by screen printing, as illustrated below: electrodes are first printed on the substrate, followed by the resistive element, and the resistance value is adjusted by laser trimming, finished with a protective layer and side electrodes.

Image: Chip Resistor Structure

　　This type of chip resistor is known as a thick film resistor and, due to its lower cost, is one of the most widely used resistors in electronic products. Another type, the thin film resistor, has a similar structure but differs in that the resistive layer is usually produced using a sputtering method and is much thinner. Due to lower tolerance, temperature coefficient, and noise production, thin film resistors are generally used in precision electronics such as medical and control devices, measurement equipment, and instrumentation.

 

　　Since chip resistors are produced via screen printing directly on entire substrate sheets, they are suitable for mass production and have lower production costs.

Image: Chip Resistor Production Line (Source: Ever Ohms, Taiwan)

Image: Packaged Chip Resistors

 

What are the Applications of Chip Resistors?

　　Due to their small size and ease of automated installation, chip resistors effectively reduce the PCB area and are often used in small-sized electronic products such as communication devices, mobile devices, and computers; if automotive-certified, they can also be used in automotive electronics.

Image: Chip Resistors Soldered on a Circuit Board (left and right sides)

 

　　Despite their wide applications, chip resistors have some disadvantages, such as relatively lower surge resistance and power handling capacity, which means they cannot completely replace through-hole resistors. There are also resistors that combine the features of both through-hole and chip resistors, known as MELF resistors, which we will introduce in another technical article. (Extended Reading: What is a MELF Resistor?)

Taiwan Chip Resistor Manufacturer - Ever Ohms

　　Taiwanese resistor manufacturer Ever Ohms specializes in the research and production of various resistors, including thin film, thick film, metal plate, and MELF resistors, with advantages such as high stability, low temperature coefficient, and surge resistance. Their quality is certified by ISO 9001, 14001, and automotive IATF 16949, offering a diverse product line applicable from mobile communications to automotive and energy sectors.

 

　　Horustech Electronics is an authorized distributor for Ever Ohms. If you have any related procurement needs, please contact us.

 
Source: Everohms



Intro Video: Introduction to Various Types of Resistors (Horustech Electronics Official YouTube Channel)