High-reliability chip resistors can provide reliable and repeatable pulse handling behaviour for automotive applications.
RCPA is a series of automotive-grade pulse-withstanding chip resistors from Stackpole. The RPCA has limited to no calibration trim, providing reliable and repeatable pulse handling behaviour. These resistors are highly reliable and are AEC-Q200 qualified which makes them suitable for use in harsh automotive conditions. The resistors are suitable for use in applications which requires high durability and long-term reliability such as motor controls, thermostats and oven controls, etc.
High-reliability chip resistors can with pulse handling requirements are difficult to find. Typically, the manufacturing process for thick film chip resistors allows for variation in the calibration trim, leading to variation in pulse handling performance. Pulse-withstanding chip resistors are designed to maximize the usable width of the resistive element. This design greatly reduces or completely eliminates the hot spot on the resistor where current crowding occurs. That is the principal weak point and main limiting factor in the pulse handling for chip resistors.
According to the company, the RPCA series addresses the shortcomings of regular resistors. The RPCA has limited to no calibration trim, providing reliable and repeatable pulse handling behaviour. The RPCA are suitable for use in automotive applications, small appliances, electric hand tools, welding equipment, industrial equipment, etc.
