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Overview

Similar to Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD), the Thermistor (Bulk Semiconductor Sensor) uses resistance to detect temperature. However, unlike an RTD's metal probe where the resistance increases with temperature, the thermistor uses ceramic semiconducting materials which respond inversely with temperature. Examples of thermistors are shown in the following schematic.

Typical Thermistors

Typical thermistor sensors can measure temperatures across the range of -40 ~ 150 ±0.35 °C (-40 ~ 302 ±0.63 °F). The shape of the thermistor probe can take the form of a bead, washer, disk, or rod as illustrated in the above figure. Typical operation resistances are in the kW range, although the actual resistance may range from several MW to several W.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
  - High accuracy, ~±0.02 °C (±0.36°F), better than RTDs, much better than thermocouples.
  - High sensitivity, ~10 times better than RTDs, much better than thermocouples. As a result, lead wire and self-heating errors are negligible.
  - Small in size compared to thermocouples.
  - Response time shorter than RTDs, about the same as thermocouples.
  - Reasonable long term stability and repeatability.
  • Cons:
  - Limited temperature range, typically -100 ~ 150 °C (-148 ~ 302 °F).
  - Nonlinear resistance-temperature relationship, unlike RTDs which have a very linear relationship.
3D Scanners

A white paper to assist in the evaluation of 3D scanning hardware solutions.

CNC Machining Design Guide

Optimize your designs, reduce machining time, and lower your costs.

Negotiate Your Salary

Learn the best principles to negotiate the salary you deserve!

Essentials of Manufacturing

Information, coverage of important developments and expert commentary in manufacturing.