Principle and Applications of Thermistors

Working Principle: Based on the thermal resistance effect of semiconductors, temperature changes will significantly alter its resistance value (Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) resistors decrease in resistance as temperature rises, while Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) resistors experience a sharp increase in resistance with temperature elevation). Essentially, temperature affects the carrier concentration and mobility.

   Core Applications:  

   • Temperature Measurement/Monitoring: Temperature sensing in home appliances (air conditioners, refrigerators), industrial equipment, and medical thermometers.  

   • Overcurrent/Overheating Protection: PTC is used for over-temperature power cutoff in circuits, batteries, and motors; NTC suppresses inrush current during device startup.  

   • Temperature Compensation: Offset the temperature drift of other components in the circuit to ensure the accuracy of instruments and communication equipment.