120K Ohms (1/4 Watt) Resistor

Introduction

The 120K Ohms (1/4 Watt) resistor is a widely used passive electronic component that offers reliable performance in controlling current, reducing voltage, and protecting sensitive circuit elements. With a resistance value of 120,000 Ohms, this resistor is ideal for various low-power circuits where accurate current regulation is needed.

Key Specifications

• Resistance Value: 120,000 Ohms (120K Ohms)
• Power Rating: 1/4 Watt (250 mW)
• Tolerance: Commonly available in ±5% and ±1% for high precision
• Temperature Coefficient: Typically ±100 to ±200 ppm/°C for stable performance under changing temperatures

Construction and Design

The 120K Ohms resistor is built using either metal film, carbon film, or metal oxide construction, ensuring durability and precision. Its compact cylindrical shape is marked with color bands representing the resistance value and tolerance, making identification straightforward. With axial leads for through-hole mounting, it is suited for use on printed circuit boards (PCBs) or breadboards in various electronic projects.

Applications

This resistor is suitable for a variety of electronic and electrical applications due to its moderate resistance and low power rating. Common uses include:

• Voltage Dividers: In voltage divider circuits, the 120K Ohms resistor is used to reduce or scale down voltage to levels suitable for sensitive components, such as sensors and microcontrollers.
• Signal Conditioning: This resistor is often used in signal conditioning circuits to maintain stable signal levels, ensuring accurate data transfer in communication systems.
• Pull-Up/Pull-Down Resistors: In digital electronics, it is used to ensure stable logic levels and prevent floating inputs in microcontroller or logic gate circuits.
• Current Limiting: The 120K Ohms resistor helps regulate current flow in LED circuits or other sensitive devices, protecting them from overcurrent.
• Biasing Transistors: It is commonly employed in transistor circuits to set the biasing levels and ensure the proper functioning of transistors in amplification and switching applications.

Advantages

• High Precision: Available with low tolerance (±1%) for applications requiring accurate resistance values, ensuring stable performance in precision circuits.
• Thermal Stability: Designed to perform reliably under varying temperature conditions, the 120K Ohms resistor maintains consistent resistance even in environments with temperature fluctuations.
• Durable Construction: Built with robust materials, the resistor is designed for long-term use in a variety of applications, ensuring it can withstand environmental and operational stresses.
• Compact Form Factor: The small size of the resistor makes it ideal for dense PCB layouts, where space is limited, without sacrificing performance.

Common Applications

• Analog and Digital Circuits: Used in both analog and digital applications for signal filtering, biasing, and current limiting, ensuring optimal circuit operation.
• Audio Circuits: The 120K Ohms resistor is often found in audio signal processing circuits where it helps maintain signal integrity and reduce noise.
• Sensor Interfaces: Ideal for use in sensor circuits to adjust signal levels for input into microcontrollers or analog-to-digital converters, ensuring accurate readings.
• LED Drivers: Used to limit current in LED circuits, protecting LEDs from excess current while maintaining desired brightness levels.

Conclusion

The 120K Ohms (1/4 Watt) resistor is a highly reliable and versatile component, essential in many electronic applications. Its precision, durability, and adaptability make it a perfect choice for use in voltage dividers, signal conditioning, and current-limiting applications. Whether for professional projects or hobbyist designs, this resistor ensures stable performance, making it an indispensable component for various circuits.

120K Ohms (1/2 Watt) Resistor: Precision and Power Efficiency (Pack of 5)