Mastering NTC vs PTC Thermistors: From Principles to Real-World Applications
Thermistors—short for "thermal resistors"—are temperature-sensitive semiconductor components that play vital roles in both electronics and everyday devices. In particular, NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) and PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) thermistors are widely used across industries. This post explores their working principles, structural differences, comparisons, and real-life applications in a clear and practical format. 1. What Is a Thermistor? A thermistor is a type of resistor whose resistance varies significantly with temperature. Thanks to their small size, low cost, and high sensitivity, thermistors are extensively used in control systems, consumer electronics, and automotive applications. 2. The Difference Between NTC and PTC Thermistors NTC Thermistor (Negative Temperature Coefficient): Resistance decreases as temperature increases. PTC Thermistor (Positive Temperature Coefficient): Resistance increases as tem...