Principle
A PTC resistor or PTC thermistor (positive temperature coefficient thermistor) is a temperature-dependent resistor that belongs to the group of thermistors. Its main characteristic is a positive temperature coefficient, therefore conducting electricity better at low temperatures than at high temperatures.
Tasks
- Build a circuit with a PTC resistor.
- Heat the resistor using their own heat and external heating.
- Determine the resistance values at different currents and temperatures.
Learning objectives
The students understand that the resistance of a PTC resistor increases with increasing temperature. They learn the difference between self-heating and external heating and deepen their understanding of the temperature dependence of the PTC resistor.
Advantages
- No additional cable connections required between the components - clearer and faster assembly
- Contact reliability thanks to interlocking components
- Hard gold-plated, corrosion-resistant contacts
- Double learning success: electrical circuit diagram visible on the top side and real components on the bottom side